Research Assistant Technician II

Guelph, CA, N1G 2W1

Primary Category Page: Staff and Management

Division: College of Biological Science

Requisition ID: 1055

Department: Centre for Biodiversity Genomics

This position is classified under the Grant and Trust Administrative & Technical Group

Temporary full-time from 03/03/2025 to 03/02/2026

If you are a current employee of the University of Guelph you must apply on the internal Career Page in order to be considered as an internal applicant.

?Career Opportunities (sapsf.com)

General Purpose

The Canadian Centre for DNA Barcoding (CCDB, ccdb.ca) is the authoritative provider of DNA-based species identification services with research partners and clients in over 150 institutions across 50 countries. As the principal core facility for the International Barcode of Life multinational consortium (ibol.org), the CCDB is tasked with processing large numbers of specimens from a tissue sample to a DNA barcode using a wide range of DNA extraction methods and various sequencing technologies. To sustain its unrivalled analytical capacity, the CCDB has immediate, temporary (renewable) vacancy for two laboratory technicians II.

The individuals will be responsible for the preparation of high-quality DNA extracts and related samples for genomic analysis including but not limited to PCR and DNA sequencing. The individuals will operate various laboratory instruments, including Biomek Liquid Handling robots, and will perform initial data capturing and reporting. The individuals will maintain accurate laboratory records, participate in sample audit and inventories, and comply with health & safety standards and requirements.

Duties And Responsibilities

• Prepare, validate, and dispense reagents for high-throughput workflows.
• Execute extraction and purification of high quality DNA and related samples (vouchers) in accordance with laboratory protocols and standard operating procedures for various types of specimens and degrees of tissue preservation.
• Perform established PCR protocols for high throughput amplification of DNA samples using pre-fabricated reagents.
• Prepare customized PCR reagents and execute DNA amplification using modified protocols when required.
• Perform QC protocols including but not limited to PCR check via agarose gels when required.
• Record and transmit data to LIMS and MS SharePoint systems, and other electronic databases as required.
• Coordinate with other laboratory members and senior staff in scheduling and performing laboratory preparations and tests.
• Contribute to quality audits and general maintenance/upkeep of the utilized laboratory space.

Requirements

• 2 to 3 years of post-secondary education, including at least one molecular biology lab course with some experience required.
• Strong attention to detail;
• Proven ability to work efficiently and effectively in high-paced environments;
• Proficiency with standard computer software packages;
• Ability to work under tight deadlines with minimal supervision;
• Demonstrated organizational, interpersonal and oral/written communication skills;
• Awareness of occupational health & safety and WHMIS in a laboratory environment;
• Self-motivated and able to work collaboratively within a team environment.
• The following is considered an asset:
• Work experience in an accredited facility;
• Experience with nucleic acid sample handling and preparation;
• Experience in one or more molecular biology lab techniques, especially in PCR and DNA sequencing;
• Experience in automated sample processing;
• Experience with analysis and interpretation of DNA sequence information using one or more specialized software tools.

Employee Type: Temporary

Classification: Grant/ Trust fund position, Band GTAT – Band B

GTAT (Grant & Trust Administrative and Technical) Salary Grid

• Tentative evaluation; subject to final review.

At the University of Guelph, fostering a culture of inclusion is an institutional imperative. The University invites and encourages applications from all qualified individuals, including from groups that are traditionally underrepresented in employment, who may contribute to further diversification of our Institution.

Posting Date: 01/22/2025

Close Date: 02/05/2025