Research Scientist

This competition is open to all applicants however; internal candidates and applicants who were former employees of the University of Alberta will be given priority consideration before external candidates. Please log in to verify your internal candidate status.

This position has an initial appointment of 4 months.

Location - This role is in-person. Work primarily takes place at North Campus, Edmonton.

The Research Scientist will join a project related to liquid biopsies for cancer and novel imaging development and testing. This will involve development of novel assays to quantify levels of miRNA cancer biomarkers in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. It will involve wet lab work, computer programming for automation and data analysis, histopathology work, assisting with animal experiments, and assisting other members of the research team as needed.

Responsibilities

• Designs individual experiments, data collection protocols and standards under the supervision of the Principal Investigator.
• Determines most appropriate methodology to meet identified research goals.
• Oversees/conducts data collection. Conducts advanced analysis of research data and results.
• Summarizes, analyzes and organizes data for publication. Participates in the writing of research papers, the preparation of presentations and/or other publications. May be considered as a co-author or presenter.
• May be responsible for the maintenance and efficient operation of the lab (e.g., specialized lab equipment maintenance and calibration).
• May guide technical staff or students in the lab.
• May advise on specialized technical procedures or equipment.
• Specific Research Tasks:
  • Perform experiments related to quantitative Polymerase Chain reaction and reverse transcription of miRNA biomarkers. Perform sonication and microbubble synthesis work.
  • Maintain cell cultures and perform spike-in experiments for liquid biopsy research.
  • Assist with histopathology, microscopy and other methods for tissue and cell analysis.
  • Write computer programs for data analysis and to program lab equipment.
  • Design and conduct experiments related to trapping of cells in blood samples.
  • Help with research collaborations and assist other team members as needed.

Qualifications

• MSc in Biomedical Engineering, Biology or related fields.
• Experience (ideally >2 years experience) with PCR, reverse transcription, cell culture, and ideally experience with statistical analysis, data analysis, and basic computer programming.
• Experience with microscopy, cell counting, pipetting, and aseptic technique is essential.
• Familiarity with Python, Matlab, R, or similar programming language (>2 years) will be an asset.
• Familiarity with robotic fluid handling systems and their programming will be an asset.Experience with ultrasonic technology, animal protocol development and animal handling and imaging with ultrasound will be an asset.

This position offers a salary range of $65,369 to $73,544. This position is not eligible for benefits.

The terms and conditions of this appointment are governed by Schedule E of the Collective Agreement between the Board of Governors of the University of Alberta and the Association of the Academic Staff of the University of Alberta.

About Us

The University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, Métis, Inuit and all FirstPeoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.

The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide.

Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people - from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. Learn more .

At the University of Alberta, we are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates. If you require accommodations to participate in the interview process, please let us know at the time of booking your interview and we will make every effort to accommodate your needs.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.

All University employees have a responsibility to foster a workplace that prioritizes safety in all its forms—physical, cultural, and psychological. This is achieved by promoting a safe environment, adhering to all safety laws, policies and procedures, completing all required safety training, identifying hazards and implementing controls, reporting incidents, and contributing to a culture of belonging and respect, while endeavoring to ensure that all colleagues feel valued and safe to express their thoughts, perspectives and concerns.

We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women, First Nations, Métis and Inuit persons, members of visible minority groups, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression, and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and the University to apply.

L’Université de l’Alberta s’engage à créer une communauté universitaire où chaque personne se sent valorisée, où les obstacles à la réussite sont éliminés et où des connexions enrichissantes peuvent se développer. Nous accueillons les demandes de toutes les personnes qualifiées. Nous encourageons les femmes; Premières nations, Métis et Inuits; membres des groupes minoritaires visibles; personnes handicapées; personnes de toute orientation sexuelle ou identité et expression de genre; et toutes les personnes qui peuvent contribuer à la diversification des idées et à l'université à postuler.

About The Team

The Faculty of Engineering is one of North America’s top engineering schools, known for innovation, collaboration, and impact. It fosters an exceptional student experience through a holistic approach that combines technical excellence with emotional intelligence. With strong community engagement, interdisciplinary research, and a commitment to societal well-being, the faculty prepares students to lead in a rapidly evolving, global engineering landscape.

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