Sequencing Specialist

Date Posted: 02/27/2026
Req ID: 47123
Faculty/Division: Temerty Faculty of Medicine
Department: Donnelly Centre
Campus: St. George (Downtown Toronto)
Position Number: 00040759
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:

Within Temerty Medicine, the Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research is an interdisciplinary research institute where scientists make fundamental discoveries in biology to improve health. Our faculty, staff, and trainees apply cutting-edge tools in genome research, regenerative medicine, engineering, microfluidics, and computational biology, ultimately to gain new insights about how the human body works. Founded in 2005, the Centre is globally recognized as a leading biomedical research hub thanks to landmark discoveries in genetics, stem cells, and the molecular basis of disease, as well as state-of-the-art tools in the analysis of large-scale datasets.

As a Sequencing Specialist, you will utilize next generation sequencing methods and technology to support genomic research. Serving as a vital resource for laboratory activities, you will conduct DNA and RNA library construction for sequencing, as well as quantitation by using a Bioanalyzer, TapeStation, and real-time PCR. You will also be responsible for operating and preparing steps for Illumina Sequencers including DNA and RNA purification. You will provide detailed explanations and demonstrate laboratory procedures for individuals in the lab, as well as coordinate routine maintenance of lab equipment. To be successful is this role, you must be a highly motivated self-starter with excellent time management skills and the ability to manage and prioritize projects effectively.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Constructing proof of concept experiments to test different elements of the process while collecting experimental data, verifying results, and passing on findings
• Preparing draft statistical reports and summaries from data collected, updating and maintaining detailed documentation and records
• Serving as a technical resource on laboratory protocols, and experimental procedures and equipment; Providing detailed explanations and demonstrating procedures to students and/or employees on lab techniques when required
• Troubleshooting issues with lab equipment and/or workstations, liaising with service provider or contacts when laboratory equipment is malfunctioning or needs to be repaired or replaced, and order supplies with approval
• Applying established standards and procedural instructions when cleaning labs, rooms, equipment and washing and sterilizing glass ware

Essential Qualifications:

• Bachelors of Science (B.Sc.) in Molecular Biology, or acceptable equivalent combination of education and experience
• A minimum of two (2) years of relevant experience applying molecular biology techniques, with an emphasis on highly sensitive quantitative technologies
• Experience working with lab equipment for molecular biology and genetic research including (but not limited to): autoclaves, centrifuges, pipettes, electrophoresis assemblies, PCR & RT-qPCR machines, Agilent Bioanalyzer and TapeStation machines
• Experience with data preparation and analysis for manuscripts and presentation use
• Experience demonstrating techniques and protocols to new users
• Experience maintaining detailed and accurate records
• Strong ability to follow protocols
• Experience with Microsoft Office suite (e.g. Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.), Adobe and possess the capability to learn custom software applications
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to make decisions that may involve introducing variations to established procedures
• Must be detailed oriented and have good organizational skills
• Must be able to handle pressures of scientific deadlines and work collaboratively with a diverse group of colleagues
• Ability to perform experimental work independently and as a team, alongside Research Associates and the Principal Investigator within the lab for research project direction
• Sound judgment and decision-making skills with excellent communication (oral and written)
• Ability to prioritize, multitask and must be able to adapt to a high volume of work, and maintain ranked task priorities

Assets (Nonessential):

• Experience with Illumina sequencing technology is preferred including (but not limited to): Illumina MiSeq, Illumina NextSeq2000 and Illumina i100

To be successful in this role you will be:

• Articulate
• Organized
• Problem solver
• Self-directed
• Team player

This is a 12 month term position.

Closing Date: 03/13/2026, 11:59PM ET
Employee Group: USW
Appointment Type: Budget - Term
Schedule: Full-Time
Pay Scale Group & Hiring Zone:
USW Pay Band 09 -- $67,916. with an annual step progression to a maximum of $86,855. 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.