Research Technician

**Classification & Regular Hours**:
Hours per Week: 37.5

Salary Grade: Level N

Please note, this is a 1-year grant-funded contract position.

**About Western**:
**About Us**:
The Robarts Research Institute within the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry at Western University has a mission to accelerate medical discovery. Through a powerful integration of basic and clinical research, we are driving major advances that impact on many of today's most devastating diseases.

Dr. Rylett's research addresses fundamental questions in the regulation of cholinergic neuron function, and how neurochemical communication by these neurons may be altered in aging and disease. Cholinergic neurons control diverse physiological processes including learning and memory, sleep and movement, and their degeneration early in the development of Alzheimer's disease accounts for much of the loss of cognitive function.

**Responsibilities**:
The Research Technician will work under the direction of a Principal Investigator, and in collaboration with researchers, technicians, faculty, staff and students, to prepare and conduct experiments and techniques in the areas of cell and molecular biology following established protocols and procedures and will be involved in development of new methodology when protocols do not exist. The role will be responsible for the general operation and maintenance of laboratory equipment, providing equipment training and maintenance, and small animal surgical support as required. The Research Technician will contribute to providing training and oversight to students, assist with laboratory maintenance and organization and order supplies as required.

**Qualifications**:
**Education**:

- 4 year University Bachelor's Degree in Cell and Molecular Biology, or related discipline

**Experience**:

- 2 years experience with breeding mice and maintaining mouse colonies Experience working in a research intensive laboratory environment in the areas of general cell biology and molecular biologyKnowledge, Skills & Abilities:

- Knowledge of behavioural analysis in mice, familiarity with animal handling and animal “normals” for mouse species with the ability to recognize and report animal health issues
- Demonstrated skill in the operation of state-of-the-art microscopy equipment, including confocal microscopy
- Knowledge of associated risks in a research environment with the ability to adhere to legislated safety requirements and Western safety policies
- Familiarity with methods for research design, implementation, and analysis and with quantitative and qualitative research methodologies and analyses
- Familiarity with techniques for updating, managing and extracting data from a research database
- Familiarity with preventative maintenance techniques and practices
- Communication skills with an ability to complete detailed analytics and reports
- Attention to detail with an ability to retrieve, analyze and synthesize sizable amounts of data, while ensuring that information is accurate and comprehensive
- Ability to follow formal processes and protocols with high attention to detail
- Ability to employ a systematic and efficient approach to work
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, meet tight deadlines and adapt to changing priorities
- Excellent troubleshooting ability along with hands-on expertise in technical support
- Intermediate computer skills in Microsoft Office Suite with the ability to learn and use software programs related to research
- Personable and courteous in working relationships with colleagues, students and the public
- Ability to identify key results from research and to summarize and draft reports on research findings
- Ability to work independently and effectively as a member of the team to achieve department goals
- Familiarity with University policies and procedures related to research preferred

**Union Statement**:
**Background Checks**:
Please note, successful applicants may be required to produce current record check(s) (e.g. vulnerable sector, criminal record and police information) from a police service prior to commencing employment.

**Western Values Diversity**:
Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. If you require accommodations for interviews or other meetings, please contact Human Resources or phone 519-661-2194.

**Please Note**:
We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those chosen for an interview will be contacted.