Research Assistant/Technician 3

Staff - Union

Job Category: CUPE 116 Job Profile: CUPE 116 Salaried - Research Assistant /Technician 3 Job Title: Research Assistant/Technician 3 Department: Research l Domeier I Department of Microbiology I Faculty of Science Compensation Range: $4,757.00 - $5,187.00 CAD Monthly Posting End Date: February 2, 2025

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

Job End Date: Feb 28, 2026

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:
The Domeier laboratory located at the Life Sciences Institute in the department of Microbiology and Immunology. The research goal of the Domeier laboratory is to understand the mechanisms that maintain the balance of protective and pathogenic antibody responses. One arm of the laboratory will focus on optimizing B cell responses after vaccination, whereas the other research arm of this group will focus on preventing the generation of autoantibodies that can cause autoimmune inflammation. This work will largely use advanced spectral flow cytometry, microscopy, specialized transgenic mouse models, and human tonsil organoid culture systems to study B cell responses in vivo and in vitro. In addition to assisting with experiment design and execution, applicants will be expected to maintain laboratory equipment, assist with ordering/maintenance of reagent stocks, and maintaining mouse colonies. Successful applicants are expected to ethically conduct research in compliance with the rules and regulations defined by the University of British Columbia. This role will be performed under the direct supervision of the principal investigator.

Organizational Status:
The successful candidate will report directly to Dr. Phil Domeier, the principal investigator, and will work in a strongly collaborative and collegial manner with all project team members to meet research goals and objectives.

Work Performed:
- Design, plan and conduct lab experiments independently. Lab techniques performed may include: manage cell culture, perform molecular biology techniques including DNA/RNA/protein isolation, PCR, gel electrophoresis, flow cytometry, immunofluorescence staining, human clinical sample preparation, transgenic animal sample collection, and ELISA.

- Assist with mouse models, small animal handling, husbandry, and colony management.

- Troubleshoot experiments with the principal investigator, repeating experiments as needed.

- Compile, analyze, and summarize data using statistical and other computer-based software.

- Participate in meetings related to technical, scientific, and organizational aspects of the projects.

- Contribute to scientific publications and grant writing.

- Assist in training and mentoring new lab members in the proper use of lab equipment, techniques, and procedures.

- General lab housekeeping and maintenance, which may include maintaining common buffer stocks, waste management, and organization.

- Other related tasks and duties as required.

Consequence of Error/Judgement:
The technician is expected to exercise good judgment in planning and scheduling their work. New or unusual problems encountered while performing their work will be referred to the PI. Risks associated with errors range from minor to high impact on research. If errors result in the loss of a lab culture or an experiment, the consequences are that research progress is slowed and research goals and timelines may not be met. To minimize errors, training will be provided, and support for learning and development on the job will be provided. Additionally, supervision of progress and decisions, especially at the beginning of the position, will help to minimize these risks.

Supervision Received:
The applicant will be trained in various research techniques and expected to perform the tasks independently. The principal investigator will assist in troubleshooting as needed.

Supervision Given:
The research technician will help supervise and train new undergraduate and graduate students.

Minimum Qualifications:
- Completion of a relevant technical program or a university degree in a relevant discipline and a minimum of 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:
Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing. Ability to analyze problems, identify key information and issues, and effectively resolve.