Research Assistant/Tech 4 - Single Cell Genomics / Molecular Biologist

Staff - Non Union

Job Category
Non Union Technicians and Research Assistants

Job Profile
Non Union Salaried - Research Assistant /Technician 4

Job Title
Research Assistant/Tech 4 - Single Cell Genomics / Molecular Biologist

Department
Aparicio Laboratory | Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine | Faculty of Medicine

Compensation Range
$5,068.91 - $5,946.08 CAD Monthly

Posting End Date
March 11, 2024

Note: Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on the day prior to the Posting End Date above.

Job End Date

Mar 25, 2025

This position is located within a health-care facility. Therefore, this positions requires successful verification of full vaccination against Covid-19 provided prior to the start date, as required by the provincial health mandate.

The anticipated start date for this position is March 25 , 2024. The term is for one year with the possibility of extension.

In your application please include (1) a cover letter, and (2) a CV or resume.

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 Aparicio lab is developing new single-cell genome and transcriptome methods for tracking clonal trajectories at the single-cell level in patient tissues and to gain a better understanding of the tumour microenvironment. Our researchers use the latest single-cell genomics technologies to rapidly identify genes that are involved in the development of cancer. This position will be working on the Single-Cell Genomics Platform on research projects currently ongoing in the lab. The successful candidate will be providing technical guidance, expertise, technology development and support to both internal/external researchers using the single-cell genomics platform; located at 2 separate research facilities in Vancouver, B.C.

We are seeking a highly motivated and highly skilled individual with expertise or experience in single-cell genomics, liquid handling robotics, and/or next-generation sequencing with a strong background in molecular biology. The successful applicant will work full-time under the direction and supervision of Dr. Samuel Aparicio, Principal Investigator, and his designate. Individuals with experience using liquid handling robotics and Next-Generations Sequencing techniques are considered an asset. Experience with bioinformatics approaches to biological data and familiarity with the handling of genomics and next-generation sequencing data will be an advantage. This position will provide the candidate with a high level of exposure to single-cell genomics and translational research, as well as, providing opportunities to work collaboratively with industry partners and other researchers globally; the position start date is flexible.

Organizational Status
Aparicio Lab is located in the Department of Molecular Oncology at BC Cancer Research Institute in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. The candidate will report directly to Dr. Samuel Aparicio, or Laboratory Research and Operations Manager, in addition, the applicant may assist in overseeing the technical work of students and trainees.
Work Performed

• Plans and performs experiments utilizing established complex procedures and/or techniques for investigating single-cell genomics, involving the use of liquid handling robotics and 10x genomics platforms.
• Collaborates with PI and team members to support the development project pipelines, and technical experiments.   
• Visualize and analyze cells using microscopy and flow cytometry.
• Generation, preparation and submission of next-generation sequencing libraries.
• Using a LIMS system to track and record sample data
• Provide technical expertise and support in molecular biology, protein biochemistry, tissue culture and virology
• Develop and implement standard operating protocols (SOPs).
• Maintains laboratory records and experimental data.
• Assist in general lab maintenance such as reagent preparation, receiving and inventory of lab supplies.
• Conducts complex data analysis and interpretation of data resulting from high throughput experiments.
• Presents data at scientific meetings, writes reports and contributes to writing ethics and grant applications.
• Carries out any other related duties as assigned or required in keeping with the qualifications and requirements of this technician level.

Consequence of Error/Judgement
The work is complex and requires a high level of training, tasks are assigned and the incumbent exercises a considerable amount of responsibility, initiative and judgment in determining their work schedule to achieve those tasks. Errors may result in the permanent loss of irreplaceable tissue samples, loss of thousands of dollars of material and/or damage to equipment.  Incorrect decisions or actions may damage the reputation of the laboratory, lead to a loss of credibility in this field, and be financially costly. Noncompliance with biosafety and chemical safety regulations may also result in the closure of the facility or loss of grant funding.
Supervision Received
The successful applicant will work under minimum supervision. From time to time, Principal Investigator or Laboratory Research and Operations Manager may provide specific instructions on unusual problems or new project outlines. This position will report to the Principal Investigator or Laboratory Research and Operations Manager.   
Supervision Given
Depending on experience and expertise, the successful applicant may be required to assist in the training and supervision of graduate students/trainees, junior staff, or external collaborators; including providing instruction on the use of lab equipment and procedures, and will help troubleshoot experiments in their area of expertise.
Minimum Qualifications
Completion of a university degree in a relevant discipline or technical program and a minimum four years of related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Some positions may require a graduate degree.
- 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

• An MSc in Biological Sciences (Molecular Biology or other relevant fields) with work experience in single-cell genomics biology, next-generation sequencing or molecular biology, preferred
• Working knowledge and understanding of molecular biology and biochemistry techniques such as next-generation sequencing, PCR, DNA/RNA purification and molecular cloning techniques are essential; prior working experience in next-generation sequencing and library construction is considered a great asset.
• Experience with cell culture and aseptic technique.
• Working hands-on experience in tissue handling and tissue dissociation methods would be an asset.
• Ability to perform and troubleshoot a wide variety of molecular and cellular biology techniques including the following: RNA / DNA isolation, quantitative PCR, transfection, flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, ELISA, protein isolation, and western blotting.
• Preference will be given to applicants with liquid handling robotics, single-cell genomics, next-generation sequencing, and 10x Genomics experience.
• Experience in immunocytochemistry and basic data analysis in R or similar statistics package would be an asset.
• Demonstrated understanding of experimental design and assay optimization.
• Strong interpersonal skills, communication skills (orally and written) and the ability to interact positively and productively with other team members are essential.
• Excellent documentation and organizational skills.
• Able to multi-task, prioritize and handle multi-project assignments concurrently.
• The successful candidate must be well-organized, conscientious, understand the importance of detail, and be able to multi-task and prioritize duties effectively.