Lab Scientist - Genome Analyst

Salary

The salary range for this position is CAD $45.48/Hr. - CAD $65.38/Hr.

Job Summary

Come work as a Lab Scientist - Genome Analyst with Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH)!

As an integral member of the Cytogenetics Laboratory, the Lab Scientist specializing in Genome Analysis will be responsible for performing analysis and clinical interpretation of hematologic cancer specimen testing results produced using state-of-the-art genomic technology, Optical Genome Mapping (OGM). They will also perform wet-lab procedures for test validation/verification and clinical research activities, working under the daily direction of the Director of the Cytogenomics Laboratory and the regular direction of the Department Head.

The Lab Scientist must demonstrate an ability to work independently and as a member of a multidisciplinary team while appropriately prioritizing competing demands. Additional support and training will be provided in areas of limited expertise.

As a Lab Scientist - Genome Analyst with Vancouver Coastal Health you will:

• Utilize current software tools, databases, and primary literature to investigate the clinical relevance of variants detected using OGM.
• Develop processes and procedures for data analysis and draft variant annotations.
• Utilize practical and theoretical knowledge for the analysis of cytogenetics data in collaboration with staff Cytogeneticists and Molecular Geneticists.
• Generate and analyze sequence-based genomic data; adapt bioinformatic scripts for specialized analyses.
• Experience generating and analyzing data from Oxford Nanopore Technologies and/or other long-read sequencing platforms will be considered a strong asset.
• Complete required laboratory database and reporting activities related to variant analyses.
• Perform wet-lab procedures and troubleshooting related to OGM and other assay verification activities, as needed.
• Participate in knowledge translation activities.
• Gather pertinent clinical data from the medical record to assist in OGM analysis.
• Support clinical research activities within the Cytogenomics Laboratory, as needed.
• Carry out responsibilities in accordance with health and safety requirements.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Completion of a recognized Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program in Cancer Genetics, Molecular Genetics, Cytogenetics or related discipline.
• Experience in wet-lab performance of molecular genetics techniques, and knowledge of the theory and practice of current cytogenetic and/or molecular genetic laboratory procedures, instruments, equipment and specialized techniques are essential.
• Experience in analysis of chromosomal microarray or next-generation sequencing data is preferred.
• Experience with test validation is an asset.
• Experience with the use of genetic databases/resources and software (e.g., Atlas of Genetics, gnomAD, COSMIC, CIViC, PubMed) is preferred.

Knowledge & Abilities

• Excellent problem recognition and problem-solving skills.
• Effective organizational, time management, and prioritization skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Proven track record in research and academic communication activities.
• Ability to work independently and accurately under time pressure.
• Ability to work effectively as a member of a multidisciplinary team.
• Willingness to complete cross-functional duties consistent with the job classification, as assigned.
• Must be computer literate in Windows-based applications.
• Demonstrated interest in continuing education.
• Physical ability to perform the duties of the position.

Closing Statement

The hours of work including days off and work area may be subject to change consistent with operational requirements and the provision of the Collective Agreement and applicable statutes. Successful applicants may be required to complete a Criminal Records Review Check.

As per Ministry of Health policy, all health care workers working in publicly-funded health care facilities are required to report their past receipt of certain vaccines or history of certain infections.

WHY JOIN VANCOUVER COASTAL HEALTH?

VCH is a world-class innovator in medical care, research, and teaching, delivering service to more than one million BC residents. We invite you to join us in creating healthy lives in healthy communities.

• Comprehensive health benefits package, including MSP, extended health and dental and municipal pension plan.
• Grow your career with employer-paid training and leadership development opportunities.
• Wellness supports, including counselling and innovative wellness services are available to employees and their immediate families.
• Award-winning recognition programs to honour staff, medical staff, and volunteers.

At Vancouver Coastal Health, we support equitable practices, diverse teams, and inclusive environments. We encourage applications from equity-deserving communities. Vancouver Coastal Health is proud to be recognized as one of Canada's Top 100 Employers in 2024.

Only short-listed applicants will be contacted for this posting.