Research Assistant/Technician 3 - UBC, Vancouver

Position summary

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant/Technician 3 in protein production and characterization to support PROGENITER, a world-class research program at UBC, to develop protein reagents and 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). The incumbent will report to Dr. Sriram Subramaniam, the Director of PROGENITER, and work closely with other members of the research team.

Your impact

In this UBC careers opportunity, you will perform essential laboratory duties including the following tasks:

• Perform molecular cloning, propagation, and purification of plasmids
• Perform recombinant protein expression in bacterial, insect, and mammalian cell culture systems
• Perform protein purification using multi-step chromatographic techniques such as FPLC affinity chromatography, SEC, IEX, HIC, and preparation of samples for subsequent analysis
• Perform in-process and final protein quality check analysis using techniques such as Western Blot, SDS-PAGE and capillary electrophoresis, DLS, DSF, and SEC-MALS
• Perform binding and functional analysis using BLI and SPR and plate reader-based biochemical assays
• Maintain a detailed laboratory notebook and electronic records; communicate experimental results to the supervisor and team members regularly
• Operate and maintain protein core instrumentation including refrigerators, centrifuges, FPLC, plate imagers, and other biochemical and biophysical benchtop equipment
• Restock laboratory consumables as needed
• Assist in development and maintenance of SOPs for purification and QC workflows
• Additional responsibilities as assigned, aligning with the qualifications and requirements of positions within this classification

Who we're looking for

To qualify for these jobs in UBC Vancouver Campus - Vancouver, candidates must meet the minimum qualifications or offer an equivalent combination of education and experience:

• Completion of a relevant technical program or a university degree in a relevant discipline and a minimum three years of related 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

Preferred qualifications for this administration jobs UBC Vancouver Campus - Vancouver posting include:

• A degree in biochemistry, biotechnology, or a related discipline with 3-5 years of related research experience
• Experience with PCR and cloning techniques, including bacterial transformation and plasmid purification
• Aseptic techniques for handling bacterial and mammalian cell cultures
• Recombinant protein expression in bacterial and mammalian cell lines
• In-depth experience with protein purification and characterization and operating related instruments such as KingFisher Apex and LabChip
• Familiarity with biophysical characterisation instruments such as nanoDSF/DLS or SEC-MALS and 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 and communication skills; ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment
• Proficiency with data analysis and scientific software and standard office applications