Research Associate - Library Tech D

Canada’s Michael Smith Genome Sciences Centre (GSC)

Today’s Research. Tomorrow’s Medicine.

The GSC is a department of the BC Cancer Research Institute and a high-throughput genome sequencing facility. We are leaders in genomics, proteomics and bioinformatics in pursuit of novel treatment strategies for cancers and other diseases.

Among the world’s first genome centres to be established within a cancer clinic, for more than two decades our scientists and innovators have been designing and deploying cutting-edge technologies to benefit health and advance clinical research.

Among the GSC’s most significant accomplishments are the first publication to demonstrate the use of whole-genome sequencing to inform cancer treatment planning, the first published sequence of the SARS coronavirus genome and major contributions to the first physical map of the human genome as part of the Human Genome Project.

By joining the GSC you will become part of an exceptional and diverse team of scientists, clinicians, experts and professionals operating at the leading edge of clinical research. We look for people who share our core values—science, timeliness, respect—to join us on our mission to use genome science for the betterment of health and society.

Job Reference No. RA_R00006_Library Tech D_2023_08_24

The Research Associate will work within the Technology Development Group (Molecular Biology) under the direction of the Group Leader. Responsibilities include the evaluation of leading technologies that emerge in the marketplace, and the development of novel genomic technologies, such as those that support large-scale provincial and national projects, including BC Cancer’s Personalized OncoGenomics program, and the TFRI-led Marathon of Hope Cancer Centres Network—a major federal initiative co-developed with GSC involvement to accelerate the adoption of cancer precision medicine in Canada, as well as CGEn Technology Development. Tasks include assistance in testing, devising, developing and implementing omic technologies in the laboratory, as well as analyzing, proposing and presenting innovative workflows to increase the efficiency of genomics activities.

• Test and/or develop novel and efficient methods to enable the scale and throughput the GSC requires to operate at the leading edge of its fields.
• Perform pilot or “custom” experiments, which may require e.g. following protocols published in the literature, or modifying an existing production protocol to meet specific project needs.
• Provide support to production groups, such as drafting Standard Operating Procedures, training production staff, and troubleshooting exercises.
• Summarize and analyze data and results, and formally present findings in meetings and discussions, including at local, national and international meetings. Interact closely and in support of group leaders and their teams to address priorities and project timelines
• Co-author scientific manuscripts related to research and technology findings.
• Co-develop research grant applications.
• Contribute to quarterly and annual reports for research projects.
• Perform other related duties as required.

Education and Experience:

• PhD in a life sciences-related discipline, or MSc with 3 years demonstrated experience in genomics, or molecular biology. Knowledge or experience in e.g. high-throughput, large-scale DNA sequencing and genomic library production would be a plus.

Skills and Abilities:

• Molecular Biology.
• Knowledge and experience in laboratory automation.
• Knowledge of science and technologies pertaining to cancer genomics.
• Knowledge and experience in operating a laboratory information management system (LIMS) is advantageous.
• Experience with formal quality assurance systems is advantageous.
• Experience with high-throughput sequencing is desirable.

Experience in a supervisory role is an asset.

Please submit a detailed cover letter and resume to bcgscjobs@bcgsc.ca, using Job Reference No:RA_R00006_Library Tech D_2023_08_24in the subject line of your email.

While we value and review all applications, please note that due to the volume of submissions only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. This posting will remain online until the position is filled.

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority.

Important!

As per the current Public Health Order, full vaccination against COVID-19 is a condition of employment with PHSA as of October 26, 2021.

Please note all jobs at the GSC are based in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Flexible work options may be available for this position upon request and is subject to change in accordance with GSC’s operational needs and PHSA’s Flexible Work Options Policy.

We believe that equity, diversity and inclusivity are essential for the advancement of human knowledge and science.

We welcome all applicants and provide all employees with equal opportunity for advancement, regardless of race, colour, ancestry, place of origin, political belief, religion, marital status, family status, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, conviction of a criminal or summary conviction offence unrelated to their employment.