Research Technician - London, Canada - Western University

Western University

Verified Company

London, Canada

2 weeks ago

Posted by:

Sophia Lee

beBee Recruiter

Description

About Western:

About Us:

Western University has received a $66M investment from the Canada First Research Excellence Fund (CFREF). This investment will bring together researchers from across the University under a unifying initiative called BrainsCAN.

The mission of BrainsCAN is to reduce the burden of brain disorders that affect cognition, by extending and mobilizing knowledge of the mappings between neural circuits and high level behavior and cognition to deliver evidence based interventions.

A major component of BrainsCAN is Elite Core Infrastructure, to provide essential support to our researchers. The mission of the BrainsCAN Rodent Cognition Core is to facilitate understanding of the circuits and mechanisms underlying cognition.

Key Goals of the Unit:_

Work carried out in the BrainsCAN Rodent Cognition Core combines neurobiological techniques for manipulating brain circuits (e.g., DREADDs, optogenetics, pharmacology, transgenic and knockout mouse models, viral vectors) with sophisticated analysis of cognition using mainly touchscreen-based assessment systems.

This system enables us to use very similar, and in many cases identical, cognitive assays in mice, rats and humans-maximizing the likelihood that the same underlying cognitive processes are being probed.

Responsibilities:

The Research Technician provides technical execution activities involving the analysis of tissues derived from lab animals.

The technician will perform cellular and molecular analyses in support of previously collected behavioural data, and will conduct behavioural experiments as required.

The technician reports via regular meetings with Principal Investigators and other research staff to review ongoing projects, plan future projects, and anticipate future needs.

When conducting behavioural experiments, the technician will report any physical or behavioural abnormalities, and will complete and maintain documentation and records related to animal care and procedures ensuring that animals are cared for according to Canadian Council on Animal Care (CCAC) and American College of Veterinary Services guidelines.

The technician will perform all tasks, under the direction of their supervisor, related to animal care and tissue collection in adherence to relevant guidelines.

The incumbent will demonstrate sincere compassion for animals, and will advocate for the welfare of animals under their care by promptly following up with animal care leadership regarding any environmental, experimental or health concerns.

Scope of Responsibility

Maintain logs and databases of collected data
Understand the existing approaches thoroughly, and test new approaches with controls
Collaborating in the preparation and performance of experiments following defined protocols and procedures
Tracking and recording results and presenting data to Supervisor
Ensuring the proper handling and disposal of hazaedous waste materials following health and safety guidelines and legislation
Monitors supplies and raises concerns related to equipment and/or inventory to Postdoctoral Associate or Supervisor
Minor facilities issues such as tidiness and cleanliness
Organization of own workday and manament of own tasks and priorities
Resolving issues utilizing established protocols and/or procedures
Woirking in collaboration with peers to resolve challenges arising in regards to shared equipment and supplies

Qualifications

Education:

Bachelor's Degree in Neuroscience or a related field

Experience:

1 year of work experience supporting research in a related technical field

Skills, Abilities & Expertise:

Knowledge of CCAC guidelines and policies of the Western Animal Care Committee preferred
Demonstrated ability to research/investigate issues and resolve problems
Demonstrated ability to take initiative and follow through on work assignments
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment
Familiarity with animal "norm" for mouse species
Ability to provide timely and consistent mouse behavioural assessment that complies with all relevant policies and procedures, and recognize and report animal health issues
Ability to conduct cellular and molecular analysis on mouse tissue
Ability to maintain animal care standards in accordance with regulatory guidelines and legislation
Ability to consistently utilize ergonomically sound processes in accordance with guidelines
Ability to complete detailed records and reports
Ability and willingness to employ a consultative and collaborative approach to addressing issues and making decisions
Ability to work within a flexible schedule to accommodate research activities
Ability to follow standard operating procedures with high attention to detail
Ability to employ a systematic and efficient approach to work
Basic computer skills in Microsoft Office Suite
Ability to prioritize and organize a fluctuating work load
Ability to interact profession