Laboratory Technician - Molecular Biology - Parasitology

University of Guelph; Guelph; On-site; CAD 52,000 - 68,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Guelph's LSD Animal Health Laboratory seeks a Laboratory Technician to perform parasitologic analyses and molecular biology tests to aid in identifying parasitic infections in animals. Responsibilities include sample reception, culture setup, and basic bacteriology, with fish necropsy and tissue collection.

The role requires a 3-year community college diploma in animal health technology (RVT/MLT preferred) and experience in a laboratory, strong safety knowledge, and ability to

Qualifications

• Three-year Community College diploma in animal health technology or related program (RVT or MLT preferred) plus some related experience.
• Demonstrated experience in veterinary parasitology and molecular biology tests; experience with PCR.
• Good understanding of veterinary terminology and laboratory safety (WHMIS).

Responsibilities

• Perform complex parasitologic analyses to aid in identification and diagnosis of parasitic infections.
• Conduct basic bacteriologic testing and various molecular biology tests including PCR.
• Fish necropsy and tissue collection; sample reception, processing and data entry.
• Manage samples in the LIMS, order reagents, maintain QC and equipment; ensure cleanliness and safety.

Skills

Parasitology

Molecular biology tests

PCR

Laboratory safety

Teamwork

Education

Diploma in animal health technology (RVT/MLT preferred)

Tools

LIMS

PCR instrumentation

Job description

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Laboratory Technician - Molecular Biology - Parasitology

Location: Guelph, ON, CA, N1G 2W1

Primary Category Page: Staff and Management

Division: LSD Animal Health Laboratory

Requisition ID: 2750

Department:LSD AHL Molecular Biology Mycoplasmology
Position covered by the Collective Agreement with USW Local 4120

Temporary full-time from08/17/2026to08/30/2027

If you are a current employee of the University of Guelph you must apply on the internal Career Page in order to be considered as an internal applicant.

Working in the Parasitology and Molecular Biology sections of the Animal Health Laboratory, the incumbent will perform complex parasitologic analyses to assist in the identification and diagnosis of parasitic infections in food-producing animals, companion animals, as well as domestic, exotic, and wild animals. The incumbent will perform basic bacteriologic testing, including: sample reception and disposal, culture set-up and they will provide technical specimen reception and data entry assistance. Tests may include a variety of molecular biology procedures on various types of samples. Responsibilities also include fish necropsy and processing for bacterial culture, tissue collection, and trimming for histologic evaluation; microscopic examination of fish skin scrapings and gill clippings; conducting routine molecular biology tests; sample receiving; sample preparation; manual and automated DNA/RNA extractions as well as receipt and log‑in of samples into the laboratory information management system (LIMS); ordering, maintaining QC on reagents, chemicals and other lab supplies; maintaining equipment; ensuring laboratory cleanliness and safety.

Requirements

Requirements of the position include: Three-year Community College diploma in animal health technology or related program (Registered Veterinary Technologist (RVT) or Medical Laboratory Technologist (MLT) preferred) plus some related experience in a laboratory environment, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Demonstrated experience in conducting veterinary parasitology and molecular biology tests; demonstrated experience conducting a variety of molecular tests such as PCR; good understanding of veterinary terminology; experience with handling live fish in a laboratory setting; excellent knowledge of personal and laboratory safety related to handling and disposal of infectious specimens; demonstrated organizational, oral/written communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively both as a member of a team and independently; excellent knowledge of laboratory chemicals and supplies; strong attention to detail; knowledge of Occupational Health and Safety and WHMIS legislation in a laboratory environment; good understanding of analytical laboratory quality procedures and statistics. Must be rabies immunized.

Individual must be able to work 5 days per week (Monday to Friday and/or Tuesday to Saturday), 7 hours per day; may include variable starting times.

Employee Type: Temporary
Position Number:10927768
Classification: USW, Local 4120 Salary:Band 5

*Tentative evaluation; subject to final review.

At the University of Guelph, fostering a culture of inclusion is an institutional imperative. The University invites and encourages applications from all qualified individuals, including from groups that are traditionally underrepresented in employment, who may contribute to further diversification of our Institution.

Posting Date:08/10/2026
Closing Date:08/17/2026