Research Associate

University of British Columbia - Staff; Vancouver; On-site; CAD 85,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player seeks a Research Associate to lead software development in an innovative lab focused on automation and robotics. This full-time role involves defining research goals, mentoring students, and creating Python scripts for laboratory automation. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with a diverse team, contributing to high-quality research outputs, including publications and funding applications. This position offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of chemistry and technology, making significant contributions to advancing research in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Qualifications

• PhD in Chemistry with 3+ years of related experience required.
• Demonstrated experience in laboratory automation and software orchestration.

Responsibilities

• Define and develop research project goals and conduct research.
• Mentor graduate and undergraduate researchers to meet project milestones.
• Create Python scripts for automation and instrument control.

Skills

Laboratory Automation

Software Orchestration

Python Programming

Problem Solving

Mentoring

Education

PhD in Chemistry

Tools

Automation Software

Job description

Academic

Job Category: Faculty Non Bargaining Job Title: Research Associate Department: Research | Hein Lab | Department of Chemistry | Faculty of Science (Jason Hein) Posting End Date: May 1, 2025

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

Job End Date: Apr 30, 2027

The expected pay range for this position is $85,000 - $100,000 annually.

Powered by the Acceleration Consortium (AC) and the Canada First Research Excellence Fund (CFREF), the Hein Lab builds self-driving laboratories dedicated to process chemistry, leveraging tools from both classical and modern physical organic chemistry as well as advancements in robotics and artificial intelligence to understand and optimize chemical reactions. This full-time position leads the software development and implementation of robotic and automation workflows.

Work Performed:

1. Defines and develops research project goals, milestones and timelines, and conducts research in support of the UBC-CFREF funded initiative.
2. Works independently and with other researchers and staff both internally and in the AC network.
3. Mentors graduate and undergraduate student researchers through meetings and guidance in research work to meet project milestones.
4. Creates and modifies Python scripts to run in-house developed automation including instrument control GUIs for individual experimental requirements.
5. Contributes to high-quality outputs, including journal publications, conference presentations, and funding applications and reports.

Qualifications:

1. A PhD degree in Chemistry and a minimum of three years of related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
2. Demonstrated experience with laboratory automation and software orchestration.
3. Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment and tact to analyze problems, identify issues, and propose solutions.

Organizational Status:

The incumbent reports to the Principal Investigator (Dr. Jason Hein), Professor in the Department of Chemistry at the University of British Columbia (UBC). The cross-functional nature of the research carried out in the Hein Lab necessitates close cooperation and effective teamwork. The incumbent will work closely alongside other researchers and staff in a collaborative team environment.

Supervision Received:

The incumbent works independently under the general direction of the Principal Investigator and/or other group staff members. Initiates and follows up from brief instruction while independently exercising sound judgment within areas of responsibility.

Supervision Given:

Mentors and/or oversees graduate and undergraduate students regarding the research and its deliverables.

The anticipated start date is May 1st, 2025, or a date to be mutually agreed upon. The initial appointment is for two years with the possibility of renewal.

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, or Indigenous person. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents of Canada will be given priority.

Please indicate your legal status to work in Canada.