Research Technician

Queen's University; Kingston; On-site; CAD 52,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario invites applications for a Research Technician to support projects on liquid biopsies for metastatic breast cancer. The role involves processing blood samples, DNA extraction from plasma, performing liquid biopsies, and analyzing sequencing data under minimal supervision.

Collaborating with the PI, trainees and medical staff, you will help develop scalable protocols, maintain equipment, and assist with data presentation and reports while ensuring health

Qualifications

• Two- or three-year post-secondary program in laboratory techniques or a related field.
• University degree within a relevant field considered an asset.
• Fluency in computer skills including Microsoft Office Applications.
• Previous experience with Next Generation Sequencing pipelines and analysis is considered an asset.

Responsibilities

• Process blood samples and extract DNA from plasma samples collected.
• Carry out liquid biopsies, analyze Next Generation Sequencing data.
• In conjunction with the PI develop appropriate protocols for the large-scale processing of samples.
• Compile, organize and analyze data using special computer programs to aid in the research, analysis & presentation of data.
• Present data to the PI and lab members in written reports and/or verbally at lab meetings.
• Maintain lab space and equipment in accordance with health and safety regulations and perform preventive maintenance procedures.
• Interact with trainees and medical staff at various locations in support of the project objectives.
• Perform administrative tasks related to the research project.
• Answer general inquiries and refer problems to PI.
• Contribute to teaching experimental methods and techniques to trainees.
• Supervise students, ensuring compliance to proper ethics and safety protocols.
• Undertake other duties as delegated by the PI in support of the project.

Skills

Lab technique proficiency

Analytical skills

Written and verbal communication

Attention to detail

Education

Two- or three-year post-secondary program in laboratory techniques

University degree in a relevant field

Tools

Next Generation Sequencing

Microsoft Office

Job description

Reporting to the Principal Investigator (PI), the Research Technician will work with minimum supervision on projects relating to the use of liquid biopsies for the management of metastatic breast cancer. The incumbent will process blood samples, extract DNA from plasma, carry out liquid biopsies, analyze Next Generation Sequencing data and provide support with data analysis. The development of appropriate protocols for the large-scale processing of samples in conjunction with the PI is also anticipated. The ability to work well in a team is an essential aspect of this position, which will also involve interacting with trainees as well as medical staff in various locations.

Job Description

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Process blood samples and extract DNA from plasma samples collected.
• Carry out liquid biopsies, analyze Next Generation Sequencing data.
• In conjunction with the PI develop appropriate protocols for the large-scale processing of samples.
• Compile, organize and analyze data using special computer programs to aid in the research, analysis & presentation of data.
• Present data to the PI and lab members in written reports and/or verbally at lab meetings.
• Maintain lab space and equipment in accordance with health and safety regulations and perform preventive maintenance procedures.
• Interact with trainees and medical staff at various locations in support of the project objectives.
• Perform administrative tasks related to the research project.
• Answer general inquiries and refer problems to PI.
• Contribute to teaching experimental methods and techniques to trainees.
• Supervise students, ensuring compliance to proper ethics and safety protocols.
• Undertake other duties as delegated by the PI in support of the project.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Two- or three-year post-secondary program in laboratory techniques or a related field.
• University degree within a relevant field considered an asset.
• Previous experience in a clinical research environment is considered an asset.
• Previous Good Clinical Practice (ICH-GCP), Biohazard Level 2 training and Human Blood, Tissues, and Bodily Fluids Biohazard training is considered an asset.
• Fluency in computer skills including Microsoft Office Applications.
• Previous experience with Next Generation Sequencing pipelines and analysis is considered an asset.
• Consideration may be given to an equivalent combination of education and experience.

SPECIAL SKILLS

• Able to promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
• Organizational/analytical skills and ability to coordinate workflow. Judgement may be required in applying scientific principles to obtain accurate and relevant experimental results.
• Technical proficiency in the use of lab equipment and precision instruments.
• Ability to work with computers and use common office software for databases.
• Possess technical/scientific communication skills (written and verbal).
• Attention to detail and ability to perform careful measurements and interpret basic experimental results.
• Ability to learn quickly and adapt protocols as needs change (within guidelines).

DECISION MAKING

• Decide on optimal protocol and equipment to use in running an experiment, and decide on steps to take when assigned a new project.
• Determine how to deal with breakdowns and errors. Decide if problem can be resolved personally or if supervisor or equipment manufacturers should be involved.
• Determine best way to correct minor methodological deviations.
• Direct research inquiries to the proper person, or supply the answer if appropriate.
• Allocate and organize lab space.
• Prioritize time and determine most efficient use of personal resources within set of priorities outlined by supervisor.
• Assist in the generation of various documents and reports, and provide input where appropriate. Participate and act as resource person in the production of more complex publications.
• Determine drawing layout/arrangement and presentation.