Position Overview
The University of Calgary is currently seeking a Full-Time Fixed-term Laboratory Technician for the Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Infectious Diseases in the Cumming School of Medicine. This Full-time Fixed Term position is for approximately 1 year (based on length of grant funding), with the possibility of extension.
The Lab Technicians primary purpose is to work with the Principle Investigator and support the research team through providing semi-skilled or skilled technical procedures. This may include conducting laboratory tests, experiments and analysis to assist in the goals of the research. The Lab Technician will record findings to contribute to publication within the field of the research in both a national and international level. Lab technicians conduct laboratory tests, experiments and analyses.
Will also need to express and purify protein (involves cell culture, FPLC usage, protein characterization). Treat mice with nanomedicine (animal handling experience). Perform in vitro techniques measuring cell interactions/behavior (ELISa, proliferation assay, FACS). Microscopy (transmission electron microscopy, super-resolution, super-resolution confocal microscopy, scanning electron microscopy).
This position will report to the Principle Investigator.
Position Description
Summary of Key Responsibilities (job functions include but are not limited to):
Under general supervision and direction of the PI, develop and implement original experiments within the guidelines of the research
The majority of time will be spent synthesizing, conjugating and characterizing nanoparticles
Must be able to work independently as well as with a team
Will work with colleagues to produce different nanoparticles used in various immune models
Nanoparticles must be correctly made and analyzed so that the downstream in vivo studies are not negatively affected
Reliable and safe operation of all laboratory equipment
Trains other staff and students in the operation of equipment and laboratory protocols
Conduct analyses of various biological samples (eg. tissues, blood, urine, etc) and record findings
Understanding of safety codes, standards, and systems related to specialization
Keep laboratory and work area clean and safe
Operate and maintain basic technical equipment
Provide semi-skilled to skilled technical procedures to support the research project
Establishes and maintains effective, productive relationships with staff, peers, immediate supervisor and senior management and with the campus community
Manages own time effectively and ensures immediate reports to manager is kept informed of activities, and progress of work
Demonstrated strong communication, team and customer service skills, and an ability to exercise judgment within established guidelines
Qualifications / Requirements:
Bachelor’s Degree
Minimum 2 years of technical experience and completion of post-secondary education in related discipline
1 to 3 years of related technical experience within the research speciality field
Experience in the synthesis (thermal decomposition methods and others), conjugation (using state-of-the art antibody-drug conjugation (ADC) chemistries) and characterization of nanoparticles as well as the conjugated derivatives
Experience in trouble-shooting the production of nanoparticles and tailoring the nanoparticles to each specific immune model being studied
Experience in recombinant peptide-MHC expression and purification in CHO cells. Experience in using FPLC and protein biochemistry
Experience with Flow cytometry
Experience in microscopy
Experience in mouse handling, checking blood glucose levels and injections
Working knowledge of immunology
Perform detailed design, documentation, and implementation of moderately complex technological systems
Interact with other members of the team and undertake literature reviews
Provide technical support for other team members through advice on technical lab issues
Knowledge of theory and practical application of technical procedures
Must be open to learning and development, and be willing to accept new challenges and assignments
Previous experience working with various biological samples (eg. blood, tissues, urine, etc)
Demonstrated strong communication, team and customer service skills, and an ability to exercise judgment within established guidelines
Intermediate to advanced skills in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint)
A positive attitude and the ability to work independently and as part of a team are critical to success
WHMIS
Application Deadline: This position will remain open until filled; reviewed of applications will begin August 17, 2015.
We would like to thank all applicants in advance for submitting their resumes. Please note, only those candidates chosen to continue on through the selection process will be contacted.
Additional Information
This position is part of the AUPE bargaining unit, and falls under the Technical Job Family, Phase I. (Salary range $23.10 – $33.60/hour)
To find out more about our competitive salaries and benefits, and why we are a great place to work and learn, please visit the Staff Careers website.
About the University of Calgary
The University of Calgary is a leading Canadian university located in the nation’s most enterprising city. The university has a clear strategic direction to become one of Canada’s top five research universities by 2016, where research and innovative teaching go hand in hand, and where we fully engage the communities we both serve and lead. This strategy is called Eyes High, inspired by the university’s Gaelic motto, which translates as ‘I will lift up my eyes’. For more information, visit ucalgary.ca.
The University of Calgary believes that a respectful workplace, equal opportunity and building a diverse workforce contribute to the richness of the environment for teaching, learning and research, and provide faculty, staff, students and the public with a university that reflects the society it serves. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, however preference will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada.
In this connection, at the time of your application, please answer the following questions: Are you entitled to work in Canada (Yes/No) and are you a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident of Canada? (Yes/No).
Business address: 2500 University Dr NW, Calgary AB T2N 1N4
Contact information: hrhire@ucalgary.ca
TO APPLY:
Please visit the University of Calgary’s career opportunities page; www.ucalgary.ca/careersuofc. Job search ID # 8637.