Research Technician

Research Technician

Location:

PHO Corporate Office & Toronto Laboratory, 661 University Avenue, Toronto, ON
Department:
Laboratory Science
This posting is to fill a current vacancy.
Key Responsibilties   Performs highly specialized and complex laboratory testing to respond to potential public health threats from emerging pathogens, protect public health and safety, and to support disease diagnosis, prevention and treatment and other organism of public health importance.
Performs tests and provides input to principal investigators on highly specialized and complex laboratory testing and equipment.
Under the direction of a principal investigator (e.g. molecular specialist) recommends changes to formalized procedures and new protocols for diagnostic laboratory testing of emerging pathogens.
Assesses proposed laboratory procedures and reports on findings to a PI for consideration in the improvement of laboratory practices and protocols.
Under the direction of a principal investigator participates in research and development as part of the process in establishing new protocols where none exists.
Assesses proposed and existing laboratory procedures and reports on findings to a molecular specialist for further action.
Prepares SOPs for research and drafts SOPs for methods being adapted in the clinical laboratory.
Conducts, under direction, research projects pertaining to the establishment and implementation of new protocols and procedures, sophisticated analyses and methods evaluations for the improvement of laboratory procedures, protocols and surveillance.
Provides technical support to medical laboratory technologists in performing new procedures that apply to new techniques and protocols which supports the implementation of more effective techniques and new test technology.
Under direction conducts collaborative research projects which may involve provincial/national/ international organizations and universities, to evaluate and establish improved methodologies to enhance PHL testing service.
Provides technical support on projects for medical laboratory technologists and laboratory assistants in the diagnostic laboratory, sharing their knowledge and expertise of new methodologies and practices.
Maintains quality control for own research projects.
Maintains the efficient operation of their assigned research laboratory area including maintenance of equipment and ordering of supplies.
Perform evaluations and validation studies of assays and assist with the implementation of new tests or methods in the laboratory in consultation with the PI.
Performs other related duties as assigned.
Knowledge and Skills   Knowledge of current complex testing theory and its application to the field of public health to perform tests and provide input to principal investigators on highly specialized and complex laboratory testing.
Knowledge of complex testing methods in order to participate in research experiments and projects, to conduct complex molecular-based research and to make definitive decisions regarding results.
Knowledge of PHL policies and procedures related to the provision of diagnostic clinical laboratory services to conduct complex testing and research tests and to make recommendations for changes to laboratory guidelines and procedures.
Knowledge of Laboratory Information Systems or other database programs to facilitate data collection and analysis.
Knowledge of Health and Safety legislation, protocols, practices and standards to safely conduct laboratory testing.
Computer skills in such programs as Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc).
Bioinformatics skills are an asset.

Education and Experience   Bachelor’s Degree from a university of recognized standing and experience in microbiology with…