Research Technician

Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization; Saskatoon; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

The Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization is seeking a technician to support research in virology. The successful candidate will manage lab resources, perform experiments, and document data, working in a high containment environment. Ideal candidates will have an MSc, PhD, or DVM in a relevant field and experience in molecular biology techniques.

Qualifications

• Eligible for HPTA security clearance preferred.
• Experience in CL3 facility preferred.
• Proficiency in nucleic acid extraction, cloning, PCR, qPCR.

Responsibilities

• Manage laboratory resources and document procedures.
• Perform experimental activities in high containment.
• Work may require weekend lab access.

Skills

Mammalian cell culture

Molecular biology techniques

Data analysis (R or Python)

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Education

MSc, PhD, or DVM in biology, microbiology, virology, or related discipline

Job description

The Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO), Canada’s Centre for Pandemic Research, is a world leader in infectious disease research and vaccine development for humans and animals. Located at the University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon, Canada, VIDO is home to one of the largest and most advanced containment level 3 facilities in the world. To strengthen the preparedness for emerging infectious diseases we are currently expanding our infrastructure to include containment level 4 capacity, a GMP vaccine manufacturing facility, and a new animal housing facility. Our vision includes having the capacity to study any emerging disease in any animal model embracing a One Health approach to prevent emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases in humans and animals.

Dr. Angela (Angie) Rasmussen’s research laboratory at VIDO focuses on the role of the host in virus susceptibility and pathogenesis. We have a particular interest in emerging viruses that are or have the potential to be major threats to global health, such as avian influenza virus, Ebola virus, mpox (monkeypox) virus, MERS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2. Our work combines classical experimental virology and animal models with systems biology approaches to study the global response to infection and how that contributes to pathogenesis or protection from emerging pathogens.

We are recruiting a technician for our group. Reporting to Dr. Angela Rasmussen, the successful candidate will be integral to the daily operations of the lab and the execution of research projects. This role involves performing experimental activities, managing laboratory resources, and meticulously documenting procedures and data. Given the nature of the work, this position will require extensive work in high containment and may occasionally require coming into the lab on weekends.

Qualifications

• An MSc, PhD, or DVM in biology, microbiology, virology, or related discipline.
• Must be eligible to obtain HPTA (Human Pathogens and Toxins Act) security clearance from the Public Health Agency of Canada. Current or pending HPTA clearance is preferred.
• Prior experience working in a containment level 3 (CL3) facility is preferred. This position requires the candidate to undertake CL3 training and work extensively in CL3 containment.
• Demonstrated experience and proficiency with mammalian cell culture.
• Proficiency in standard molecular biology techniques (e.g., nucleic acid extraction, cloning, PCR, qPCR).
• Experience with next-generation sequencing workflows, including nucleic acid quality control, library preparation, and optimization.
• Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and record-keeping abilities.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Prior experience with R or Python for data analysis is an asset.

Status:Permanent

Employment Group:Non-Union

Shift:Monday - Friday, 7.5 hours per day (37.5 hours per week); some requirement for weekend work

Full Time Equivalent (FTE):1.0

The successful applicant will be required to provide the following current verification(s) where 'Yes' is indicated below. Further information is available at:https://careers.usask.ca/tips-for-applying.php#Howtoapplyforaposition

Facility Access Screening including Criminal Record Check:Yes

Driver's License and Abstract Check:Not Applicable

Education/Credential Verification:Yes

Vulnerable Sector Check:Not Applicable

Interested candidates are asked to submit their application including a cover letter, CV, and the names of three references online.

Review of applications will begin immediately; however, applications will be accepted and evaluated until the position is filled. We thank all applicants for their interest; only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

For more information visit: vido.org

Note:The University believes equity, diversity, and inclusion strengthen the community and enhance excellence, innovation and creativity. We are dedicated to recruiting individuals who will enrich our work and learning environments. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, in accordance with Canadian immigration requirements, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority. We are committed to providing accommodations to those with a disability or medical necessity. If you require an accommodation in order to participate in the recruitment process, please notify us and we will work together on the accommodation request. The University of Saskatchewan’s main campus is situated on Treaty 6 Territory and the Homeland of the Métis. We pay our respects to the First Nations and Métis ancestors of this place and reaffirm our relationship with one another. Together, we are uplifting Indigenization to a place of prominence at the University of Saskatchewan.