Research Assistant Technician II

University of Guelph; Guelph; On-site; CAD 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A Canadian educational institution is seeking a Laboratory Technician for a temporary position to support DNA extraction and purification for genomic analysis. The successful candidate will operate automated laboratory instruments, perform high-throughput PCR, and maintain laboratory records. Candidates should have a background in molecular biology and strong attention to detail in a collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• 2–3 years of post-secondary education including a molecular biology laboratory course.
• Some practical experience in a laboratory setting.

Responsibilities

• Prepare, validate, and dispense reagents for high-throughput workflows.
• Extract and purify DNA and voucher samples.
• Perform high-throughput PCR using standard and customized reagents.
• Conduct quality control checks via agarose gel electrophoresis.
• Record and transmit data using LIMS and MS SharePoint.
• Collaborate with laboratory staff to coordinate tasks.

Skills

Attention to detail

Organizational skills

Interpersonal communication

Ability to work under deadlines

Experience in a laboratory setting

Education

Post-secondary education with a molecular biology course

Tools

LIMS

MS SharePoint

Automated laboratory instruments

Job description

Location:

Guelph, CA, N1G 2W1

Primary Category Page: Staff and Management

Division: College of Biological Science

Requisition ID: 1662

Department: Centre for Biodiversity Genomics

This position is classified under the Grant and Trust Administrative & Technical Group

Temporary full-time from 09/15/2025 to 09/14/2026

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.

Career Opportunities (sapsf.com)

General Purpose

The Canadian Centre for DNA Barcoding (CCDB) is a globally recognized provider of DNA-based species identification services, working with over 200 institutions across 52 countries. As the core facility for the International Barcode of Life (iBOL, ibol.org) and its BIOSCAN research program (biodiversitygenomics.net/research/bioscan), the CCDB supports large-scale biodiversity research by processing high volumes of biological specimens—from tissue samples to DNA barcodes—using a range of extraction methods and sequencing technologies.

To support this mission, the CCDB is seeking a Laboratory Technician for an immediate, temporary (renewable) position.

The successful candidate will be responsible for preparing high-quality DNA extracts and related samples for genomic analysis, including PCR and DNA sequencing. Duties will include operating automated laboratory instruments (e.g., Biomek Liquid Handling robots), data recording and reporting, and maintaining accurate laboratory records. The technician will also participate in inventory control, sample audits, and uphold laboratory health and safety standards.

Duties And Responsibilities

• Prepare, validate, and dispense reagents for high-throughput workflows.
• Extract and purify DNA and voucher samples following established protocols and SOPs, accommodating a variety of specimen types and tissue conditions.
• Perform high-throughput PCR using standard and customized reagents and protocols.
• Conduct quality control checks such as PCR verification via agarose gel electrophoresis, when required.
• Record and transmit data using LIMS, MS SharePoint, and other electronic databases.
• Collaborate with laboratory staff to coordinate tasks and scheduling.
• Support internal audits, and contribute to the maintenance and cleanliness of lab workspaces.
  
  

Requirements

• 2–3 years of post-secondary education, including at least one molecular biology laboratory course.
• Some practical experience in a laboratory setting is required.
  
  

Additional Requirements

• Strong attention to detail and ability to work in a high-throughput environment.
• Proficiency with standard computer software (e.g., MS Office).
• Capable of working under tight deadlines with minimal supervision.
• Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and written/oral communication skills.
• Awareness of occupational health & safety practices and WHMIS in a lab environment.
• Self-motivated, with a collaborative and team-oriented approach.
  
  

Preferred Experience

• Work experience in an accredited laboratory setting.
• Experience with nucleic acid extraction, PCR, and DNA sequencing.
• Familiarity with automated sample processing systems.
• Competence in analyzing and interpreting DNA sequence data using specialized software.
  
  

Employee Type: Temporary

Classification: Grant/ Trust fund position, Band GTAT - Band B

GTAT (Grant & Trust Administrative and Technical) Salary Grid

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: 08/05/2025

Close Date: 08/22/2025