Note: Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on the Posting End Date.
Job End Date
May 31, 2027
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 Research Assistant will support the daily biobanking of fluid biospecimens for research biobanks and clinical trails within the Molecular Phenotyping Core (MPCL) located at the Centre for Heart Lung Innovation (HLI) and St. Paul’s Hospital. Responsibilities include the processing, storage and tracking of specimens in accordance with established protocols and quality standards.
The individual will interact daily with staff and trainees from numerous research programs within the HLI as well as the external research community, to provide a supportive and collaborative research environment. The role requires providing reliable and timely support while ensuring accurate documentation and adherence to quality standards. Exceptional organizational skill, meticulous attention to detail and the ability to efficiently prioritize and multitask in a fast-paced environment are essential for success in this role.
In addition, the successful candidate will perform routine DNA/RNA isolation as needed. The individual will also assist with other laboratory services when required. This may include reagent preparation, equipment maintenance and quality control procedures for an Advia hematology analyzer, Luminex 200, Gallios flow cytometer and microplate reader.
Organizational Status
Reports directly to the MPCL manager. Works closely with technicians, trainees and clinical research coordinators in a team oriented, collaborative environment.
Work Performed
Perform routine separation of blood samples into their derivatives such as serum, plasma and cellular fractions for aliquoting, electronic cataloging and long-term storage.
Maintain precise and up to date laboratory records.
Generate and print standardized barcode labels for aliquot tubes.
Receive, scan and store frozen biospecimens in accordance with strict temperature control procedures.
Assist with preparation of frozen biospecimen shipments.
Identify and report procedural deviations to the immediate supervisor.
Assists the MPCL manager with biobanking activities, scheduling & inventory restocking.
Track billable time and keep user records up to date.
Assist with routine equipment maintenance and calibration.
Perform routine DNA/RNA isolation from blood and tissues specimens.
Maintain chemical inventory and chemical waste disposal records.
Consequence of Error/Judgement
Errors will impact negatively on individual projects and research groups as well as the HLI as a whole. Errors could seriously jeopardize the reputation of the MPCL and the HLI, thus potentially affecting future funding and ongoing support.
Supervision Received
Works under general supervision in carrying out established duties and responsibilities. Receives instruction during orientation and on subsequent new assignments or changes in procedures.
Supervision Given
May distribute work assignments to employees at lower classification levels and initiate new employees into routines, procedures and operation of equipment.
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
Undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline or graduation from a technical college or institute.
Experienced with biobanking workflows, sample tracking and data documentation.
Experience working with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in a quality driven environment aligned with best practices.
Demonstrated strong teamwork skills and the ability to take initiative and work independently with minimal supervision.
Skilled at quickly switching between high-focus tasks to complete multiple tasks of different nature throughout the day.
Ability to adapt to a changing environment and handle multiple priorities.
Ability to work effectively under pressure to prioritize workload and meet deadlines.
Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.