Research Assistant, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine - Calgary, Canada - University of Calgary

Description

Position Overview

The Faculty of Veterinary Medicine invites applications for a Research Assistant. This Full-time Fixed Term position is for approximately 6 months (based on length of grant funding), with the possibility of extension.

The Faculty of Veterinary Medicine is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Research Assistant to join our dynamic Bacteriology Lab. Our research is dedicated to advancing knowledge in the critical area of antimicrobial resistance, with a focus on bacteria isolated from companion animals. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to ground breaking research in veterinary medicine and play a key role in addressing the challenges posed by antimicrobial resistance.

This position reports to the Principal Invesigator.

This position is integral in advancing research on antimicrobial resistance, and supporting other projects in the Bacteriology Lab. This position will work with other lab staff (e.g., postdocs and research associates) and also participate in the training and supervision of students in the laboratory.

Position Description

Summary of Key Responsibilities (job functions include but are not limited to):

• Conduct sampling activities in designated dog parks according to established protocols.
• Collect and organize samples from dogs and human participants, ensuring proper handling and labeling.
• Maintain accurate records of sample collection activities, including location, time, and any relevant observations.
• Organize sampling kits and prepare any educational material to be used during sampling as necessary.
• Communicate effectively with dog owners and park visitors to explain the purpose of the study and obtain consent for sample collection.
• Adhere to strict safety and biosecurity protocols to minimize the risk of contamination or transmission of pathogens.
• Assist with sample processing and preparation for laboratory analysis as needed.
• Keep tidy data records.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams within the faculty to integrate findings into broader research initiatives.
• Maintain accurate records of experiments, protocols, and results.
• Autoclaving glassware, solutions, laboratory reagents involved in experiments
• Keeping the laboratory area tidy and clean
• Participate in the training and supervision of students in the laboratory

Qualifications / Requirements:

• Minimum B.Sc. degree in biology or related area. DVM degree is preferred
• Minimum of 1 year of experience working with companion animals
• Preferred background as a small animal practitioner
• Desirable proficiency in handling animal biological samples, including feces
• Proficient in MS Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and PeopleSoft
• Strong organizational skills coupled with meticulous attention to detail
• Critical ability to operate effectively both independently and collaboratively as part of a team
• Demonstrated robust analytical skills
• Desired comprehensive understanding of lab safety practices, with a proactive commitment to ongoing education for continuous improvement
• Ability to innovate and contribute inventive ideas to the Principal Investigator (PI) and fellow lab members
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, ensuring effective interaction with a diverse range of collaborators (English fluency is required)

Application Deadline: March 14, 2024

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 1.

For a listing of all management and staff opportunities at the University of Calgary, view our Management and Staff Careers website.

About the University of Calgary

UCalgary is Canada's entrepreneurial university, located in Canada's most enterprising city. It is a top research university and one of the highest-ranked universities of its age. Founded in 1966, its 36,000 students experience an innovative learning environment, made rich by research, hands-on experiences and entrepreneurial thinking. It is Canada's leader in the creation of start-ups. Start something today at the University of Calgary. For more information, visit

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