Functional Genomics & Animal Microbiome Lab Technician

Staff - Non Union

Job Category: Non Union Technicians and Research Assistants
Job Profile: Non Union Salaried - Research Assistant /Technician 3
Job Title: Functional Genomics & Animal Microbiome Lab Technician
Department: Research Support | Guan Academic Group | Applied Biology Program | Faculty of Land and Food Systems
Compensation Range: $4,567.04 - $5,385.67 CAD Monthly
Posting End Date: March 6, 2025

Note: Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on the Posting End Date.

Job End Date: Dec 31, 2025

This position is expected to be filled by promotion/reassignment and is included here to inform you of its vacancy at the University.

At UBC, we believe that attracting and sustaining a diverse workforce is key to the successful pursuit of excellence in research, innovation, and learning for all faculty, staff and students. Our commitment to employment equity helps achieve inclusion and fairness, brings rich diversity to UBC as a workplace, and creates the necessary conditions for a rewarding career.

Job Summary:
This position will provide technical support to the Functional Genomics and Animal Microbiome Lab for ongoing research as well as provide assistance in lab management.

Organizational Status:
Reports to the Principal Investigator (Dr. Leluo Guan). Will work in Dr. Guan’s group consisting of research associate, postdoctoral fellows, graduate and undergraduate students at UBC Vancouver campus.

Work Performed:

• The technician will provide support conducting molecular experiments, including DNA, RNA isolation, PCR, qPCR, running gel electrophoresis and probe-based quantification assays.
• Under the direction of the supervisor, the technician will be responsible for providing support to operation and optimization of equipment in the lab.
• The position will be responsible for daily maintenance of a clean and safe laboratory environment and assisting lab members with techniques used in the lab and acquisition of the basic lab supplies as assigned by the supervisor.
• The technician will also assist sample collection on a dairy farm and organization in the lab.
• The technician will help purchase of supplies and materials for ongoing research.

Consequence of Error/Judgement:
Incorrect decisions, particularly in the field, would likely be costly in terms of wasted time and flawed data. Inappropriate judgment will cause missing data or biased results. Missed deadlines will delay timelines in the Professor’s research project.

Supervision Received:
Reports to the Principal Investigator (Dr. Guan).

Supervision Given:
None.

Minimum Qualifications:
Completion of a relevant technical program or a university degree in a relevant discipline and a minimum three 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.

Preferred Qualifications:
Preference for a Bachelor's degree in animal biotechnology and genomics or a Master of Science. Must be familiar with functional genomics approaches and cattle husbandry. Major responsibilities include conducting experiment for gene expression and next generation sequence, collection of animal samples after animal trials and data analysis.

Skills:

• Strong verbal, written communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong analytical and research skills.
• Must be adaptable and flexible.
• Must be sharp, energetic and conscientious.
• Must use time efficiently and able to multi-task.
• Must have accuracy and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and within a team environment.
• Must be physically fit with excellent stamina, able to perform work for extended periods of time in any weather conditions.
• Computer experience at an intermediate level is required (e.g. MS Word, Excel, Email, Internet).
• Must have Class 5 driver’s license.