Lab Research Assistant/tech 2 (Vec)

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Note: Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on the Posting End Date.

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This offer is conditional upon successful completion of a Criminal Record Check.

Note: Only the Full Time Compensation Range is displayed on the job posting details advertised on the UBC Career sites.

At UBC, we believe that attracting and sustaining a diverse workforce is key to the successful pursuit of excellence in research, innovation, and learning for all faculty, staff and students. Our commitment to employment equity helps achieve inclusion and fairness, brings rich diversity to UBC as a workplace, and creates the necessary conditions for a rewarding career.

Job Summary

Under general supervision, organizes and participates in the upkeep of the lab (making buffers, autoclaving tips, garbage, ordering, etc.) and assisting other lab personnel as needed in experiments. Conducts a variety of moderately complex technical tasks in experimental immunology (human and mouse).

Specifically: Utilizing standard techniques and protocols performs various technical tasks, and assists in analyzing and interpreting experimental results. Also assists in performing more complex tasks, such as animal surgery and necropsy, as well as experiments involving human cells, tissues, and samples. Operates, maintains, and troubleshoots problems with standard equipment. Carries out any other related duties as required in keeping with the qualifications and requirements of positions in this classification. Previous laboratory experience in these areas, particularly animal work, is a plus. Passionately interested to expand knowledge base and to learn new techniques. Occasionally needs to be available to work on weekends.

The individual should be self-motivated and able to perform tasks with minimal supervision once trained. The individual should be able to work in a collaborative team to achieve experimental goals.

Organizational Status
Works within well defined guidelines and procedures, but exercises judgment in establishing priorities and carrying tasks through to completion; new or unusual problems are referred to supervisor. Reports to Lab Coordinator and Project Manager; in their absence will report to the Lab Director. Interacts in a multidisciplinary and multicultural team working approach, with all permanent, part-time, and independent staff.

The Lab is located at the Oak Street Campus site. Staff will be fully trained in the handling of all material and in the use of safety equipment, disposal techniques, handling of contaminated waste, and emergency response.

Work Performed
1) Tissue Culture Techniques
a. Aseptic technique and preparation of sterile media and other reagents
b. Isolation of cells from blood samples and cytokine production stimulation
c. Infection of whole blood/cell lines/isolated cells with CL2 pathogens
d. Maintenance of frozen cell repository

2) Bacteriology
a. Production of bacterial strains for use as vaccine in mice

3) Animal Care
a. Breeding, immunization, euthanization, tissue collection

4) Flow Cytometry
a. Analysis of cell phenotype
b. Quantification of cytokine production

5) Immunology
a. ELISA and Luminex

6) Basic Molecular Biology techniques
a. DNA, RNA extractions

7) Recording experimental data according to good laboratory practice

8) Participate in lab meetings and discuss plans and updates with the group

9) General laboratory duties as required
a. Participate in daily routine lab work
b. Dispose of lab materials under existing guidelines.
c. Carry out assignments and tasks in an efficient, accurate, and timely manner.
d. Cleaning glassware, flow hoods, and incubators on a regular basis.
e. Autoclaving supplies; maintain liquid nitrogen tank service including and the transport of empty and full liquid nitrogen tanks to the appropriate facility in the building.
f. Ordering supplies, unpacking deliveries, restocking lab shelves as needed organizing files, retrieving articles from the library and electronic journals.
g. Coordinating of lab coats maintenance in a monthly basis including transporting them to the appropriate facility in the building for laundry.
h. Defrosting of freezers and cleaning the fridges as necessary.

10. Available to work weekends

Consequence of Error/Judgement
Under general supervision, performs a variety of experimental tasks. Failure to do so impacts experiments, scientific results, and increased costs, as well as potential safety risks.

Supervision Received
Project Leads and Senior Technicians will provide close supervision and training during the initial period of employment while techniques are learned and new methods are explored. Once training is complete, the individual should be able to work with basic supervision, although help will always be available for problem solving.

Supervision Given
May provide technical guidance and assistance within their field of expertise to other laboratory members as required.

Minimum Qualifications
High school graduation, some additional training in a related field and a minimum two years of related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

- Willingness to respect diverse perspectives, including perspectives in conflict with one's own

- Demonstrates a commitment to enhancing one's own awareness, knowledge, and skills related to equity, diversity, and inclusion

Preferred Qualifications

Bachelor of Science preferred with lab work experience. Experience in animal work (Breeding, immunization, euthanization, tissue collection). Excellent English communication skills (reading, speaking & writing). Working knowledge of Microsoft Office is a necessity. Great interpersonal skills to work well with a team. Working knowledge of immunological techniques (ELISA is required). Strong attention to detail.