Lab Assistant Virology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine

University of Calgary; Calgary; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in veterinary medicine is seeking a dedicated Lab Assistant in Virology for a full-time fixed-term position. This role involves assisting in research projects, processing diagnostic samples, and ensuring laboratory safety and compliance with established protocols. The ideal candidate will have a background in health sciences or biology, basic laboratory skills, and a keen attention to detail. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to impactful research while working in a dynamic and supportive environment. If you are passionate about laboratory work and eager to make a difference, this role is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• BSc in health sciences or biology with lab experience required.
• Experience in virology and basic lab techniques is essential.

Responsibilities

• Assist in research projects and diagnostic sample processing.
• Maintain laboratory safety and adhere to established SOPs.

Skills

Basic laboratory skills

Organizational skills

Attention to detail

Teamwork skills

Education

BSc or technical degree in laboratory or health sciences

Degree in biology or related field

Tools

PCR

ELISA

Excel

Job description

Description

The Faculty of Veterinary Medicine invites applications for a Lab Assistant Virology. This Full-time Fixed Term position is for approximately 6 months (based on length of grant funding), with the possibility of extension.

Reporting to the Principal Investigator.

Work will involve exposure to biohazardous materials and ability to work in a research environment where animal tissue, samples and excrements are processed. Having basic laboratory skills is a requirement, experience with tissue culture, PCR and ELISA an asset.

This position is located at Foothills Campus, but may require work at the Spy Hill Campus in the post mortem room.

Summary of Key Responsibilities (job functions include but are not limited to):

RESEARCH

• Assisting PI and graduate students on research projects
• Assisting with diagnostic sample processing and analyses
• Subsample wildlife and other animal sample material, label, and organize these samples
• Enter data into excel data sheet or database
• Assist lab members on various tasks as required
• May be involved in additional research projects, as required and when time is available
• Reports any malfunctioning laboratory equipment or depleted consumable laboratory supplies to the lab technician

LABORATORY OPERATIONS

• The laboratory environment is safe for all stakeholders and is operated within established SOPs
• Will contribute to the establishment/development of SOP and ensure they are adhered to by self and all laboratory users such as students, faculty, external clients and researchers
• Other integral duties may also include preparing standard chemical solutions and reagents, proper disposal of laboratory waste, assisting to maintain the laboratory to conform to safety standards, and the continuous and safe operation of lab instruments
• Maintains confidentiality, adheres to safety regulations, and is flexible in providing assistance in other areas as required

Qualifications / Requirements:

• BSc or technical degree in laboratory or health sciences, or biology, or related field
• Experience working on virology, general laboratory techniques
• 1-3 years of work experience in a related field
• Basic laboratory techniques proficiency, preferable experience with molecular techniques
• Possessing WHMIS and bio-safety level 1 & 2 training desirable, or a willingness to become certified required
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail as well as ability to work under indirect supervision
• Demonstrated teamwork skills
• A thorough knowledge of or willingness to learn sanitation, disinfection, and sterilization principles

Application Deadline: January 9, 2025

We would like to thank all applicants in advance for submitting their resumes. Please note, only those candidates chosen to continue on through the selection process will be contacted.

This position is part of the AUPE bargaining unit, and falls under the Technical Job Family, Phase 1.