Research Assistant Tech 1

Job Title

Research Assistant Tech 1

Conibear Laboratory | Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics | Faculty of Medicine

Compensation Range $4,232.75 - $4,642.27 CAD Monthly

August 17, 2026

August 16, 2027

Candidate will assist with genetic experiments relating to membrane contact site biology; organization and handling of DNA and yeast and bacterial strains related to experimental protocols; coordinating workflow with other lab members for efficient conduct of experiments; troubleshooting and development of experimental protocols under supervision of senior research staff; assisting in the analysis of experimental results; receiving shipments of supplies and other reagents;

equipment maintenance and organization of supplies as required; and performing other related tasks.

All work is performed in a laboratory facility; approximately 90% of work is wet bench work and approximately 10% is computer-based. Incumbent will be expected to conduct workflows with minimal direct supervision following a monitored training period.

• Assists with organization and handling of plasmids, yeast and
  
  E. coli strains
• Assists with plasmid assembly, and PCR for the amplification and analysis of DNA samples
• Preparation of agarose gels and running of gel electrophoresis assays
• Assists with genetic, cell-based, or molecular biological assays as required, including western blotting, immunoprecipitation, and fluorescence microscopy
• Processing and analysis of experimental results and data as directed
• Provides general assistance with receiving and preparation of laboratory supplies
• Performs basic maintenance tasks on equipment as required
• Other related duties as required

The incumbent will make important decisions affecting the functioning of the lab and the generation of experimental data. Incompetence or incorrect decisions could jeopardize research progress, collaborations, finances and employee safety, and adversely impact future project objectives, funding, and personnel.

Direct supervision provided by the Principal Investigator, Dr. Elizabeth Conibear, with daily oversight provided by a senior Research Technician who reports to Dr. Conibear.

None but may explain workflow and experimental protocol to others.

• High school graduation and a minimum one year 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.

• BSc in Biology, Molecular Biology, or a related biological discipline.
• Ability to coordinate duties independently and communicate with others to ensure the efficient and smooth functioning of laboratory workflows.
• Effective oral and written communication, good organizational skills and the demonstrated ability to follow established guidelines and protocols.
• Sterile and reproducible laboratory technique.
• Ability to work independently or within a team environment and to complete work assignments in a timely fashion.
• Prior experience and demonstrated troubleshooting in a molecular biology laboratory setting is strongly preferred.
• Experience with Microsoft Office and Adobe Creative Suite software is preferred.

The University of British Columbia is a global centre for research and teaching, consistently ranked among the top 20 public universities globally. A large part of what makes us unique is the community of engaged students, faculty, and staff who are collectively committed to shaping a better world. Recognized as a leading employer in British Columbia and Canada, UBC supports inspired students, faculty and staff on their journey of discovery, and challenges them to realize their greatest potential.

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