Lab Technician

Date Posted: 03/27/2026
Req ID: 47485
Faculty/Division: Temerty Faculty of Medicine
Department: Department of Biochemistry
Campus: St. George (Downtown Toronto)
Position Number: 00059175
Existing Vacancy: Yes

Description:

About us:

Home to over 40 departments and institutes, the University of Toronto's Temerty Faculty of Medicine lies at the heart of the Toronto Academic Health Science Network and is a global leader in ground-breaking research and education, spanning clinical medicine, basic science and the rehabilitation sciences sectors.

Your opportunity:

The Department of Biochemistry is a dynamic community of 70 faculty, 150 graduate students and 450 undergraduate students. Our research touches on fundamental questions on basic mechanisms of living systems as well as the discovery of new therapeutics against infection, cancer and neurodegenerative disease. Our departmental mission is to offer undergraduate and graduate education that is second-to-none in the world. We aim to prepare the best minds for careers in academia as well as the private sector.

Research in the Nodwell Laboratory is focused on the chemical biology of microorganisms. We employ genomics and biochemical approaches to identify and understand antimicrobial metabolites produced by the genus Streptomyces. The aim of this work is focused on identifying new antibiotics and to understand their interaction with antibiotic resistant pathogens. In parallel, we study mechanisms of antibiotic resistance and sensitivity in the Gram-positive cell envelope.

As a Laboratory Technician, you will play a key role in supporting the lab’s research and daily operations, working collaboratively with the lab Senior Research Associate and a postdoctoral fellow. Your responsibilities will include preparing routine samples, collecting and recording experimental data, and ensuring that equipment and materials are ready for use. You will help maintain an organized, safe, and compliant work environment by preparing reagents, managing inventories, coordinating supply purchases, and adhering to biosafety and chemical safety standards. You will also help maintain efficient lab workflows through clear communication and dependable technical support, while expanding your familiarity with contemporary antibiotics and microbiology research.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Preparing routine samples for research on the production of the valuable aminosaccharide chitobiose by streptomycetes bacteria
• Conduct regular fermentations to accumulate and maintain a chitobiose stockpile, applying it to research on applications in research, agriculture, drug formulation and others
• Assist with the sharing of material with collaborators at the University of Toronto and internationally
• Assist other laboratory personnel in the improvement and optimization of chitobiose production, providing occasional assistance with molecular cloning initiatives
• Collecting and recording experimental data in shared databases and electronic notebooks
• Preparing laboratory equipment and determining material requirements for lab set up
• Paying close attention to occupational safety precautions and biosafety/chemical compliance, providing orientation to others on work procedures and practices
• Preparing reagents, maintaining stocks/laboratory inventories, while coordinating purchase of supplies and communicating with vendors regarding orders

Essential Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree in Biochemistry or Chemistry, or a related field
• Minimum one year microbiological research experience with sterile technique and the preparation and maintenance of bacterial stocks
• Experience preparing routine samples and laboratory reagents, as well as in the setup, operation, and general maintenance of standard laboratory equipment in accordance with established standards
• Experience with maintaining laboratory records, organizing and sharing experimental data, and contributing to collaborative research projects
• Experience preparing laboratory reagents, as well as in the operation and general maintenance of standard laboratory equipment
• Experience with lab purchasing, inventory tracking, equipment maintenance, and safety compliance
• A strong foundation in both organic chemistry and chromatographic purification
• Proficiency with computing and data management tools (e.g., Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, or equivalent systems)
• Excellent manual dexterity required
• Ability to exercise sound judgement and initiative in resolving day-to-day technical or research problems
• Excellent time management
• Experience with scientific writing and oral communication
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team research setting

Assets (Nonessential):

• Familiarity with Biosafety level 2 procedures and safe chemical handling
• Completion of WHMIS and BSL2 training

To be successful in this role you will be:

• Approachable
• Communicator
• Efficient
• Organized
• Team player

This is a 6-month term position.

Closing Date: 04/10/2026, 11:59PM ET
Employee Group: USW
Appointment Type: Grant - Term
Schedule: Full-Time
Pay Scale Group & Hiring Zone:
USW Pay Band 06 -- $56,731. with an annual step progression to a maximum of $72,548. Pay scale and job class assignment is subject to determination pursuant to the Job Evaluation/Pay Equity Maintenance Protocol.
Job Category: Administrative / Managerial
Recruiter: Callum Ferguson

Lived Experience Statement
Candidates who are members of Indigenous, Black, racialized and 2SLGBTQ+ communities, persons with disabilities, and other equity deserving groups are encouraged to apply, and their lived experience shall be taken into consideration as applicable to the posted position.

A job description is available upon request