Teaching Lab Technician

SFU group; Burnaby; Hybrid; CAD 52,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid-work program

CUPE Local 3338 employment

Job summary

Simon Fraser University in Burnaby is seeking a Laboratory Technician in Biological Sciences to support undergraduate and graduate labs, focusing on molecular biology, biochemistry, microbiology and genetics techniques.

You will prepare materials, assist faculty and students, perform DNA extractions, manage cultures, train staff, comply with WHMIS and safety protocols, and help maintain equipment.

Qualifications

• Undergraduate degree in Biological Sciences or Molecular Biology with courses in molecular biology, microbiology, and chemistry.
• Minimum 4 years of experience; equivalent combination acceptable.
• Strong knowledge of DNA/RNA extractions and gene cloning concepts.
• Familiarity with WHMIS and safety protocols in a scientific lab.
• Ability to train TAs and students in lab procedures and safety.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical support for undergraduate and graduate biology labs, including complex molecular biology protocols.
• Prepare, set up, and maintain specimens, materials, and lab equipment for experiments.
• Monitor lab activities and assist faculty, TAs, and students with procedures and safety.
• Produce and analyze DNA samples and assist with bacterial, yeast, and fungal cultures.
• Train staff and students in proper operation of lab equipment and techniques.

Skills

DNA extraction

PCR

Gel documentation

WHMIS & lab safety

Aseptic techniques

Instrument troubleshooting

Training staff & students

Independent and teamwork

Education

Undergraduate degree in Biological Sciences or Molecular Biology

Tools

Gel documentation systems

Centrifuges

UV/Vis spectrophotometers

Autoclaves

Freeze dryer

Job description

Who We Are

Simon Fraser University is a leading research university, advancing an inclusive and sustainable future. Our purpose – the essence of SFU – is to create and connect knowledge, learning and community for deeper understanding and meaningful impact. We are committed to fostering excellence, innovation, belonging and community in all that we do.

The Department of Biological Sciences has the goals:

• To graduate bachelors-level students who have a broad understanding of contemporary biology and its significance to society, an in-depth comprehension of selected subjects, and well developed analytical and communication skills.
• To graduate masters and doctoral students who meet the highest international standards, who are expert in specialized areas of the biological sciences, can conduct definitive scientific investigations, are skillful communicators, and who have a highly developed sense of scientific and social responsibility.
• To serve the University and the wider national and international communities by providing ideas, interpretations, and advice.

About the Role

Provides technical support for a variety of undergraduate and senior level graduate laboratory courses in Biological Sciences, particularly those involving lab-based experimental protocols and instrumentation using sophisticated molecular biology, biochemistry, microbiology, and genetics techniques/procedures. Prepares, sets up, and maintains specimens, materials, and laboratory equipment and supplies for student experiments and demonstrations. Monitors lab activities and assists faculty, TAs, and students with experimental procedures, equipment operation, related safety protocols, and the preparation and handling of specimens and materials by demonstrating techniques/procedures and providing written and verbal instructions on lab set-up and experimental protocols. Produces, manipulates, and analyzes DNA samples using established molecular biological procedures (i.e., general DNA cloning, DNA and RNA extractions). Assists faculty and lab instructors with the establishment, identification, production, and maintenance of pure cultures (i.e., algae, fungi, bacteria), including isolation from natural sources using standard prokaryotic/eukaryotic aseptic techniques and associated genetic procedures.

Full Job Description

Qualifications

Undergraduate degree in Biological Sciences or Molecular Biology and a variety of laboratory courses with a concentration in molecular biology, microbiology, and chemistry. 4 years of experience. An equivalent combination of formal education, certificate/program of study and experience is acceptable.

• Excellent knowledge of molecular biology techniques and theory (i.e., DNA and RNA extractions, plasmid preps, restriction enzyme digests, gene cloning, polymerase chain reactions, transformations, southern transfers, preparation of competent cells, making agarose/polyacrylamide gels, etc.).
• Good knowledge of microbiological techniques (i.e., growing/storing bacterial, yeast and fungal cultures, replica plating, gram stains) and related biochemical and genetic procedures.
• Good knowledge of specimen preparation and maintenance techniques.
• Excellent knowledge of Workplace Hazardous Material Information System (WHMIS) policies and general science laboratory safety procedures (i.e., chemical safety, biosafety).
• Good analytical reasoning and problem solving skills.
• Good interpersonal and communication (oral and written) skills.
• Ability to operate and maintain/troubleshoot experimental laboratory equipment (i.e., gel documentation systems, micro and high speed centrifuges, computer-driven UV/Vis and nano spectrophotometers, autoclaves, freeze dryers, etc.).
• Ability to train staff (TAs, instructors) and students in the proper operation of experimental lab equipment (i.e., gel documentation system, UV/Vis scanning spectrophotometers, microtitre plate reader, etc.); related safety procedures; and sophisticated molecular biology techniques/procedures (i.e., general DNA cloning procedures, plasmid preps, restriction enzyme digests, gene cloning, etc.).
• Ability to research information and test/analyze/evaluate experimental procedures and materials (i.e., bacteria, DNA, RNA, enzymes, antibiotics).
• Ability to perform arithmetic calculations and algebraic procedures in practical applications with a high degree of accuracy.
• Ability to use email and internet applications (i.e., SFU Connect, Internet Explorer, Safari, FireFox).
• Ability to use word processing, spreadsheet, and database applications (i.e., Word, Excel, Filemaker Pro) at a basic level.
• Ability to order primers and arrange for genetic sequencing using online portals.
• Ability to complete and maintain WHMIS and government/SFU biohazard safety certification.
• Ability to exercise mature judgment and initiative; prioritize daily tasks; and meet deadlines.
• Ability to work both independently and as a member of a team.
• Ability to maintain WorkSafeBC Occupational First Aid Level 1 and WHMIS certification.
• Ability to lift, move, and carry equipment and materials up to 25 kg.
• Ability to work at heights of up to 12 feet.
• Ability to work flexible hours as required.

What We Offer

At SFU, our goal is to ensure our people are valued and supported by promoting a healthy work-life balance, professional growth and development, as well as a safe and respectful workplace. We offer temporary employees who belong in the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE Local 3338):

• An additional 14% pay in lieu of benefits
• After 4 consecutive months in the position, pay in lieu of benefits is increased to 20%
• Hybrid-work program for eligible positions

Additional Information

The assignment end date is December 24, 2026.

An Internal Candidate has been identified.

SFU is an equity employer and strongly encourages applications from all qualified individuals including women, Indigenous Peoples, visible minorities, people of all sexual orientations and gender identities, persons with disabilities, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of the university.

We are committed to facilitating accessibility within our application and interview processes. If you require any assistance or accommodations, please contact [e-mail].