Research Asst/Tech 4

Job Summary

This appointment is for a Research Assistant position to provide technical support for sequencing projects relating to One Health Genomics.

Work will focus on running existing protocols such as detection and characterization of avian influenza in wetland sediments via qPCR and probe enrichment sequencing methods.

In addition, work will focus on developing new methods to detect and sequence other pathogens within environmental specimens.

Tasks include extracting RNA from various sample types (i.e. wetland sediment, oysters, wastewater, clinical), performing diagnostic qPCR, constructing libraries for Illumina sequencing, and carrying out sequencing.

This work is with sensitive public health data and the individual must understand and exemplify the ethics of confidentiality, sensitivity, and respect when communicating all study information.

The applicant must be exceptionally detail-orientated and organized and able to design and carry out validation experiments.

The individual must be able to prioritize tasks to ensure that time-sensitive duties are completed in priority. This person must also be self-directed, able to excel in a team environment, know personal limitations and take initiative to ask for assistance when needed.

Organizational Status

The applicant reports to the Project PI, Project Scientists and Scientific Project Leader. They will work with a broad team of scientists at BCCDC PHL, Ministry of Agriculture and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.

The position is based at the BCCDC Public Health Laboratory.

Work Performed

• Performs daily lab work such as extracting RNA from various specimens, qPCR testing, construction of libraries for Illumina sequencing and sequencing of libraries using probe capture and amplicon methods.
• Ensures that the laboratory conforms with relevant laboratory safety guidelines as they pertain to working a Biosafety Level II Lab, using Level III precautions.
• Maintains detailed inventory of samples processed and keep meticulous records of their work in order to troubleshoot problems and propose improvements to assays.
• Analyzes and summarizes results for reports, publications, and presentations at team meetings.
• Designs and carries out validation experiments and writing of standard operating procedures.
• Manages laboratory operation; organizes laboratory, maintains inventory and ordering of supplies.
• Coordinates, monitors, and ensures the implementation and enforcement of laboratory safety rules and procedures.
• Writes reports and updates for stakeholders; contributes to writing of research grants

Consequence of Error / Judgement

The applicant is required to conduct all activities in an ethical manner. Any procedures or data recorded as part of this research must be accurate and must accurately reflect the work performed.

Strict confidentiality of all project participants is critical. Errors made could impact interpretation of the data, delay timely completion of work, waste irreplaceable specimens, and incur significant costs.

This would impact decision-making capacity of government stakeholders depending on these results for public health and agriculture surveillance, and it would impact the credibility of the PI and other team members.

Supervision Received

Most aspects of work will be assigned and then carried out independently, with feedback from Project PI, Research Scientists and Scientific Project Leader.

Supervision Given

May have supervisory responsibilities for a small group of employees at lower classifications and may have input into staff selection and performance evaluation.

Minimum Qualifications

Completion of a university degree in a field related to microbiology, molecular biology, or biochemistry, or completion of a technical program in clinical laboratory sciences.

A minimum of four years of related experience, including demonstrated hands-on experience with common laboratory techniques in molecular biology (nucleic acid extractions, PCRs, ligations, sequencing library preparation).

• 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

• Graduate degree in a discipline related to microbiology, genomics, molecular biology. Demonstrated hands-on experience conducting high-throughput molecular laboratory work (performing nucleic acid extractions, PCRs, sequencing library preparation on high numbers of specimens using multichannel pipettes and 96 well reaction plates).
• Computer literacy and proficiency (Microsoft Word and Excel required, basic datasheet manipulation with R or Python preferred).
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
• Able to identify and relate to concerns of others and to exercise good judgement when resolving difficulties.
• Demonstrated ability to show initiative and self-directed work habits.
• Ability to work effectively independently and in a team environment.
• Ability to maintain accuracy and attention to detail. Ability to deal with a diversity of people in a calm, respectful, and effective manner.
3 days ago