Research Assistant​/Technician

Job Title

Research Assistant /Technician 3

Subramaniam Laboratory | Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology | Faculty of Medicine

$4,567.04 - $5,385.67 CAD Monthly

February 19, 2026

January 31, 2027

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant/Tech 3 to support PROGENITER, a multi-year research program to develop therapeutics that target infectious diseases at an accelerated pace. The successful candidate will be responsible for the production and purification of proteins and protein complexes of interest to the research program and will be closely involved in testing of protein activity using a variety of in vitro and cell‑based assays.

We are looking for a dynamic and self‑motivated team player who thrives in a fast‑paced and challenging lab environment.

PROGENITER is a University of British Columbia‑affiliated, nationally recognized, multi‑year research program to enable the rapid design, engineering, and production of antibody leads against present and future viral diseases to ensure Canada is better prepared for the next pandemic. PROGENITER is a key component of Canada’s Immuno‑Engineering and Biomanufacturing Hub (CIEBH). Our interdisciplinary team of researchers, students, staff, and industry partners work together to discover, test, and advance therapeutics that target infectious diseases at an accelerated pace.

This mission aligns with CIEBH’s vision for rapidly responding to new health threats and Canada’s national pandemic preparedness strategy (BLSS).

• Perform molecular cloning, propagation and purification of plasmids
• Perform recombinant protein expression in
  
  E. coli, insect and mammalian cell culture systems
• Perform protein purification using techniques such as FPLC affinity chromatography, SEC, IEX, and preparation of samples for subsequent analysis
• Perform protein characterization using techniques such as SDS‑PAGE, Western Blotting, DSF, BLI, plate reader‑based biochemical assays
• Maintain mammalian cell cultures and develop cell‑based assays
• Maintain detailed lab notebook and communicate experimental results to the supervisor and other members of the lab on a regular basis
• Analyze, interpret, and communicate biochemical data with proficiency
• Operate and maintain essential biochemical equipment including benchtop instruments, small and large centrifuges and autoclave
• Restock laboratory consumables as needed
• Performs additional responsibilities as assigned, aligning with the qualifications and requirements of positions within this classification

Failure to maintain a high standard of work and consistent communication between team members and the supervisors will result in project delays and affect the quality of research output, which may impact working conditions, reputation, and funding for the research group and UBC.

Failure to follow all applicable safety precautions, including a thorough risk assessment before conducting an experiment, may result in serious injury to the incumbent and others in the surrounding area.

Once trained, the technician is expected to work independently, following established protocols, but in close communication with other team members. Dr. Sriram Subramaniam will supervise the technician.

Completion of a relevant technical program or a university degree in a relevant discipline and a minimum three years of related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Willingness to respect diverse perspectives, including perspectives in conflict with one’s own
• Demonstrates a commitment to enhancing one’s own awareness, knowledge, and skills related to equity, diversity, and inclusion

A degree in biology, biotechnology, or biochemistry is preferred, with 3–5 years of related research experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• PCR and cloning techniques, including bacterial transformation and plasmid purification
• Aseptic techniques for handling bacterial and mammalian cell cultures
• In‑depth experience with protein purification and characterization
• Familiarity with mammalian cell line culturing
• Experience with transient expression of plasmids in mammalian cell lines
• Familiarity with plate‑based luminescent/fluorescent assays
• Aptitude for learning new technologies, including instrumentation and software
• Ability to prioritize work and deliver results in a fast‑paced environment
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Demonstration of detailed record‑keeping and data documentation
• Strong interpersonal skills, including maintaining professional working relationships within a diverse research group.
• Proficiency with standard computer skills (e.g. Microsoft Office)