Research Assistant/Technician III (Biobank Coordinator)

University of Guelph • Guelph, ON

11d • Onsite

About The Position

The Ontario Veterinary College (OVC) is a world leader in advancing veterinary science, education, and research with a mission to improve the health and lives of animals, people, and our planet. The Institute of Comparative Cancer Investigation (ICCI) is a collaborative research initiative within OVC dedicated to advancing comparative oncology through innovative research, partnerships, and knowledge translation. Reporting to ICCI leadership, the Research Assistant/Technician III (Biobank Coordinator) plays a critical role in supporting the ongoing development and operations of the OVC Biobank. This position is responsible for the coordination and stewardship of biological sample collections and associated data, enabling high-quality research that supports both internal and external investigators. Working in a highly collaborative research environment, the Coordinator will contribute to biobank operations, data integrity, and research access processes, while also supporting ICCI initiatives including research coordination, communications, and event planning. The role requires a high degree of independence, strong organizational skills, and the ability to manage complex data and processes with accuracy and discretion.

Requirements

• Undergraduate degree in a relevant field with experience in a research, laboratory, healthcare, or academic environment, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Experience working with databases and managing data quality, with demonstrated attention to detail and accuracy
• Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines
• Excellent interpersonal, communication (verbal and written), and relationship-building skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research environment
• Demonstrated ability to exercise sound judgment and maintain confidentiality when handling sensitive information
• Experience interpreting and applying policies, procedures, or research protocols
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and ability to learn and use specialized software systems

Nice To Haves

• Experience in a biobanking, clinical research, or academic setting is considered an asset

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and support the collection, processing, storage, and tracking of biological samples and associated data in alignment with established protocols and procedures
• Maintain and enhance the biobank database, including data entry, validation, quality control, and addressing historical data gaps to ensure completeness and accuracy
• Respond to researcher inquiries and coordinate access to samples, including assessing availability, preparing documentation, ensuring appropriate data handling and de-identification, and facilitating shipment or transfer
• Support the development, documentation, and ongoing review of standard operating procedures and ensure adherence to applicable research protocols and certification requirements
• Participate in external biobanking initiatives and networks, including contributing to reporting, data submissions, and working groups
• Coordinate ICCI activities and initiatives, including the planning and delivery of the annual Cancer Research Symposium and related communications
• Provide administrative and operational support to ICCI programs, including communications, listserv updates, meeting coordination, and outreach activities
• Support inventory and equipment tracking processes, including monitoring usage, coordinating maintenance, and assisting with procurement and vendor interactions
• Generates progress reports for research team, writes and/or acts as resource for the development of laboratory protocols
• Enforces laboratory safety rules and procedures
• Serves as a source of information or reference on standard research techniques, and trains others in technical procedures or operations, including use of precision laboratory equipment and instruments and provide recommendations on appropriate use, including guidance to students on use of equipment or standard research techniques for their research projects.
• Sets up, tests, calibrates, operates and maintains complex laboratory and other equipment; some troubleshooting to resolve equipment malfunctions before arranging for repairs; analyzes test results to measure the performance of developed systems and makes adjustments to experimental prototypes/systems as required

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level