Cupe 116 Research Assistant Tech 2

Staff - Union

Job Category

CUPE 116

Job Profile

CUPE 116 Salaried - Research Assistant /Technician 2

Job Title

CUPE 116 Research Assistant Tech 2

Department

Taghipour, Fariborz | Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering | Faculty of Applied Science

Compensation Range

$4,426.00 - $4,845.00 CAD Monthly

Posting End Date

May 30, 2025

Note: Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on the Posting End Date.

Job End Date

Dec 13, 2025

At UBC, we believe that attracting and sustaining a diverse workforce is key to the successful pursuit of excellence in research, innovation, and learning for all faculty, staff and students. Our commitment to employment equity helps achieve inclusion and fairness, brings rich diversity to UBC as a workplace, and creates the necessary conditions for a rewarding career.

The department of Chemical & Biological Engineering at UBC - Vancouver is seeking a Research Assistant for Dr.Taghipour's lab.

This position is for a 6 months term, with the possibility of extension depending on the availability of research funding.

Job Summary

Organizational Status
This position reports directly to Dr. Taghipour. This position will work as part of Dr. Taghipour’s research team and collaborate closely with other researchers in the lab.

Work Performed- Conduct Experimental Research: Perform experimental synthesis of semiconductor materials, focusing on photo-activated material and solid solutions.- Material Synthesis and Characterization: Synthesize and characterize various photo-activated material using advanced techniques such as SEM-EDX, TEM, TGA, XRD, IR spectroscopy, and BET.- Prototype Development: Design and develop UV-activated gas sensor prototypes, including hardware design, sourcing components, and assembling sensors.- Laboratory and Field Testing: Evaluate sensor performance in laboratory settings and conduct field testing to validate sensor functionality.- Data Management and Analysis: Compile and analyze experimental data, comparing results with theoretical predictions to assess data quality.- Technical Documentation: Prepare detailed reports and contribute to scientific publications.- Operates, maintains, and troubleshoots standard laboratory equipment.- Organizes laboratory stock, maintains inventory, and distributes supplies as needed.- May assist in training and onboarding new staff and assigning tasks to employees at lower classification levels.- Performs other related duties as required in alignment with the qualifications and scope of the position.

Consequence of Error/Judgement
Works within well-defined guidelines and established procedures, exercising sound judgment in setting priorities and completing tasks efficiently. Unusual or complex issues are escalated to the supervisor. Errors in judgment or failure to follow protocols may impact the accuracy of research results, delay project timelines, or compromise laboratory operations.

Supervision Received
Works under general supervision in carrying out familiar phases of duties and responsibilities; receives instructions during orientation and on subsequent new assignments or changes in procedures.

Supervision Given
May distribute work assignments to employees at lower classification levels and initiate new employees into routines, procedures and operation of equipment.

Minimum Qualifications
High school graduation, some additional training in a related field and a minimum two years of related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Willingness to respect diverse perspectives, including perspectives in conflict with one’s own
- Demonstrates a commitment to enhancing one’s own awareness, knowledge, and skills related to equity, diversity, and inclusion

Preferred Qualifications- A Ph.D. or a Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry, or a closely related field. Technical Skills and Experience:
- Proven experience in the synthesis and characterization of semiconductor materials, particularly UV-activated semiconductors.- Proficiency in advanced material characterization techniques, including SEM-EDX, TEM, TGA, XRD, IR spectroscopy, and BET analysis.- Demonstrated ability to design and develop photo-activated sensor prototypes, with hands-on experience in hardware design.- Familiarity with sourcing, assembling, and troubleshooting sensor components or similar devices.- Experience with laboratory and field testing of sensors or similar devices, including performance evaluation.- Proficiency in data management, statistical analysis, and comparison of experimental results with theoretical predictions.

Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills:
- Strong analytical thinking with the ability to troubleshoot complex experimental issues.- Ability to independently design and execute experiments, ensuring accurate and reproducible results.

Communication and Documentation Skills:
- Proven experience in preparing detailed technical reports and contributing