Research Associate – McMaster's Laboratory

Job Title:  Research Associate

Employee Group:  Faculty

Faculty:  Medicine

Department:  Medical Genetics, Jack Bell Research Centre

Division:  Dr. W. Robert McMaster’s Laboratory

Duration:  2013-04-16 to 2015-04-15

Status of position:  part-time (60% FTE); grant funded

Job posted:  March 13, 2013

 

POSITION SUMMARY

Will perform experiments and analyze data related to stage specific gene and protein expression in Leishmania and host macrophages.

 

ORGANIZATIONAL STATUS

The individual will work independently and report to the principal investigator. Will attend weekly meetings of all laboratory personnel and present results when suitable for publication.

 

WORKED PERFORMED

Perform independently computational and statistical analysis of genomic and proteomic data. Perform molecular biological experiments including: RNA purification and analysis, tissue culture and transfection of cell lines, polymerase chain reaction, DNA sequence analysis, library construction and screening, cloning, Southern, Northern and Western blot analyses. Complete planning and conducting of experiments, troubleshooting and supervising of ongoing research projects. Prepare manuscripts and figures for publication.

 

CONSEQUENCE OF ERROR/JUDGEMENT 

The experiments to be performed require precision and manual dexterity and include the use of radioisotopes and recombinant Leishmania DNA. Incorrect results or errors will result in failure of the experiment resulting the drawing of incorrect conclusions or perusing incorrect research goals. Failure will also require the protocol to be repeated costing time and reagents.

 

SUPERVISION RECEIVED 

The successful applicant will be expected to perform experiments independently with only minimum supervision by the principal investigator.

 

SUPERVISION GIVEN 

Individual will demonstrate expertise in computational and laboratory techniques and be totally responsible for the training of new techniques to all lab members including graduate students, post-doctoral fellows and visiting scientists. Will establish protocols and procedures and supervise the use of shared equipment. Be totally responsible for the supervision of a research assistant level 3 and a technician level 1.

 

CONSEQUENCE OF ERROR/JUDGEMENT 

Will work in a laboratory with chemicals and biologicals (biohazard B level), Microbes and recombinant DNA will be routinely handled.

 

QUALIFICATIONS:

Graduate degree PhD with equivalent research experience. Expert understanding of genetics and molecular biological techniques is required. Expertise with computer based DNA and RNA and protein analysis. Demonstrated laboratory abilities and previous experience with molecular biology techniques required, RNA purification and analysis, radioisotope handling, transfection of cell lines and drug selection essential. Demonstrated ability to write manuscripts for publication, write and coordinate applications and proposals to granting agencies.

 

HOW TO APPLY

Exceptional candidates should submit a cover letter outlining your research interests and fit with research, curriculum vitae, and the names of three referees willing to provide letters of applications electronically to ubcmedgen@cw.bc.ca by April 15, 2013.

 

Due to the number of resumes we receive, we are unable to confirm receipt of submissions over the phone, or provide the status of the competition except to those who are selected for an interview.

 

Closing date: April 15, 2013

 

UBC hires on the basis of merit and is committed to employment equity.  We encourage all qualified persons to apply.  In accordance with Canadian immigration requirements, priority will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada.