Research Technician at University of Alberta, Edmonton

AI Summary

The University of Alberta in Edmonton seeks a Research Technician for key clinical and cell-based sample processing. This role involves conducting anaerobic microbe assays and performing RNA/DNA extractions for research. Candidates need a Bachelor of Science degree and at least two years of independent lab experience, particularly with anaerobic cultures and sequencing preparation.

About the Role

This Research Technician position at the University of Alberta, located in Edmonton, Alberta, offers a unique opportunity to contribute to vital clinical and cell-based research. Working under the direct supervision of Dr. Heather Armstrong, the role primarily supports the processing of human and animal stool samples, along with RNA/DNA extractions for 16S and shotgun metagenomics. A significant aspect involves advanced clinical specimen culture methods and routine cell culture, alongside assisting with immunochemical and anaerobic microbe assays. The successful candidate will be deeply involved in biochemical experiments, including microscopy, flow cytometry, histopathology, and ELISAs, investigating diet-microbiome-host interactions in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This hands-on lab environment requires a dedicated individual proficient in various scientific techniques and committed to advancing important research outcomes within the university.

Key Responsibilities and Expertise

The core responsibilities for this Research Technician involve performing routine lab assays with human and animal tissues, stool, anaerobic microbes, or cell lines. A particular focus will be on genomic extractions and library preparations for sequencing, as well as independently maintaining and culturing anaerobic microbes. Candidates should possess advanced experience with anaerobic cultures, sequencing preparation, and biochemical assays. Beyond experimental work, the role includes operating and maintaining essential lab equipment, such as anaerobic chambers, centrifuges, and incubators. Effective communication is crucial, involving data analysis, preparing graphs, and delivering PowerPoint presentations of results for lab meetings. The technician will also contribute to general lab organisation, inventory management, and assist the supervisor in teaching scientific techniques to trainees, sharing valuable experience within the university setting in Alberta. This role demands a high level of precision and adherence to established procedures in a dynamic research environment.

Qualifications and Skills

To excel in this Research Technician role at the University of Alberta, candidates must hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Medicine, Physiology, Microbiology, or a closely related study area. A minimum of two years of independent experience with laboratory analysis techniques is essential. Specific expertise required includes independently running and operating an anaerobic chamber and culturing live anaerobic microbes, demonstrating critical practical experience. Further qualifications include proven experience with RNA/DNA extractions and library preparation for sequencing, as well as proficiency in clinical sampling, histopathology, tissue sample processing, immunohistochemistry, and/or immunofluorescence. Experience with cell culture and biochemical endpoint analysis, such as ELISA, flow cytometry, and qPCR, is also necessary for this research-intensive position. The ability to independently adapt techniques, plan and carry out experiments, and master new and difficult techniques through continuous learning is highly valued within our dynamic lab environment in Alberta. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, are paramount for collaborating effectively on research projects and contributing to manuscript preparation. Completion of the Tri-Council Policy Statement: Ethical Conduct for Research Involving Humans Course on Research Ethics (TCPS 2: CORE) training is also a requirement for this role at the university.