Research Technician

Position Summary

The Department of Urology is seeking a motivated, detail-oriented, and organized research technician to support projects investigating the molecular pathobiology of renal cancer.

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; and access to recreation and cultural activities.

• Clone DNA constructs for mutagenesis, CRISPR KI/KO, and protein expression.
• Perform tissue culture.
• Conduct PCR, qPCR, western blot, and other molecular assays.
• Execute high-throughput assays for cytotoxicity, redox assessment, and related analyses.
• Learn and adopt new laboratory techniques as guided by the PI’s research priorities.
• Conduct research experiments following detailed protocols.
• Maintain detailed and organized research data in laboratory notebooks and shared folders, write summary reports, and report findings to the investigator.
• Formally present experimental data to the PI periodically.
• Assist in training students working in the laboratory.
• Organize supplies, materials, and equipment; set up equipment and materials for laboratory experiments.
• Follow established procedures to prepare solutions and reagents; perform literature research to find appropriate procedures as required.
• Perform clerical tasks such as labeling and inventory management.
• Clean glassware and other laboratory equipment.
• Make minor repairs and arrange for major repairs of laboratory equipment such as microtomes, microscopes, centrifuges, analytical balances, Magpix multiplex immunoassay instruments, Direct Detect protein quantification instruments, sonicators, and mouse behavior apparatuses.

• Good experience in tissue culture including cell counting, cell seeding, and drug treatment in multiplex plates.
• Experience in cloning, mutagenesis, and the use of cloning software such as Snap Gene.
• Experience with DNA/RNA isolation, qPCR, and western blot.
• Proficiency with statistical software such as Graph Pad Prism.
• Excellent record keeping and data management skills.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Time‑management skills: ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously, meeting project deadlines.
• Communication skills: ability to effectively communicate with collaborators and other team members, and present results at lab meetings and conferences.
• Adaptability: ability to work independently or as part of a team and handle unexpected challenges during experiments.
• Safety awareness: strong understanding of laboratory safety protocols and procedures, including handling of hazardous materials and biological specimens.

• High school diploma or high school diploma equivalency.

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, biochemistry, neuroscience, genetics, or a related field.
• Minimum of three years of relevant experience.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.