Research Assistant - Vancouver, Canada - The University of British Columbia

Description

Staff - Non Union

Job Category

Non Union Technicians and Research Assistants

Job Title

Research Assistant

Department

Hsiung Laboratory Division of Neurology | Department of Medicine | Faculty of Medicine (Ging-Yuek Robin Hsiung)

Posting End Date

May 3, 2024

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

Job End Date

Jun 23, 2025

Job Summary

The research technician will assist laboratory studies related genetics and biomarkers in dementia. These will include working with blood, plasma, and serum samples of patients and controls. This position will assist in processing of blood samples, DNA extraction, and related experimental procedures such as running PCR reactions and ELISA assays. They will keep a detail log of all experiments related to all projects. They will also be assisting in keeping track of supplies and reagents in the laboratory involved in performing the assay. They will also assist in various administrative duties including literature searches, preparation of reports, and developing applications for UBC and Hospital approvals.

Working Conditions

The laboratory is located in G134/135 in the basement and S149 on the second floor of UBC Hospital, Koerner Pavillion. The technician is expected to have proper certification to be able to handle biohazard samples (i.e. human blood samples)

Organizational Status
- Reports to Principal Investigator and Co-Principal Investigator of the study.
- Interacts and works closely with the clinicians and research staff of the UBC Hospital Clinic for Alzheimer and Related Disorders (UBCH CARD)

Work Performed

Organizing, collecting, handling, and storing (biobanking) of biological samples.

Extract DNA using an automatic DNA extraction machine (AUTOGEN FlexSTAR)

Assist in development, testing, and validating various PCR reactions and assays for SNP genotyping and measuring biomarkers in blood (including plasma, serum, lymphocytes) and cerebral spinal fluid samples.

Preparation of laboratory protocols

Keep accurate records and logs of experiments related to the research project

Consequence of Error/Judgement
An error of incorrect decision within the realm of developing or carrying out experiments may lead to inappropriate data and skewed study results.
- Any procedure or data record as part of the project must be accurate and must accurately reflect the work performed.
- Inappropriate handling or wasting of samples and reagents may lead to loss of valuable resources.
- Study files must by kept secured or patient confidentiality may be compromised.

Supervision Received
- Reports to the Principal Investigator and Co-Principal Investigator.
- The Principal Investigator and Co-Principal Investigator will oversee performance and results of the study

Supervision Given
While the principal investigator and co-principal investigator will oversee and supervise the activities of the laboratory, the technician is expected to be able to solve routine problems and perform technical tasks. The technician may also help to teach students regarding safe and accurate laboratory techniques

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.

Preferred Qualifications

Undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline or Graduation from a technical college or institute. Minimum of 2 years related experience or the equivalent combination of education and work experience. Working knowledge of research methodology and design. Working knowledge of DNA extraction and ELISA assay will be an asset. Computer proficiency. Effective interpersonal and organizational skills, oral and written communication skills. Ability to work both independently and within a team environment.

Benefits

Plan Group Number: 020605Member ID: your 7-digit UBC employee ID number, Need crisis counselling?, Call the TELUS Health at to chat with a counsellor., Disclaimer, The benefits information on this website is provided as a descriptive summary only. While the University has endeavored to accurately reflect its benefit programs, policies and plans, the information on this website does not create any contractual or other rights between the University and its faculty and staff members. To the extent that there are any conflicts or discrepancies between the benefits information on this website and the benefit plan documents (including group insurance contracts and benefit booklets) or any applicable collective agreement, employment agreement, or UBC policy, the benefit plan documents and collective agreement, employment agreement, or UBC policy will govern in all cases.