University of British Columbia·Vancouver, British Columbia
The Research Assistant will collect, process, and track patient biospecimens while maintaining accurate clinical data in the biobank management system. They are also responsible for screening patients for enrollment and obtaining informed consent in accordance with ethical guidelines.
Staff - Non Union Job Category Non Union Technicians and Research Assistants Job Profile Non Union Salaried - Research Assistant /Technician 1 Job Title Research Assistant Department Biobank | BC Children's Hospital Research Institute| Faculty of Medicine Compensation Range $4,232.75 - $4,642.27 CAD Monthly Posting End Date August 12, 2026 Note: Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on the Posting End Date.
This position is subject to the satisfactory completion of required background checks Job End Date September 1, 2027 This position is expected to be filled by promotion/reassignment and is included here to inform you of its vacancy at the University.
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.
At BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute, we are committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and equitable environment.
We do not tolerate racism, sexism, misogyny, discrimination, or any form of harassment.
We strongly encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and identities who share our values of equity, integrity, and respect.
Job Summary BC Children's Hospital BioBank (BCCH BioBank, BCCHB) collects patient samples and annotated data from children and women with their consent and securely stores them for future research purposes.
BCCH BioBank requires a Research Assistant for 1 year (with possibility of extension) to provide general assistance in a research setting under the direction of the BCCHB Scientific Director, Dr.
Jonathan Bush, and senior members of the BioBank.
Organizational Status The BCCHB Research Assistant (RA) will work closely with the other BCCHB laboratory technicians. Reports to the BCCHB lab manager and dotted reporting line to BCCHB Scientific Director.
Work Performed Assist in the collection of biospecimens from surgical suites Carries out processing, labelling, and tracking of biospecimens according to BCCHB Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) Enters clinical data and inventory information into the biobank information management system Records and document laboratory processes Check Operation Room (OR) slates daily for eligible patients Screens patients for research enrolment Obtains informed consent from patients and/or family members Assists with quality assessment of biospecimens and derivatives Assists in checking, updating and ordering of laboratory inventory/supplies Assists in retrieving and shipping biospecimens according to SOPs Distributes research surveys to patients and/or family members
Consequence of Error/Judgement The Research Assistant (RA) is responsible for the ethical and transparent engagement of potential participants in accordance with BCCH BioBank policies and procedures.
This role requires sound judgment, professionalism, and strict adherence to ethical guidelines governing patient recruitment and data confidentiality.
Breach of these protocols, including inappropriate disclosure or misuse of patient information, may constitute just cause for termination of employment.
This position plays a critical role in the recruitment and retention of participants for the BCCH BioBank.
Inadequate management of recruitment efforts may lead to participant withdrawal, resulting in loss of biological samples and research data, ultimately jeopardizing the success of the project.
Errors in participant data entry or documentation may compromise data integrity, leading to inaccurate reporting, wasted resources, and increased project costs.
The RA must demonstrate professionalism and discretion when interacting with patients and obtaining informed consent, as they represent the face of the BCCH BioBank.
A lack of transparency or professionalism during these interactions could negatively impact the reputation of both the BioBank and the broader research community at BCCHRI.
Supervision Received The BCCHB Research Assistant will be supervised directly by the BCCHB Lab Manager.
Supervision Given None but may explain work sequences to others.
Bachelor Degree in Health Science or Molecular Biology/Immunology/Cell Biology, Preferences will be given to applicants with research experience. Highly self-motivated with excellent time management skills and detail-oriented Ability to take on assigned responsibilities and meet deadlines. Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing. Ability to effectively use email and internet, MS Excel/Word. Ability to accept responsibility and work effectively independently with minimal supervision. Ability to work in a team environment.
Candidates must have at least a high school diploma and one year of related experience, though a bachelor's degree in a health or biological science is preferred. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively in a team environment are essential.
Market context
In British Columbia, research assistant openings in health and science settings often draw interest from candidates with mixed education and experience backgrounds, so postings can move quickly when the fit is clear. These roles are competitive because employers usually look for strong organization, detail orientation, and teamwork, alongside at least a high school diploma and related experience, with a health or biological science degree preferred. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then tailor your application to highlight research support, recordkeeping, and collaboration experience.