The individual will perform biological sample processing, DNA/RNA extraction, and molecular genetics techniques focusing on gene expression in the placenta. Additional duties include maintaining lab inventories, preparing solutions, and managing laboratory waste.
Requirements summary
Minimum requirements include a high school diploma and two years of related experience, though a BSc in Biology or a related discipline is preferred. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in molecular biology techniques and adherence to safety regulations.
high schoolbachelor degreeData EntrySample ProcessingChemical SafetyMolecular GeneticsLaboratory MaintenanceBiohazard SafetyBuffer PreparationDNA ExtractionRNA ExtractionPyrosequencingReal Time PCRPlacental Sampling
Job description
Staff - Non Union Job Category Non Union Technicians and Research Assistants Job Profile Non Union Salaried - Research Assistant /Technician 2 Job Title Research Assistant/Technician 2 Department Robinson Laboratory | Department of Medical Genetics | Faculty of Medicine Compensation Range $4,333.86 - $5,155.61 CAD Monthly Posting End Date June 29, 2026 Note: Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on the Posting End Date.
Job End Date June 30, 2026 At UBC, we believe that attracting and sustaining a diverse workforce is key to the successful pursuit of excellence in research, innovation, and learning for all faculty, staff and students.
Our commitment to employment equity helps achieve inclusion and fairness, brings rich diversity to UBC as a workplace, and creates the necessary conditions for a rewarding career.
Job Summary The individual will join a group with laboratory space within the BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute.
The focus of this lab is on study of gene expression and epigenetic changes in the placenta.
Duties will involve biological (mostly placenta) sample processing, DNA/RNA extraction; Aliquoting subsets of frozen tissue sample, extracting RNA, preparing/sending samples for bioanalysis, maintaining supplies and consumables, cleaning, washing and autoclaving instruments, general cleaning of areas used for the extractions and lab work, organizing storage, preparation of buffers and solutions, help with lab inventories and maintenance and other general lab related duties.
Within a wet-research laboratory.
Interaction with other lab members as well as other research labs within the institute.
There are minor biohazard and chemical hazards to be aware of, which, with appropriate precautions can be minimized.
Individual will have desk space and computer access.
Organizational Status The individual will work under close supervision of a Senior Research Associate.
The individual will report on a regular basis to the senior research associate and results will be reviewed and additional experiments outlined.
The individual may attend weekly lab meetings and present results of work when appropriate.
Work Performed 1) Placental sampling and dissection 2) DNA/RNA extraction from blood and other human tissues 3) Molecular genetics techniques including methylation-based DNA analyses (pyrosequencing) and real time PCR quantitation of gene expression 4) Maintaining solutions (keeping track and maintaining consumables and reagent stocks and lab inventories) and other general lab maintenance.
5) Analysis of results and incorporation into a computer database Appropriate laboratory waste management.
Consequence of Error/Judgement Errors will result in incorrect data and incorrect conclusions possibly causing experiments having to be repeated due to faulty results and costing time and reagents.
Problems will be resolved through discussions with other lab members as well as the supervisors.
Supervision Received After initial training the incumbent is expected to perform experiments with general supervision.
Research associate will review tasks on at least a weekly basis.
Candidate will also routinely discuss work and results with principal investigators at lab meetings and individually on at least a monthly basis.
Supervision Given Individual is expected to train new members to the lab in the analysis techniques used and explain protocols.
Minimum Qualifications
High school graduation, some additional training in a related field and a minimum two years of related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience. - Willingness to respect diverse perspectives, including perspectives in conflict with one’s own - Demonstrates a commitment to enhancing one’s own awareness, knowledge, and skills related to equity, diversity, and inclusion
Preferred Qualifications
BSc in Biology or related discipline with some laboratory experience. B.Sc. in related discipline or relevant experience including knowledge of standard molecular and cell biology techniques. At least one year of relevant laboratory experience. Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively in an interdisciplinary environment. Strong understanding of molecular biological techniques as well as adherence to strict Biological and Chemical safety regulations that guide proper practices and procedures is required. Demonstrated ability to reliably carry out instructions without ongoing directions, ability to work independently, and within a team environment. Previous experience using basic computer programs for data entry e.g. Word, Excel, Access, Powerpoint, etc, downloading and installing software, and data file organization. Accuracy and attention to detail. Knowledge of basic laboratory safety procedures and techniques. The University of British Columbia is a global centre for research and teaching, consistently ranked among the top 20 public universities globally. A large part of what makes us unique is the community of engaged students, faculty, and staff who are collectively committed to shaping a better world. Recognized as a leading employer in British Columbia and Canada, UBC supports inspired students, faculty and staff on their journey of discovery, and challenges them to realize their greatest potential. New ideas, changing infrastructure, innovative technology, and fresh approaches are opening up possibilities for the future of research, teaching, and work. Are you ready to embrace the future together? Equity and diversity are essential to academic excellence. An open and diverse community fosters the inclusion of voices that have been underrepresented or discouraged. We encourage applications from members of groups that have been marginalized on any grounds enumerated under the B.C. Human Rights Code, including sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, racialization, disability, political belief, religion, marital or family status, age, and/or status as a First Nation, Metis, Inuit, and/or Indigenous person. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority. If you have any accommodation or accessibility needs during the job application process, please contact the Centre for Workplace Accessibility at workplace.accessibility@ubc.ca.
