Research Technician I

Ontario Institute for Cancer Research; Toronto; On-site; CAD 47,000 - 53,000; Full time

Job summary

The Ontario Institute for Cancer Research (OICR) is hiring a Research Technician I to apply advanced technical knowledge in human genetics, primarily operating the Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) platform. You’ll contribute to the Production Library Preparation and Sequencing Team and support MOHCCN projects.

This temporary, full-time position is based at MaRS Centre in Toronto and requires strong molecular biology skills and team collaboration in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in molecular biology or related specialty or recognized equivalent.
• Experience in a cancer research laboratory or equivalent.
• Hands-on experience in Molecular Biology or related fields (genomics, genetics).
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Perform molecular biology laboratory techniques (PCR, qPCR, DNA fragment analysis) to support genomic research.
• Knowledge and use of quality control methods in a genomics lab.
• General NGS laboratory maintenance tasks as required.
• Documentation and communication of experimental results.
• Following laboratory SOPs and contributing to their upkeep.
• Optimization of protocols and reducing laboratory activities to written SOPs.
• Supporting more senior Genome Research Platform staff as required.
• Evaluating new genomics technologies for future research use.
• Perform high-quality work in an ISO 15189/CLIA-compliant environment.

Skills

Molecular biology

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Communication

Education

Bachelors in molecular biology or related field

Tools

NGS platforms

PCR/qPCR

Job description

About OICR

OICR is Ontario’s cancer research institute. We bring together people from across the province and around the world to improve the lives of everyone affected by cancer. We take on the biggest challenges in cancer research and deliver real-world solutions to find cancer earlier and treat it more effectively. We are committed to helping people living with cancer, as well as future generations, live longer and healthier lives.

Launched in December 2005, OICR is an independent institute funded by the Government of Ontario through theMinistry ofColleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security.

Job Details

Position: Research Technician I

Location: MaRS Centre, Toronto

Department: Genomics

Reports To: Manager, Genomics Production

Hiring Range: $47,470 to $52,773 commensurate with level of experience; total compensation includes a competitive benefits plan, plus a defined benefit pension plan (HOOPP)

Hours: 35 hours/week

Job Type: On-site

Status: Full-time, Temporary (1-year contract)

Position Summary

The Ontario Institute for Cancer Research (OICR) is looking to fill an existing vacancy for a Research Technician I to apply advanced technical knowledge and skills to run the most recent technologies in the field of human genetics, mainly the Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) platform. The Research Technician I will act as a member of the Production Library Preparation and Sequencing Team and will be involved in supporting various projects under the Marathon of Hope Cancer Centres Network (MOHCCN).

This position is temporary, full-time for one-year.

Position Responsibilities

• Performing molecular biology laboratory techniques (PCR, qPCR, DNA fragment analysis) to support genomic research.
• Knowledge and use of quality control methods in a genomics lab.
• General NGS laboratory maintenance tasks as required.
• Documentation and communication of experimental results.
• Following laboratory SOPs and contributing to their upkeep.
• Optimization of protocols and reducing laboratory activities to written SOPs.
• Supporting more senior Genome Research Platform staff as required.
• Evaluating new genomics technologies for use in future research projects if required.
• Performance of high-quality work in an ISO 15189/CLIA-compliant environment.

Position Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in molecular biology or related specialty or recognized equivalent.
• Experience in a cancer research laboratory or equivalent.
• Hands-on experience in Molecular Biology or related fields (genomics, genetics).
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Proven sense of team building.

For more information about OICR, please visit the website at www.oicr.on.ca.

To learn more about working at OICR, visit our career page.

POSTED DATE: August 28, 2026
CLOSING DATE: Until Filled

OICR is committed to fostering a climate of equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility. This commitment is central to, and mutually supportive of, our research excellence mandate. We welcome and respect the diversity of all members of our community and we support an inclusive culture for all. We welcome all applicants, and encourage applications from racialized persons, Indigenous Peoples, women, persons with disabilities, LGBTQ2S persons, and others who may contribute to furthering a diversity of ideas within our community. OICR is committed to fair assessment of a candidate’s abilities, and consideration for diversity of thought, method, and experience. Providing an accessible workplace and recruitment process is important to us, as described in our Accessibility Plan https://oicr.on.ca/accessibility/. Should you require accommodation during any stage in the recruitment process, please complete the form at the bottom of page https://oicr.on.ca/careers/. Information received related to accommodation will be handled confidentially.

OICR hiring managers may use approved Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to assist with an initial screening or assessment of applications, and selection of applicants in accordance with OICR’s privacy policies. Personal information associated with any job application will not be shared with or retained by any third party for the purpose of training an AI model. Hiring managers shall determine which applications proceed through the recruitment process.