Research Technician II

OICR is Ontario’s cancer research institute. We bring together people from across the province and around the world to improve the lives of everyone affected by cancer. We take on the biggest challenges in cancer research and deliver real-world solutions to find cancer earlier and treat it more effectively. We are committed to helping people living with cancer, as well as future generations, live longer and healthier lives.

Launched in December 2005, OICR is an independent institute funded by the Government of Ontario through the Ministry of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security.

Position:
Research Technician II

Location:

MaRS Centre, Toronto

Department:
Genomics

Reports To:

Manager, Genomics Production

Hiring Range: $56,560 - $63,327 per annum, commensurate with level of experience; total compensation includes a competitive benefits plan, plus a defined benefit pension plan (HOOPP)

Hours:

35 hours/week

Job Type: On-site

Status:
Full-time, Permanent

The Ontario Institute for Cancer Research (OICR) is seeking a Research Technician II to apply advanced technical knowledge and skills to run the most recent technologies in the field of human genetics, with a primary focus on Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) platforms.

The Research Technician II will play a key role in supporting validations, library prep and high-throughput genomic sequencing operations, with a primary focus on the preparation, loading, maintenance, and operation of next-generation sequencing (NGS) instruments. This individual will ensure sequencing platforms run efficiently and reliably, perform routine instrument QC and troubleshooting, and assist in the coordination of sequencing runs for both clinical and research projects.

Working closely with the laboratory team, the technician will contribute to maintaining high-quality standards, optimizing workflows, and supporting the timely delivery of sequencing data.

• Perform automated and manual library construction and subsequent sequencing across various next-generation sequencing platforms.
• Prepare sample pools for sequencing QC and full-depth sequencing using Illumina (MiSeq, Next Seq, Nova Seq X) and Ultima UG100 sequencers.
• Data entry into LIMS.
• Supporting senior staff to monitor and perform QC tasks at various steps in NGS protocols.
• Provide guidance and training support for junior staff.
• Work with the Genomics management team to coordinate and prioritize sample processing and sequencing activities.
• Documentation and communication of experimental results
• Optimization of protocols and writing SOPs.
• Monitor and maintenance of lab equipment according to accreditation guidance
• Assisting QA with Quality Improvement projects.

• Minimum Bachelor’s degree in Molecular Biology or related specialty, or recognized equivalent
• Experience with standard molecular biology laboratory techniques such as:
  • Knowledge and hands-on experience with Next Generation Sequencing library preparation or operation of Next Generation Sequencing instrument (Illumina or others)
  • Experience with other routine molecular techniques, such as nucleic acid quantification and qPCR reaction setup.
• Exposure in an accredited laboratory operation (CAP, ISO
  15189 or CLIA)
• Excellent organizational and time management skills
• Ability to work independently and accurately under deadlines
• Meticulous and detail-oriented
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills in a team environment
• Familiarity with data or statistical analysis

For more information about OICR, please visit the website at

To learn more about working at OICR, visit our career page.

POSTED DATE:
October 9, 2026

CLOSING DATE:
October 15, 2026 at 12:00 p.m.

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