Job Opportunity - Research Assistant, Laboratory - BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS

Please note: Only Canadian Citizens, legal residents or residents with a legal work permit will be considered.

ORGANIZATION: The BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS (BC-CfE) is a renowned HIV/AIDS research centre with integrated research concentrations in the areas of Laboratory Sciences, Epidemiology, Health Economics, Clinical Trials, and Professional Education Programs. A multidisciplinary team of Epidemiologists, Data Analysts, Statisticians, Economists, and Clinical Researchers work collaboratively to conduct research to improve the health of people living with HIV in British Columbia.

JOB: In the BC CfE Laboratory, Research Assistants (RA) conduct complex laboratory procedures (analytical chemistry or molecular-biology based) that produce high quality results, in support of the BC-CfE's precision medicine or research activities. In this position, the RA generates data in support of research studies and clinical trials operated through the BC-CfE Research Laboratory or BC-CfE AIDS Research Program.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Performs complex laboratory procedures (e.g. DNA/RNA extraction, RT-PCR, gel electrophoresis, DNA sequencing, antiretroviral drug level measurement by HPLC-MSMS) involving potentially infectious biological specimens and analyzes data to produce reportable results to researchers.
• Adheres to laboratory policies and procedures, Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), quality control and quality assurance standards, and complies with safety regulations and accreditation requirements. Adapts to changes in policy and procedures and provides input to these changes as required.
• Maintains accurate, high quality documentation of all laboratory procedures and processes in accordance with accreditation requirements and/or applicable research standards by recording them the Laboratory Information System (LIS) and/or lab notebook.
• Contributes to research projects by collecting data, participating in the interpretation and/or analysis of data, and assisting in the drafting of research reports, abstracts and manuscripts.
• Participates in the development, validation, optimization and implementation of new molecular biology and/or analytical chemistry assay methods including evaluating new equipment and products.
• Participates in establishing laboratory protocols for proposed studies.
• Performs other duties as required.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS:

• BSc Degree from an accredited post-secondary institution in biological, chemical or physical sciences, clinical laboratory science or medical technology; minimum of two (2) years’ recent related laboratory experience performing relevant procedures using related equipment (e.g. biological specimen handling, DNA/RNA extraction, RT-PCR gel electrophoresis, DNA Sequencing, HPLC-MSMS) and troubleshooting non-conforming procedures and equipment.
• Exceptional analytical and reasoning skills
• Proven understanding of experiment design, equipment troubleshooting and maintenance
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively with others
• Working knowledge of computerized systems utilized in laboratories and current software applications such as MS Office Applications.
• Ability to operate related equipment
• Willingness and ability to work with biohazardous materials
• Physical ability to perform the duties of the position.

An equivalent combination of education, training and experience may be considered.

STATUS: this is a temporary-full time position of approx 18 months with possibility of extension

BENEFITS: Employee benefits include medical, dental, extended health, life insurance, as well as accrued vacation and sick time.

Please send your curriculum vitae and cover letter outlining your experience and research interests via email to:

Human Resources Coordinator
c/o BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS
careers@bccfe.ca

Note: Only candidates who are selected for an interview will be contacted.