Laboratory Technician

Do you want to work for a world-renowned research institute that pushes the boundaries of biomedical science and health research? Right here in Montreal! At the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre (RI-MUHC), you can be part of an organization focused on scientific discovery and innovation in patient-centered medicine. Join us today and make a difference!

The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre (RI-MUHC) is a world-renowned biomedical and hospital research centre. Located in Montreal, Quebec, the Institute is the research arm of the McGill University Health Centre (MUHC) affiliated with the Faculty of Medicine at McGill University. The RI-MUHC is supported in part by the Fonds de recherche du Québec - Santé (FRQS).

Department / Research Program:

Dr. Carl Boodman’s research program at the RI-MUHC focuses on Bartonella quintana and other neglected infections affecting underserved populations. The program integrates molecular diagnostics, serology, louse-based surveillance, and genomics to improve diagnosis and understand transmission. Current projects include the development and validation of diagnostic assays and testing of human and louse specimens, in collaboration with shelters, community organizations, and clinical, laboratory, and public health partners across Canada and internationally.

The Laboratory Technician will join Dr. Carl Boodman’s research program at the RI-MUHC, focused on Bartonella quintana and other neglected infections (Bartonella North). The incumbent will support the development, validation, and application of diagnostic assays for

B. quintana. Key activities will include DNA extraction, PCR/qPCR, immunofluorescence assays (IFA), processing of human and louse specimens, and assay optimization. The incumbent will also contribute to quality control, laboratory organization, data management, and documentation, while collaborating with research and laboratory partners.

• Participates in laboratory research projects involving Bartonella quintana and other neglected infections,
• Processes human, louse, and other research specimens and performs DNA extraction using established laboratory protocols,
• Performs molecular diagnostic techniques, including conventional PCR and real-time PCR (qPCR), and contributes to optimization and troubleshooting of assays,
• Performs serological testing, including immunofluorescence assays (IFA),
• Participates in the development, validation, and quality control of molecular and serological assays,
• Prepares reagents, controls, specimens, and laboratory materials and operates relevant laboratory equipment,
• Records, analyzes, and organizes experimental results and maintains accurate laboratory records, protocols, and research databases,
• Supports specimen inventory, storage, tracking, and laboratory organization,
• Maintains equipment and ensures a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment in accordance with institutional procedures,
• Collaborates with research team members and laboratory partners and contributes to the implementation of new methods and protocols,
• Performs other related duties as required by the Principal Investigator.

• Performs laboratory procedures accurately and reproducibly, with appropriate quality control and documentation.
• Contributes effectively to the validation, optimization, and troubleshooting of molecular and serological assays.
• Demonstrates strong attention to detail, organization, and ability to identify and resolve technical problems.

Website of the organization

Education / Experience

Education:

Bachelor's Degree

Field of Study: medical laboratory science, microbiology, molecular biology, biochemistry, biomedical sciences, or a related field.

Other education considered an asset for this position:
Graduate-level training (MSc or equivalent) in microbiology, molecular biology, immunology, biomedical sciences, or a related field, additional training in molecular diagnostics, serology, or laboratory assay development and validation.

Work Experience:

Previous laboratory experience in molecular biology, microbiology, immunology, or a related field. Experience with PCR/qPCR and DNA extraction is required, experience with serological techniques, particularly immunofluorescence assays (IFA), is an asset.

• Knowledge of French is required.
• An intermediate knowledge of oral and written English is required, as the position…