Laboratory Technician in Molecular Fish Biology

University of British Columbia - Staff; Vancouver; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 80,000; Part time

Job summary

The University of British Columbia is seeking a part-time Laboratory Technician for its Molecular Fish Biology research project. Responsibilities include conducting DNA extractions, performing laboratory and field experiments, managing supplies, and supervising undergraduate students. This position offers an opportunity to work on funded research in a collaborative environment dedicated to diversity and inclusion.

Qualifications

• Minimum three years of related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Knowledge of PCR and genotyping, experience with CRISPR injections of embryos is an asset.

Responsibilities

• Conducts DNA extractions and lab experiments on fishes.
• Maintains lab equipment and oversees undergraduate assistants.
• Organizes logistics for multi-day field research trips.

Skills

Molecular biology

Laboratory safety

Animal care principles

Data management

Interpersonal skills

Attention to detail

Education

University degree (MSc or BSc) in Biological Sciences

Completion of relevant technical program

Job description

Staff - Union

Job Category CUPE 116 Job ProfileCUPE 116 Salaried - Research Assistant /Technician 3 Job Title Laboratory Technician in Molecular Fish Biology Department Research | Schluter | Department of Zoology | Faculty of Science Compensation Range $4,757.00 - $5,187.00 CAD Monthly Posting End Date June 30, 2025

Note: Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on the Posting End Date.

Job End Date

Jul 31, 2026

This is a part-time 53.5% FTE leave replacement position for 12 months with possibility of extension. The compensation range displayed is of full time. Salary for this position will be pro-rated for 53.5% FTE.

At UBC, we believe that attracting and sustaining a diverse workforce is key to the successful pursuit of excellence in research, innovation, and learning for all faculty, staff and students. Our commitment to employment equity helps achieve inclusion and fairness, brings rich diversity to UBC as a workplace, and creates the necessary conditions for a rewarding career.

Job Summary
A part-time technician is required in July 2025 for 12 months (with the possibility of extension). Work will include DNA extractions, lab and field experiments on fishes, sample analysis, organizing field trips, ordering supplies, maintaining lab equipment in good working order, assisting graduate students, supervising undergraduate assistants, and all aspects of fish care including reporting. This is a leave replacement position. Project is funded by NSERC.

Organizational Status
Position reports directly to the PI on a weekly basis and in case of emergency. The technician will also work closely with graduate students and postdocs. Reports to the Administrator, Zoology, for administrative matters .

Work Performed

-Establishes and maintains lab cultures of fish; tasks will include monitoring water quality and fish health, cleaning aquariums and tools, identify gravid females and perform artificial crosses of fish; raise larval fish from crosses to maturity; assist with fish euthanasia; maintain brood stocks

-Ensures full lab compliance with safety and animal care and welfare standards.

-Writes lab protocols for animal care and other procedures.

-Organizes logistics, scheduling, and personnel for multi-day field research trips.

-Molecular biology procedures, including DNA extractions and NanoDrop spectrophotometric quantification, DNA library construction, and CRISPR injection of fish embryos.

-Conducts genetic crosses and assists with crossing experimental design.

-Assists with experiments in the lab by checking on experiments and conducting routine measurements, identifying problems and solutions.

-Lifting and transporting aquaria and other equipment.

-Maintains equipment in the lab and lab vehicle.

-Assists lab researchers with lab and experiment-related tasks.

-Train and delegate tasks to volunteers and undergraduate student assistants working in the lab.

-Data management.

-Maintains supplies and manages orders.

-Performed other related duties as required.

Consequence of Error/Judgement

Errors could delay the overall progress of the project and cause loss of research materials. It is expected to exercised initiative and judgement in solving problems, keeping PI informed. Major problems are referred to the PI. Guidelines will be established by the PI.

Supervision Received
Receives instructions during orientation, thereafter on new assignments or changes in procedures. Work is subject to check by the PI. Errors and incorrect decisions will be followed up by further training.

Supervision Given
Train, oversee and direct the work of undergraduate research assistants and volunteers working in the lab. Is responsible for the accuracy, production, and control of their work.

Minimum Qualifications
Completion of a relevant technical program or a university degree in a relevant discipline and a minimum three years of related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

- 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

University degree (MSc or BSc or an equivalent combination of education and experience) in Biological Sciences or a related field that includes statistics and writing courses and demonstrated scientific writing . The following experience is required: knowledge of PCR and genotyping and experience troubleshooting reaction conditions; experience measuring fish specimens; experience breeding and caring for fish; experience in field collection methods for aquatic organisms. Experience with CRISPR injections of embryos is an asset. Good interpersonal skills are required. Candidate will be required to take CCAC course on the principles of animal care and the ethical issues involved in animal use, and Laboratory Safety courses. The work needs accuracy, attention to detail, and the ability to multitask and work alone. Demonstrated ability to reliably carry out instructions without ongoing directions, within a team environment. Strong communication skills, a good work ethic, and regular work habits are required . Willingness to respect diverse perspectives, including perspectives in conflict with one’s own. Ability to drive a pickup truck.