JD #

JD00620

Pay Grade:

7

Title:

Research Laboratory Technician (III)

Unit/Project Description:

Working under close supervision, the Research Technician will provide research support to all three brain tumor research programs

in Singh lab. This includes performing various in vitro standardized and established laboratory experiments. The technician should

have in-depth experience with a variety of biochemistry and molecular biology techniques including but not limited to Western

blotting, cloning, PCR based techniques such as RT-PCR. The technician is expected to perform other experiments involving culture

of primary cells including Brain tumor cultures and T cells. The technician would also prepare common stock such as media, buffer

solutions etc., and maintain equipment for the lab. Other responsibilities include compiling orders, maintaining a supply inventory,

stocking supplies and trouble-shooting experiments. The technician would be an essential part of a large and dynamic team.

About the Department of Surgery

Over its 50+ year history, the McMaster Department of Surgery has maintained a steadfast commitment towards thinking big and

making it possible. We are a Department with 11 surgical divisions and Royal College residency training programs; together, we are

poised to unleash a future fueled by a creative mindset and powered by our people.

The successful candidate will bring a positive, solutions-focused mindset, as we collectively work towards achieving the Department

Vision. 

This Vision is based on 6 core tenets:

C.R.E.A.T.E.

Culture that includes

Research that impacts

Education that inspires

Advancement for all

Transformation through innovation & entrepreneurship

Excellence in patient care

About McMaster University

At McMaster University, our people are our most valuable asset. We strive to attract, develop, and retain the talented faculty and

staff, and to foster inclusive excellence which values the strengths, perspectives, and contributions of each individual.  McMaster is

recognized as one of the top employers in the Hamilton/Niagara region and has been recognized as one of Canada’s Top Diversity

employers.

Working at McMaster University brings a robust total rewards package, which is more than just a salary. The elements and structure

of the total rewards packages vary by employee group but include:

• Employer Paid benefits including Extended Health, Dental, Emergency Out-of-Country Travel Coverage & Basic Life Insurance.
• Pension Plan Options & Post-Retirement Benefits.
• Training, coaching and professional development opportunities.
• Employee tuition assistance for development and education.
• Opportunity to be a part of an academic environment working alongside professionals who share a passion for learning.
• Progressive paid annual vacation plan.

Please see Total Rewards Overview for Unifor, Local 5555, Unit 1 for more Information.

https://hr.mcmaster.ca/resources/unifor-unit-1-total-rewards-overview/

Job Summary:

The Research Laboratory Technician (III) is responsible for providing research support to faculty members in their research and teaching laboratory activities. This support includes performing standardized and non-standardized laboratory experiments and conducting literature searches for use in publications such as journal articles or papers. Works in a developing capacity with increased responsibility for performing a range of laboratory assignments under general direction.

Purpose and Key Functions:

• Perform various in-vitro and in-vivo procedures that are moderately complex and specialized.
• Provide recommendations for procedure modifications and development of the research protocol methodologies.
• Adapt and modify established methods, assays, techniques, and equipment for various laboratory and test procedures.
• Liaise with other laboratories, external departments, and agencies to coordinate resources and schedules to meet research objectives.
• Develop presentations and present information at meetings, seminars, and conferences.
• Recognize and investigate apparent reasons for obvious deviations in results obtained.
• Write a variety of documents such as technical and procedural sections for research reports and standard operating procedures.
• Observe details and maintain accurate records of experiments and results.
• Log samples and related pertinent information.
• Gather and compile experimental results and assist in the preparation of data for reports and publications.
• Use software to conduct moderately complex statistical analyses.
• Exchange technical and scientific information with others.
• Provide updates at research group meetings.
• Responsible for keeping laboratory facilities, equipment, and area in clean, safe working order.
• Assemble and adjust tests and laboratory equipment for experiments and procedures.
• Operate, adjust, and maintain a variety of laboratory equipment and scientific instruments.
• Ensue adequate supplies are available for experiments.
• Schedule laboratory equipment for use.
• Demonstrate and train others on experimental techniques and the operation of laboratory equipment.
• Prepare chemical reagents and biomedical media according to formulae and assume responsibility for accuracy in the preparation and standardization of solutions.
• Pipette a variety of reagents and media.
• Monitor supplies and order inventories.
• Responsible for the proper storage of materials and the appropriate disposal of waste.
• Adhere to standardized procedures and protocols when dispensing chemicals and base media.
• Input, maintain, and verify information in a variety of databases and spreadsheets.
• Conduct literature searches and write literature review summaries.

Requirements:

Bachelor's degree in a relevant field of study.

Requires 2 years of relevant experience.

Assets:

• Masters Degree would be an asset.
• Experience in cell culture techniques, molecular biology techniques.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Must be highly motivated, productive and organized.
• Attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Problem-solving and trouble shooting skills.
• Take initiative and solve administrative problems.