Clinical Genomics Technologist I

IWK Health is a respected academic health sciences centre located in Halifax, Nova Scotia, providing tertiary and primary care for two million children, youth, adults and families each year across the Atlantic region.

We have a team of approximately 4000 employees, physicians, volunteers and learners at sites across Nova Scotia [https://www.novascotia.com/].

People build careers with IWK Health with our focus on training and mentorship opportunities.

We recognize each other’s talent and celebrate our successes.

We collaborate in modern facilities or virtually from home, align our work to our values [https://www.iwk.nshealth.ca/about-us/purpose-and-values], and enjoy access to enhanced benefits [https://www.iwk.nshealth.ca/employment/benefits] and wellness programs.

We are proud to support our patients, families and communities and are grateful for the generous donor support we receive.

Promoting an anti-racist environment, and calling out discrimination as we work and provide care, is important to us.

We are located in Mi’kma’ki, the unceded and ancestral territory of the Mi’kmaq people.

Working in Mi’kma’ki and providing care to those across Atlantic Canada is a shared privilege with the original inhabitants who have lived here for many thousands of years prior to colonization.

There are 13 First Nation communities across Nova Scotia, and more than 50 historic African Nova Scotian communities who also have a long, deep, and complex history dating back over 400 years.

We have the highest percentage of people with disabilities in the country.

Nova Scotia has the highest proportions of transgender and non-binary people than any other province or territory in the country.

We are active in our work to eliminate discrimination, but have more work to do to build that trust, acknowledge our biases and reduce the barriers our diverse communities face.

We want IWK Health to be a safe and supportive space of equity and belonging in the care we provide and the employment we offer.

We welcome all interested persons who self-identify as Indigenous, Black/African Nova Scotians, Persons of Colour, Immigrants/Newcomers, Persons with Disabilities, 2SLGBTQIA+ to apply to support our goal for our workforce to be representative of the patients, families, and communities that we care for at all job levels.

Reporting to the Manager of Clinical Genomics, the Clinical Genomics Technologist I provides lab services for diagnostic purposes to support clinical care as well as academic and research needs. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

Perform molecular genetic testing procedures, including nucleic acid extractions, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based assays in accordance with established protocols,

Conduct genomic analyses such as sequencing, multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA), Chromosomal Microarray, and next-generation sequencing (NGS); reviews and documents results as required.

Prepare cytogenetic specimens, including specimen receipt, tissue culture, harvesting, and slide preparation, following standard operating procedures.

Perform cytogenetic analyses, including karyotyping and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), ensuring accuracy and adherence to quality standards using ISCN nomenclature and specialized computer imaging platforms

Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory instruments and equipment; performs routine maintenance and calibration as required.

Applies critical thinking and problem-solving skills to support day-to-day laboratory operations and resolve technical issues within scope of practice.

Perform and document quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) activities in compliance with IWK Health policies, accreditation standards, and regulatory requirements.

Adhere to laboratory safety practices, infection prevention and control standards, and organizational policies.

Participate in continuing education and competency assessment to maintain current knowledge and skills.

Your qualifications

Currently enrolled in, or graduate of, a recognized Clinical Genetics Technology program required.

Experience in Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) and/or Microarray techniques preferred.

Certified or eligible for certification with the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS) required.

Licensed or eligible for licensure with the Nova Scotia College of Medical Laboratory Technology (NSCMLT) required.

Demonstrates excellent verbal and written communication skills

Demonstrates effective problem solving, organizational, time management and prioritization skills.

Ability to work effectively and efficiently in a collaborative team environment

Candidates must demonstrate an ongoing commitment to technical expertise and professional development.