Research Coordinator

**JOB DESCRIPTION**

**Posting #RI-25-021**

**Posting Period - May 8 to May 22, 2025**

**TITLE**:Research Coordinator**

Newborn Screening Ontario

**TERM**: Full Time (1.0 FTE); 1 year term with possibility of renewal

**SALARY**:$60,000 to $90,000 annually

**REPORTS TO**: Melanie Lacaria, Interim Molecular Laboratory Head, Newborn Screening Ontario

**POSITION**:New Position

Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute Inc. (“CHEO RI”) is the research arm of the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario - Ottawa Children’s Treatment Centre (“CHEO”) and an affiliated institute of the University of Ottawa. We acknowledge that Ottawa is built on un-ceded Algonquin Anishinabek territory. The Algonquin Anishinabek Nation have lived on this territory for millennia and we honour them and this land. Their culture and presence have nurtured and continue to nurture this land. CHEO RI also honours all First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples and their valuable past and present contributions to this land. CHEO is a beloved institution and workplace that is widely recognized for being an anchor in our community. CHEO RI works to create new knowledge and evidence to support CHEO in its provision of world-class care to our children. Our mission at CHEORI is to connect exceptional talent and technology in pursuit of life-changing research for every child, youth and family in our community and beyond.

**CHEO RI has an immediate requirement for a Research Coordinator.**

Newborn Screening Ontario (NSO) are developing high throughput whole genome sequencing protocols as part of a research study using whole genome sequencing on dried blood spots to expand newborn screening. The Research Coordinator will be responsible for the development of new laboratory NGS workflows, including establishment of library preparation methods on robotic instruments and developing SOPs for these methods, as well as the interpretation of genomic data. Finally, the Research Coordinator is expected to participate in additional relevant laboratory activities as they arise.

**RESPONSIBILITIES**

Under the general supervision of the Interim Molecular Laboratory Head, Newborn Screening Ontario, the Research Coordinator will:

- With the guidance of senior laboratory staff, research and develop a whole genome sequencing library preparation method
- Assist with programming library preparation methods onto liquid handling robotics, establishing and validating NGS robotics methods.
- Prepare whole genome libraries and sequence them on a NovaSeqX+ on an ongoing basis
- Participate in oversight and maintenance of the NovaSeqX+ instrument
- Communicate with study team including various medical specialists including Pediatricians, Medical Geneticists, Genetic Counsellors regarding sequencing/microarray technologies and variant interpretation
- Collaborate on the development of research ideas and write research proposals
- Conform to all laboratory safety regulations (as per the Occupational Health and Safety Act, CHEO corporate and/or departmental policies), and follow specific instructions of the designated safety officer
- Participate in ongoing professional development and continuous learning opportunities.
- Attend and contribute to staff meetings
- Participate in evaluation of products and processes, research projects and quality improvement initiatives
- Behave in accordance with all relevant policies, procedures, protocols and guidelines (e.g. CHEO (IS) policy, AC Diagnostics requirements)
- Perform other related duties as assigned by supervisor

**QUALIFICATIONS, SKILL AND ABILITIES**
- 5 years NGS laboratory experience using Illumina technology and sequencers (Essential)
- Experience with whole genome sequencing (preferred)
- PhD. in molecular biology and/or genetics (preferred)
- MSc. in molecular biology and/or genetics (Essential)
- Comprehensively use computer technology and lab equipment (Essential)
- Ability to ensure timely completion of tasks by adjusting priorities as required (Essential)
- Adapt to changes required in order to meet laboratory needs (Essential)
- Communicate effectively, respectfully and concisely, both orally and in writing (Essential)
- Effectively use interpersonal skills (Essential)
- Bilingual (French / English) (preferred)

**WORKING CONDITIONS**
- Laboratory work within hospital as well as flexibility to work remotely in a hybrid work model that would include both remote work and on-site work.

**OTHER REQUIREMENTS**
- Eligible to work in Canada;
- Compliance with CHEO RI’s Universal COVID-19 Vaccination Policy; and
- Police Record Check.

**TO APPLY**

CHEO Research Institute does not use artificial intelligence during the selection and recruitment process.

Worksite, unless otherwise indicated, will be at 401 Smyth Road, Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8L1. Applications will only be considered from those that are eligible to work in Canada. We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those invited fo