Research Assistant/Technician 4 - VancouverUBC, Canada - University of British Columbia

Description

Job Category
Non Union Technicians and Research Assistants

Job Profile
Non Union Salaried – Research Assistant /Technician 4

Job Title
Research Assistant/Technician 4

Department
Subramaniam Laboratory Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Faculty of Medicine

Compensation Range
$5,068.91 – $5,946.08 CAD Monthly

Posting End Date
November 13, 2023

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

Job End Date

Nov 30, 2024

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
We seek to hire a Research Assistant/Technician 4 with strong cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) skills to lead the data processing pipeline in the cryo-EM facility of the Canada Excellence Research Chair (CERC) Program led by Dr. Sriram Subramaniam at the University of British Columbia (UBC) Vancouver campus within the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health. The long-term mission of the program is to explore frontiers in structural biology and drug design using cryo-EM, with the central goal of accelerating the development of effective therapeutic agents. Our research combines novel technologies for high-resolution 3D imaging with computation and machine learning as well as cell and molecular biology. The program is guided by two overarching themes: Drug Design and Technology Development. The research program is highly interdisciplinary, capitalizing on trans-institutional collaborations spanning the spectrum from engineering to chemistry and biology in addition to a variety of partnerships with the private sector. The Data Processing Technician will provide day-to-day support for the computational aspects of cryo-EM operations.
Organizational Status
The incumbent reports to the Facility Manager, Dr. Alison Berezuk and Principal Investigator, Dr. Sriram Subramaniam, and works closely with the other researchers and stakeholders engaged with the research program.
Work Performed

• Analyze single-particle EM datasets collected in the CERC Cryo-EM Facility for 3D reconstruction of proteins and protein complexes.
• Develop image-analysis methodology for high-resolution single-particle EM data processing to increase the throughput and resolution of analyzed data.
• Write detailed reports on data processing methods and results obtained for internal projects and external collaborative research contracts.
• Provide training and advice to staff and students in the CERC program on cryo-EM data processing techniques, as well as consultation on project work and project-specific data processing methods.
• Participate in operation and management of cryo-EM computing infrastructure of the CERC program.
• Interact effectively with a broad range of colleagues such as Structural Biology researchers and other IT staff.
• Develop and write standard operating procedure documentation for image analysis methodology and newly developed in-house protocols.

Consequence of Error/Judgement
The incumbent must consistently exercise sound judgement and discretion. The impact of decisions and consequence of error is significant. It is of the utmost importance to maintain confidentiality, diplomacy, integrity, and security of study data. Errors or omissions in research procedures, analyses, or ineffective mentorship could lead to loss of partner relationships, funding or decisions that adversely affect the effectiveness and reputation of the program.
Supervision Received
The position works under broad directives from the Facility Manager, Dr. Alison Berezuk and Principal Investigator, Dr. Sriram Subramaniam.
Supervision Given
The Facility Manager, in consultation with the PI, will provide general direction to and supervision of research assistants, trainees and scholars in the research lab. May supervise more junior staff that support facility operations.
Minimum Qualifications
Completion of a university degree in a relevant discipline or technical program and a minimum four years of related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Some positions may require a graduate degree.
– 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

• Preferred M.Sc. in structural biology, biophysics, computer science or a related multidisciplinary field, with at least 2 years of research experience in cryo-EM or professional degree in a relevant discipline, preferably post-graduate level.
• Experience in analysis of biological systems with single particle EM (negative stain and cryo-EM).
• Hands-on experience in single-particle cryo-EM data processing using cryoSPARC and/or RELION.
• Strong scripting and programming experience with proficiency in C/C++/Python/Matlab programming for algorithm implementation on CPU/GPU hybrid computing clusters.
• Demonstrated competency in academic or technical writing and communication.
• Proficiency in the use of relational databases for sample submission and data tracking.
• Ability to manage effectively in a dynamic environment which requires multi-tasking, and working effectively under pressure to meet deadlines.
• Possess strong time management and organizational skills.
• High-level interpersonal communications skills and the ability to liaise with staff and research students, and professional/technical staff.
• Knowledge of university policies, procedures, governance and administrative systems for research conducted in a university setting, including ethical requirements.
• Ability to communicate with diplomacy, tact, and unconditional positive regard both verbally and in writing.

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