Description
The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology in the Cumming School of Medicine invites applications for a Research Technician. This Full-time Fixed Term position is for approximately 12 months (based on length of grant funding), with the possibility of extension.
Reporting to the Principal Investigator.
The Research Technician will be responsible for establishing and conducting genome editing experiments on cancer cells, primary T cells and human hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs). These experiments include on-target analysis through Sanger and next-generation sequencing and off-target analysis through CHANGE-seq, UNCOVER-seq, and GUIDE-seq. The technician will also participate in in vivo studies, which include the engraftment of human HSPCs in mouse models and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell studies.
Summary of Key Responsibilities (job functions include but are not limited to):
- Developing and implementing research activities in consultation with the principal investigator
- Conduct and analyze genome editing experiments in a variety of mammalian cells, including primary immune cells and HSPCs, and in vivo studies for developing cellular therapies
- Improve protocols and optimize techniques related to the project
- Conduct on and off-target analysis in consultation with the PI
- Analyze sequencing results from on- and off-target editing
- Design and construct plasmids, custom gRNAs and libraries for the lab's research projects, and prepare genomic samples for sequencing
- Work collaboratively with other members of the lab and provide technical support
- Maintain detailed and accurate laboratory notebooks, experimental records and data documentation in accordance to research standards
- Participate in regular laboratory meetings, and contribute to research planning discussions
- Assist with laboratory operations and administrative functions to ensure efficient daily workflow
- Submit samples for external analysis and coordinate with core facilities and collaborators as required
Qualifications / Requirements:
- A Bachelor's degree in biological science, molecular biology or biochemistry is required
- A Master of Science degree, in a related field, is an asset
- Experience in cell culture, electroporation, genomic DNA extraction, flow cytometry is an asset
- Experience with basic molecular techniques such as cloning, PCR, Gibson cloning, and sequencing analysis is required
- 3+ years of research experience in a molecular biology lab, preferable with genome editing tools, is an asset
- Advanced skills in Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel) and image quantitation software
- Self-starter, strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate records of experiments
- Experience or willingness to work with laboratory animals
- Ability to follow standard operating procedures and maintain compliance with institutional research guidelines
Application Deadline: June 20, 2025
We would like to thank all applicants in advance for submitting their resumes. Please note, only those candidates chosen to continue on through the selection process will be contacted.
This position is part of the AUPE bargaining unit, and falls under the Technical Job Family, Phase 1.
For a listing of all management and staff opportunities at the University of Calgary, view our Management and Staff Careers website.
About the University of Calgary
UCalgary is Canada's entrepreneurial university, located in Canada's most enterprising city. It is a top research university and one of the highest-ranked universities of its age. Founded in 1966, its 36,000 students experience an innovative learning environment, made rich by research, hands-on experiences and entrepreneurial thinking. It is Canada's leader in the creation of start-ups. Start something today at the University of Calgary. For more information, visit ucalgary.ca.
The University of Calgary has launched an institution-wide Indigenous Strategy committing to creating a rich, vibrant, and culturally competent campus that welcomes and supports Indigenous Peoples, encourages Indigenous community partnerships, is inclusive of Indigenous perspectives in all that we do.
As an equitable and inclusive employer, the University of Calgary recognizes that a diverse staff/faculty benefits and enriches the work, learning and research experiences of the entire campus and greater community. We are committed to removing barriers that have been historically encountered by some people in our society. We strive to recruit individuals who will further enhance our diversity and will support their academic and professional success while they are here. In particular, we encourage members of the designated groups (women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, members of visible/racialized minorities, and diverse sexual orientation and gender identities) to apply. To ensure a fair and equitable assessment, we offer accommodation at any stage during the recruitment process to applicants with disabilities. Questions regarding [diversity] EDI at UCalgary can be sent to the Office of Institutional Commitments (equity@ucalgary.ca) and requests for accommodations can be sent to Human Resources (hrhire@ucalgary.ca).
Do you have most but not all the qualifications? Research show that women, racialized and visible minorities, and persons with disabilities are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At UCalgary we are committed to achieving equitable, diverse, inclusive and accessible employment practices and workplaces and encourage you to apply if you believe you are right for this role.
We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, however preference will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada.
