Research Associate – Lorincz’s Laboratory

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

 

Title:                     Research Associate

Location:             Life Sciences Centre, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3

Group:                 Dr. Matthew Lorincz’s Laboratory

Department:       Medical Genetics, Life Sciences Institute

Duration:             2016-09-01 to 2017-08-31

Tenure:               Full-time; grant funded

Job posted:        July 19, 2016

 

JOB SUMMARY

Project involves the study of the influence of specific histone modifications and associated chromatin factors on expression of genes and retroelements in gametes and in early mouse development. Expertise in isolation of mouse sperm and oocytes as well as cells from early mouse embryos required. Conduct analysis of epigenetic marks (chip-seq, meDIP-seq etc.) and expression (RNA-seq) using high-throughput sequencing methods optimized for small amounts of starting material. Conduct bioinformatic analyses of generated data.

 

ORGANIZATIONAL STATUS

The individual reports to the principal investigator but can operate on a daily basis independently.  Results are reviewed and additional experiments outlined on a weekly basis. Interacts with members of this and other laboratories in the Molecular Epigenetics Group regarding data generated and epigenetic mechanisms.

Attends weekly meetings of all laboratory workers and presents results of week’s work.

 

QUALIFICATIONS/WORK PERFORMED:

PhD in Genetics or related discipline with a proven track record in working with mouse models. Experience working with germ cells or embryonic development preferred.

At least 2 years of experience in the generation and analysis of next-generation sequencing data, including ChIP-seq and RNA-seq data from limiting numbers of cells.

Analyze next generation sequencing data, including whole genome, whole exome, RNA-Seq, ChIP-Seq and ATAC-seq data. Experience with various aligners (i.e BWA, TopHat, STAR) and ChIP-seq analysis tools (i.e FindPeaks, MACS, Broadpeaks) required.

Experience with various generic bioinformatics tools, including Samtools, UCSC genome browser, BLAT, clustalW, Circos, and ORFfinder recommended.

Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced interdisciplinary environment.

Strong academic publication record in the field of epigenetics.

Strong writing skills. Research Associate  will write manuscripts relating to work conducted with Dr. Lorincz.

Strong understanding of genetics and molecular biological techniques is required. Demonstrated bioinformatic skills required, with experience in analyses of chip-seq and RNA-seq data preferred.

 

CONSEQUENCE OF ERROR/JUDGEMENT

Mouse work requires strong attention to detail and animal husbandry techniques. The analyses performed require strong background in bioinformatics. Errors in wet lab or dry lab work will result in delayed output of dataset analyses.

 

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

After initial training the incumbent is expected to perform wet lab and bioinformatic analyses with only general supervision.  Routinely discusses results and plans for additional analyses with principal investigator on a daily or bi-weekly basis.

 

SUPERVISION GIVEN

Individual performs animal husbandry, molecular biology and bioinformatic analyses and teaches the application of theses tools to other lab members.

 

WORKING CONDITIONS

Works in a laboratory with chemicals and biologicals.  Radioisotopes, microbes, and recombinant DNA are routinely handled. Time spent in mouse facility, laboratory and computer lab/office.

 

HOW TO APPLY

If interested, please submit your cover letter and CV to:

Dr. Matthew Lorincz

E-mail: matthew.lorincz@ubc.ca

Closing date: August 19, 2016

 

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.