Full-Time Lab Technician, Physiology & Pharmacology
Job Description
The Department of Physiology & Pharmacology in the Cumming School of Medicine invites applications for a Lab Technician. This Full-time Fixed Term position is for approximately 1 year (based on length of grant funding), with the possibility of extension.
This position reports to the Facility Manager.
The Laboratory Technician is an essential part of the research team, whose primary purpose is to assist in the operation of the IMC laboratory research for the Germ free program. The Research Technician will support the research team by providing semi-skilled or skilled technical procedures including conducting laboratory tests, experiments, and analysis to assist in the goals of the research. The Laboratory Technician will assist the research team on projects that will be published within the field of the research at an international level. This position works closely with the IMC Director(s) in areas of protocol development, experimental assays, standard operating protocol, and research projects and proposals. The incumbent may support other research projects by providing knowledge, technical skills, and on-the-job training to others.
Summary of Key Responsibilities (job functions include but are not limited to):
- Accurately performing moderate level technical assays and timely troubleshooting
- Designing and optimizing new biochemical assays
- Assist with procurement processes related to the research projects including inventory control, working with vendors, providing quotes for ordering, receiving, work requests and waste disposal
- Operate and maintain moderately complex technical equipment; conduct routine equipment checks (incubator/freezer temps, gas pressures, LiN2 levels)
- Clinical sample processing and archiving
- Perform genotyping
- Maintenance of mouse colonies
- Ensure high standard of animal care to the research community
- Ensure animal ethics protocols are current and accurate
- Provide animal care and husbandry which may include: watering, feeding, breeding and weaning of animals
- Assist with plans and designs for specialized applications to meet the needs of operations, research, and services
- Budget involvement including developing reports, tracking expenses, and reconciliation of accounts
- Responsible for assisting with procurement and operational management of precision equipment and processes
- Assist with establishment of SOPs and recommend changes to methods, procedures, and practices within the lab
- Assist with the maintenance, implementation and documentation of the lab’s safety policies
- Assist in the development of original experiments within the guidelines of the research including animal models and with limited supervision and direction implement these guidelines
- Assist with developing animal experimentation protocols using IRISS
- Assist with preparation and execution of import permits for cell lines and bacterial strain collections
- Oversee reliable and safe operation of all laboratory equipment for various users, including stocking of all necessary materials and supplies
- Trains and supervises other staff, students, and Faculty in the operation of equipment and laboratory protocols
- Keep laboratory and work area clean and safe
- Establishes and maintains effective, productive relationships with staff, peers, immediate supervisor and senior management and with the campus community
Qualifications / Requirements:
- A minimum of a Bachelors Degree Science or related equivalent
- Related technical experience in biological sciences and in a research laboratory
- Experience in working with animal research models and technical knowledge of microbiology is essential
- Expertise in molecular biology, microbiology, immunology techniques, microscopy, and/or other related fields considered an asset
- Experience with various biological samples (eg. blood, tissues, urine, etc) considered an asset
- Ability to perform detailed design, documentation, and implementation of moderately complex technological systems consistent with a laboratory setting
- Ability to provide moderate technical support for other team members
- Knowledge of theory and practical application of technical procedures and techniques
- Organizational skills are essential
- Moderate problem solving abilities
- Professional attitude and work ethic
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Detail oriented and excellent manual dexterity
- Ability to work independently and as a team member
- Must be open to learning and development, and be willing to accept new challenges and assignments
- Understanding of safety codes and standards related to specialization
Application Deadline: May 1, 2025
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.
This position is part of the AUPE bargaining unit, and falls under the Technical Job Family, Phase 1.
For a listing of all management and staff opportunities at the University of Calgary, view our Management and Staff Careers website.
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