research assistant

UBC The University of British Columbia; Electoral Area A; Vor Ort; CAD 49.000 - 52.000; Vollzeit

Zusammenfassung

The University of British Columbia is seeking a Research Assistant in the Plant Cell Wall Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Laboratory to support sample preparation, extraction, analysis, and research logistics under Dr. Mansfield.

This CUPE 116 position collaborates with post-docs and graduate students in a dynamic lab environment. Primary responsibilities include collecting plant samples across BC, preparing and extracting samples, and performing data entry and data summaries.

Qualifikationen

• High school graduation with at least 1 year of related experience or equivalent
• Willingness to respect diverse perspectives and inclusion principles
• Understanding of plant cell wall chemistry and structure
• Knowledge of tree chemistry analytical techniques

Aufgaben

• Collect samples from sites throughout BC
• Prepare plant samples (dry and grind)
• Extract samples with organic solvents using Soxhlet and Extreva extractors
• Conduct routine chemical analyses (Klason, thioacidolysis) per instructions
• Enter data and prepare summaries

Kenntnisse

Plant cell wall chemistry

Tree chemistry analysis

Diversity & inclusion awareness

Ausbildung

High school diploma

Tools

Klason analysis

Thioacidolysis

Jobbeschreibung

Staff - Union Job Category CUPE 116

Job Profile CUPE 116 Salaried - Research Assistant /Technician 1

Job Title research assistant

Department Biotechnology & Chemistry of Wood Fibres Research | Department of Wood Science | Faculty of Forestry and Environmental Stewardship

Compensation Range $4,399.00 - $4,615.00 CAD Monthly

Posting End Date October 13, 2026

Job End Date January 31, 2027

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 The cell wall chemistry research assistant (RA) will participate in sample preparation, sample extraction, sample analysis, and research logistics.

Organizational Status This position is in the new Plant Cell Wall Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Laboratory, led by Dr. Shawn Mansfield in the Department of Wood Science. The RA will support research by Dr. Mansfield and his post-docs and graduate students; they may be assisted by undergraduates on some projects.

Core responsibilities

• Collect samples sites throughout BC
• Prepare plant samples (dry and grind samples)
• Extract samples with organic solvents, using Soxhlet extractor and Extreva extractor
• Undertake routine chemical analysis of plant samples (Klason analysis; thioacidolysis) following detailed instructions.
• Any unexpected results will be referred to the researcher.
• Enter data, format data for analyses and prepare data summaries

Consequence of Error/Judgement

The RA will have access to Dr. Mansfield’s post-docs/grad students to help make decisions in the lab or via phone or Slack messaging. However, they will need to make decisions about safe conditions to complete laboratory work based on standard chemical laboratory safety plans.

Supervision Received

Dr. Mansfield and his postdocs will provide primary supervision in the lab. Training will be provided for the skill set needed for project. Updates will be provided on request or as needed as projects evolve.

Supervision Given

For repetitive tasks (e.g., plant sample grinding and extractions) the RA will supervise undergraduate research assistants.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school graduation and a minimum one year 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
• An understanding to plant cell wall chemistry and structure
• Knowledge of tree chemistry analytical techniques

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience conducting plant biomass extraction with organic solvents
• Previous work measuring plant chemistry using the Klason and thioacidolysis techniques
• Motivated to work in a diverse team including highly motivated plant cell wall biochemists and molecular biologists.

The University of British Columbia is a global centre for research and teaching, consistently ranked among the top 20 public universities globally. A large part of what makes us unique is the community of engaged students, faculty, and staff who are collectively committed to shaping a better world. Recognized as a leading employer in British Columbia and Canada, UBC supports inspired students, faculty and staff on their journey of discovery, and challenges them to realize their greatest potential. New ideas, changing infrastructure, innovative technology, and fresh approaches are opening up possibilities for the future of research, teaching, and work. Are you ready to embrace the future together?

Equity and diversity are essential to academic excellence. An open and diverse community fosters the inclusion of voices that have been underrepresented or discouraged.

We encourage applications from members of groups that have been marginalized on any grounds enumerated under the B.C. Human Rights Code, including sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, racialization, disability, political belief, religion, marital or family status, age, and/or status as a First Nation, Metis, Inuit, and/or Indigenous person.

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.

If you have any accommodation or accessibility needs during the job application process, please contact the Centre for Workplace Accessibility at [e-mail].