Research Assistant I

Waterloo International; Southwestern Ontario; Hybrid; CAD 47,000 - 59,000; Part time

Job summary

University of Waterloo is seeking a Research Assistant I to support Dr. Kesen Ma and staff in microbiology and molecular biology tasks. The role involves basic lab duties, data collection, and literature review in a busy research environment.

The position is part-time (20 hours/week) for 4 months within the Biology Department, paying a salary that reflects a combined full-time range and part-time adjustment. Applicants should have a BSc or equivalent and lab experience.

Qualifications

• Completion of a BSc degree or equivalent education and experience in biology, microbiology, molecular biology, or biotechnology is preferred.
• Demonstrated laboratory experience in microbiology/molecular biology is preferred.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to university policies is expected.

Responsibilities

• Assist in general laboratory maintenance and organization.
• Support day-to-day operations of the lab(s) and restock materials as required.
• Prepare materials for experiments according to research specifications and maintain records/databases.

Skills

Lab skills

Attention to detail

Communication

Data management

Education

BSc degree or equivalent

Biology/Microbiology background

Tools

Excel

Word

Job description

## Research Assistant IApply: Waterloo, Ontario, Canada: Part time: Posted 2 Days Ago: 2026-02805At the University of Waterloo, we create and promote a culture where everyone can reach their full potential. As an employee, you get support & opportunities that empower you to advance your career. Explore how we can bring big ideas to life, together. The University is a welcoming workplace for those of all abilities, interests, and expertise. As part of our workforce, you can do what you do best, every day. Learn more about our recruitment process.**Job Requisition ID:**2026-02805**Time Type:**Part time**Employee Group:**Staff**Job Category:**Research and Innovation**Employment Type:**Temporary**Department:**Faculty of Science - Biology - Administration**Hiring Range:**$47,210.94 - $59,013.67**Posting Information:**This posting is for an existing vacancy.This position is being offered as a temporary contract. Term: 4 monthsPlease note that the salary range listed reflects full-time hours. The final salary will be adjusted based on the part-time hours for this position. This position is 20 hours a week.**Job Description:**Primary PurposeThe Research Assistant I will work in a supported learning environment to assist Dr. Kesen Ma and other research staff, as applicable, with various research activities. This position will work in the Department of Biology at the University of Waterloo. The Research Assistant will conduct laboratory activities in microbiology and molecular biology including, but not limited to, growth of microorganisms, molecular biology procedures (DNA extraction, gene cloning and expression, PCR), reagent preparation, laboratory maintenance and perform related duties as assigned.Key Accountabilities.Research Support:• Duties may include but are not limited to the following:o General laboratory maintenance and organizationo Assistance in the day to day operations of the lab(s)o Restocking research materialso Preparation of materials for experiments according to research specificationso Maintains research related records and databases, entering data according to established protocolso Carries out simple tests and measurementso Assist with routine tasks in data collection, sampling, identification and research preparationo Provide general assistance with research participants, fieldwork, and collection of specimens/data, as requiredo Performs basic literature researcho Assists with special projects and other duties related to the researchRequired QualificationsEducation• Completion of a BSc degree or equivalent education and experience• Degree in the field of biology, microbiology, molecular biology, or biotechnology is preferredExperience• Demonstrated laboratory experience in microbiology/molecular biology is preferred.• Demonstrated ability to maintain strict confidentiality.• Knowledge of University of Waterloo policies and procedures is an asset.Knowledge/Skills/Abilities• Intermediate computer skills and knowledge of software applications used in an office/lab setting, including word and excel.• Proven high-quality customer service interactions with faculty, staff and students.• Proven aptitude for attention to detail.• Demonstrated decision-making and independent problem solving skills• Excellent communication skills, oral and written. **Equity Statement** The University of Waterloo acknowledges that much of our work takes place on the traditional territory of the Neutral, Anishinaabeg, and Haudenosaunee peoples. Our main campus is situated on the Haldimand Tract, the land granted to the Six Nations that includes six miles on each side of the Grand River. Our active work toward reconciliation takes place across our campuses through research, learning, teaching, and community building, and is coordinated within the Office of Indigenous Relations. The University values the diverse and intersectional identities of its students, faculty, and staff. The University regards equity and diversity as an integral part of academic excellence and is committed to accessibility for all employees. The University of Waterloo seeks applicants who embrace our values of equity, anti-racism and inclusion. As such, we encourage applications from candidates who have been historically disadvantaged and marginalized, including applicants who identify as First Nations, Métis and/or Inuk (Inuit), Black, racialized, a person with a disability, women and/or 2SLGBTQ+. Positions are open to qualified candidates who are legally entitled to work in Canada. The University of Waterloo is committed to accessibility for persons with disabilities. If you have any application, interview, or workplace accommodation requests, please contact Human Resources at [e-mail] or 519-888-4567, ext. 45935.