Research Technician II
About The Position
The Research Technician II will report to Dr. Shaf Keshavjee and join the Toronto Lung Transplant Program at the Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network. This research program focuses on advancing translational lung research, including ex vivo organ perfusion, transplant biology, and innovative therapeutic approaches to improve patient outcomes. The successful candidate will contribute to a dynamic, multidisciplinary research environment supporting studies involving human tissues, preclinical models, and advanced laboratory techniques aimed at improving lung transplantation and organ preservation strategies. The Research Technician II will play a key role in supporting experimental workflows and the day‑to‑day operation of the lab. Responsibilities include assisting with ex vivo lung perfusion experiments, preparing biological samples, performing molecular and cellular assays, and maintaining accurate experimental records. The role also involves supporting surgical and sterile procedures, managing lab inventory and equipment, and ensuring compliance with biosafety and animal care protocols. Depending on experience, the candidate will perform tasks of increasing complexity, contribute to protocol development, and support a collaborative team environment within a leading translational research program.
Requirements
- BSc or college diploma in Physiology, Biomedical Science, Veterinary Technology, Physiology, or a related discipline
- Minimum 2 years of relevant experience in an academic research setting
- Familiarity with basic laboratory procedures, including sample collection, centrifugation, biospecimen storage, and reagent preparation is required
- Strong manual dexterity and attention to detail in sample collection
- Knowledge of aseptic technique and experimental care protocols
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team, follow detailed protocols, and communicate effectively with a multidisciplinary team
- Organizational skills for coordinating supplies, maintaining records, and ensuring readiness for experimental procedures
- Problem-solving skills
- Good verbal and written communication skills
- Excellent computer skills in MS Office: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook
Nice To Haves
- Experience in handling pre-clinical models, including perioperative care is encouraged.
- Prior experience in ex vivo organ perfusion or surgical support is an asset
- Experience in: flow cytometry, cell/tissue culture and cell immunology, multiplexed cytokine analysis, quantitative PCR, magnetic cell separation and ELISA
Responsibilities
- Prepare reagents and solutions and perform routine biochemical assays as directed
- Prepare precision cut lung slices and histology samples
- Assist with setup and operation of ex vivo perfusion systems for isolated lung studies
- Support sterile surgical setups, organ recovery and ex vivo organ monitoring
- Collect and analyze tissue, blood, and perfusate samples for downstream analysis, including in vitro experimentation
- Ensure compliance with ACC/IACUC protocols and maintain detailed health and procedural records
- Maintain lab cleanliness, inventory, and proper function of lab equipment (e.g., anesthesia machines, perfusion pumps, centrifuges)
- Assist with sample labeling, storage, and cataloguing (e.g., frozen tissues, paraffin blocks)
- Ensure availability and safe handling of gases (e.g., oxygen, isoflurane), and coordinate with care teams as needed
- Record experimental observations, surgical notes, and sample metadata with accuracy and consistency
- Contribute to lab documentation including protocols, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and biosafety logs
- All necessary biosafety training will be provided by UHN and the Comparative Research Platform
Benefits
- Competitive offer packages
- Government organization and a member of the Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan (HOOPP)
- Close access to Transit and UHN shuttle service
- A flexible work environment
- Opportunities for development and promotions within a large organization
- Additional perks (multiple corporate discounts including: travel, restaurants, parking, phone plans, auto insurance discounts, on-site gyms, etc.)
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
Associate degree
