Laboratory Technician

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

Salary Grade: Level O

Please note, this is a 1 year temporary full time contract opportunity covering a leave of absence.

**About Western**:
**About Us**:
The Department of Physiology and Pharmacology is the largest basic medical science department within the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry. Our mission is to carry out world-class scientific research and evidence-based teaching, expanding on our track record of innovation and excellence in both research and teaching. We have award-winning teachers who are committed to delivering high-quality and innovative education at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. In addition, our department has a strong focus on research excellence with faculty members recognized internationally for their achievements.

**Responsibilities**:
The Laboratory Technician will support the effective and efficient operation of the Physiology and Pharmacology Undergraduate Teaching Laboratories and research within the Department. The role supports the preparation of complex experiments, plans and sets up experiments and supplies, and cleans up following laboratory sessions. The Laboratory Technician operates and sets up sophisticated laboratory equipment for use in courses and supports the execution of experimental procedures. The role ensures faculty members, graduate teaching assistants (GTA), and undergraduate students have the required information, training and oversight, documentation, and resources to ensure the successful implementation of undergraduate teaching programs, while ensuring compliance with health and safety standards.

In addition to supporting the undergraduate teaching laboratory, the Laboratory Technician will also support the technical needs of the department’s research scientists which includes the receiving of research laboratory supplies, chemicals, and equipment for the labs in the MSB/DSB complex, coordinating the procurement and maintenance of lab coats, processing biohazardous waste, performing protein purification and fluorescent spectroscopy, and assisting in the maintenance of shared departmental facilities.

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

- 4 year University Bachelor of Science Degree in a relevant discipline (such as Basic Sciences or Bachelor of Medical Science Degree)

**Experience**:

- 2 years of experience working in a research-intensive and/or teaching laboratory environment including performing experiments specifically in isolating human stromal interaction molecules as well as the maintenance of highly sensitive light scattering equipment

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

- Ability to work with a wide range of physiological/pharmacological laboratory equipment and procedures, including ACTA FPLC and Circular Dichroism Spectroscopy
- Extensive knowledge of calcium and magnesium binding protein biology
- Ability to work with a wide range of molecular biology equipment and techniques (such as western blot, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, immunofluorescence, histology, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA), mammalian and bacterial cell culture, isolating human stromal interaction molecules, etc.
- Advanced knowledge of mammalian physiology
- Ability to consistently utilize ergonomically sound processes in accordance with guidelines
- Excellent troubleshooting ability along with hands-on expertise in technical support
- 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
- Intermediate computer skills in Microsoft Office Suite with the ability to learn and use software programs (such as R)
- Ability to multi-task and maintain an organized and effective personal work environment
- Personable and courteous in working relationships with colleagues, students and the public
- Ability to work independently and effectively as a member of the team to achieve department goals with a strong record of teamwork
- Ability to work within a flexible schedule to accommodate the activities of the laboratory
- Professional manner, tact, diplomacy and discretion in interacting with trainees and other university personnel on a daily basis to maximize the undergraduate student experience
- Ability to prioritize and multi-task in a demanding and interruptive environment
- Ability to ensure a safe environment by identifying, resolving and reporting safety hazards

**Union Statement**:
**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.