Stem Cell Bioengineering Lab Technician
About The Position
The School of Biomedical Engineering (SBME) at the University of British Columbia (UBC) is a partnership between the Faculties of Applied Science and Medicine, established in 2017. The School is a nucleus for education and training, research, and innovation in biomedical engineering, creating new knowledge, new academic and training programs, and fostering translation and innovation. Its vision is to transform health and healthcare for all, achieved through innovative research and education at the convergence of engineering, medicine and biology. Through collaborative, innovative, and interdisciplinary approaches and building on UBC’s academic and research excellence, the School of Biomedical Engineering aspires to be a global leader in biomedical engineering research, education and translation. The SBME has two locations on Vancouver’s campus, the Gordon B Shrum building and the Biomedical Research Centre (BRC). For more information about the School of Biomedical Engineering, please visit https://www.bme.ubc.ca/. The Stem Cell Bioengineering Laboratory focuses on the development of technologies, bioprocesses and assays for the growth and differentiation of human stem cells. We are seeking a Research Technician to assist with the day-to-day operations of the wet lab, including but not limited to preparing stocks of key reagents, receiving and organizing deliveries, assisting with laboratory equipment calibration and maintenance, and providing project support to more senior lab members. This technician will interact with the principal investigator, research associates, the lab manager, graduate and undergraduate students, and postdoctoral fellows to effectively help maintain research operations in the lab while adhering to correct procedures and health and safety guidelines. The ideal candidate will manage their own tasks as well as assist others with minimal supervision. They will also possess a strong work ethic and promote a collaborative team environment. There will be opportunities to learn and progress to more complex tasks.
Requirements
- High school graduation, some additional training in a related field and a minimum two 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
Nice To Haves
- Background in molecular and cellular biology and bioengineering is an asset
- Working knowledge of laboratory equipment operations (e.g. pH meters, biological safety cabinets, centrifuges, incubators, microscopes, spectrophotometer, flow cytometer, autoclave) and procedures (e.g. handling compressed gas cylinders and liquid nitrogen cryostorage) is an asset
- Experience with tissue culture (and specific experience with human pluripotent and/or blood stem cells and experience with cryopreservation, thawing, cell banking, and maintenance of stem cell inventories) is an asset
- Experience with the development of SOPs and familiarity with quality management principles, including reagent traceability, documentation practices, and quality control of cell lines is an asset
- Experience maintaining electronic laboratory notebooks (ELNs), laboratory inventory systems, and digital records management systems is an asset
- Proficiency in standard computer software packages (e.g. Microsoft Office) for lab documentation, data entry and analysis is an asset
- Strong multi-tasking/time management skills are an asset
- Excellent organization and communication skills are an asset
- High level of hand eye coordination and dexterity and ability to lift supply boxes that weigh up to 20 pounds
Responsibilities
- Provide tissue culture and assay support, as needed, to various projects (e.g. stem cell differentiation studies)
- Support lab projects by independently conducting a variety of assays associated with primary cell culture (e.g. microscopy, flow cytometric and PCR)
- Follow established protocols for maintenance of laboratory notebook records
- Follow and improve standards for all aspects of the culture process, as well as quality control and monitoring of all stem cell lines
- Assist lab manager in training new members in cell culture techniques
- Act as a resource to students and staff in laboratory protocols and equipment usage
- Maintain inventory of all lab reagents/supplies (receive/store all lab supplies, ensure adequate stocks, and maintain inventory records on electronic lab system), in coordination with lab manager
- Prepare stocks for common cell culture reagents and chemical solutions
- Ensure all lab consumables are stocked and equipment is in working condition
- Perform other routine laboratory maintenance (incubators, water baths, freezers and fridges, glass washing and autoclaving, and general cleaning)
- Assist lab manager in working with vendors and repair technicians to coordinate routine maintenance and emergency repairs of key lab equipment
- Assist lab manager in training new lab members to ensure general instruments are used properly
- Keep up-to-date on correct safety procedures for Level 2 Biohazard conditions (e.g. proper disposal of biohazardous and chemical wastes)
- Assist lab manager in ensuring that the lab safety rules and regulations are posted and adhered to by all students and lab members, and revised as required
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
