Technical Assistant, Research

University Health Network; Toronto; On-site; CAD 44,066 - 55,093; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive offer packages

Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan (HOOPP)

Flexible work environment

Corporate discounts

On-site gyms

Job summary

University Health Network is seeking a Research Technical Assistant for the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre in Toronto. This permanent full-time role involves performing biorepository tasks such as specimen processing, data entry, and laboratory procedures. The ideal candidate will have a minimum of a Community College or Bachelor’s degree in Biology, at least three months of relevant research experience, and strong attention to detail. Additional perks include competitive offer packages and opportunities for professional development.

Qualifications

• At least three months of related research experience.
• Experience with DNA/RNA extraction, cell separation and culture is an asset.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are required.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine biorepository operations including sample pickup and processing.
• Enter and maintain accurate specimen data in the biospecimen management system.
• Manage storage and distribution of biological samples to collaborators.

Skills

Attention to detail

Analytical skills

Teamwork

Computer skills (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)

Education

Community College or Bachelor’s degree in Biology or Biological Sciences

Job description

Company Description

UHN is Canada’s #1 hospital and the world’s #1 publicly funded hospital. With 10 sites and more than 44,000 TeamUHN members, UHN consists of Toronto General Hospital, Toronto Western Hospital, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, The Michener Institute of Education and West Park Healthcare Centre. As Canada's top research hospital, the scope of biomedical research and complexity of cases at UHN have made it a national and international source for discovery, education and patient care. UHN has the largest hospital‑based research program in Canada, with major research in neurosciences, cardiology, transplantation, oncology, surgical innovation, infectious diseases, genomic medicine and rehabilitation medicine. UHN is a research hospital affiliated with the University of Toronto.

Job Description

Union: Non-Union

Number of Vacancies: 2

New or Replacement Position: Replacement

Site: Princess Margaret Cancer Centre

Department: Research

Reports to: Staff Scientist

Salary Range: $44,066 - $55,093 Per Year

Hours: Hours Per Week

Shifts: Day Shifts

Status: Permanent Full-time

Closing Date: May 27, 2026

Position Summary: We are looking for a Research Technical Assistant to perform routine biorepository tasks at the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre. These tasks include sample pickup/receipt, processing of biological specimens following standard operational procedures, data entry into the biospecimen information management system, storage (cryopreservation), retrieval and distribution of biological specimens to research collaborators, cell culture procedures, maintenance of laboratory supplies and equipment and quality control. Additional duties may be required as needed. The candidate will support multiple projects, work with other members of the lab, and report to the program head. The work has particular physical requirements which includes walking, manual dexterity, sitting for periods of time, and placing and removing samples from cryotanks. The latter requires moderate upper body strength.

Duties

• Perform routine biorepository operations, including sample pickup, receipt, processing, and cryopreservation of biological specimens in accordance with standard operating procedures
• Enter and maintain accurate specimen data in the biospecimen information management system, ensuring data integrity and traceability
• Manage the storage, retrieval, and distribution of biological samples to internal and external research collaborators while maintaining proper documentation
• Conduct basic laboratory procedures, including cell culture and sample preparation, following established protocols
• Maintain laboratory inventory, supplies, and equipment, ensuring readiness for daily operations and compliance with safety standards
• Participate in quality control activities to ensure biospecimen integrity and adherence to institutional and regulatory requirements

Qualifications

• At minimum Community College or Bachelor’s degree in Biology or Biological Sciences, or Health-related Sciences.
• At least three months of related research experience.
• Attention to detail and maintaining accuracy of information.
• Experience with DNA/RNA extraction, cell separation and culture is an asset.
• The candidate should be self‑motivated and demonstrates strong interest in continuous technical, personal, and professional development.
• Strong analytical skills, excellent judgment, and ability to work independently with guidance are essential; must be able to work as part of a team.
• Computer skills: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are required.

Additional Information

Why join UHN?

• Competitive offer packages
• Government organization and a member of the Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan (HOOPP)
• Close access to Transit and UHN shuttle service
• A flexible work environment
• Opportunities for development and promotions within a large organization
• Additional perks (multiple corporate discounts including: travel, restaurants, parking, phone plans, auto insurance discounts, on-site gyms, etc.)

Current UHN employees must have successfully completed their probationary period, have a good employee record along with satisfactory attendance in accordance with UHN's attendance management program, to be eligible for consideration.

UHN is an equal opportunity employer committed to an inclusive recruitment process and workplace. Requests for accommodation can be made at any stage of the recruitment process. Applicants need to make their requirements known.