Job Description

Canadian Nuclear Laboratories is bringing together the finest minds to form a diverse, vibrant and dynamic workforce culture energized by the innovative capacity of students, new graduates and mid-career professionals, underpinned by senior world renowned experts. We hire numerous students each semester from colleges and universities to support our research and perform other assignments. If you are looking for interesting and challenging work this summer then keep reading, and if you meet the requirements of this role, apply today.

Department: Radiobiology & Health

Number of Positions: 1

Duration: 4 to 12 months (beginning in May - length depending on successful candidate)

Discipline: University program in any biology-related field (e.g., Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, immunology etc.)

Year of study: Completed a minimum of two years of university

Location: Chalk River, ON

NOTE:

All students applying for student positions at CNL must be returning to full-time studies upon completion of their work term. Exceptions will be made for students who require a work term in order to graduate.

Students must submit a resume, cover letter and copy of an up-to-date transcript by the posting close date of November 23, 2022 @ 11:59pm to ensure consideration for student employment.

INTRO
The Radiobiology and Health branch of Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL) is seeking an enthusiastic undergraduate or graduate student with a strong passion in life sciences who is interested in participating in an exciting research study exploring the effects of radiation on different cell types with a special focus on the cell cycle pathway. The co-op placement will last between 4 months to 12 months starting in May 2023.

Cell cycle pathway is intricately linked with cellular responses to radiation. Molecular mechanisms of cellular responses to high doses of radiation have been extensively studied in the past decades, however, the effects of low dose ionizing radiation (LDIR) on the cell cycle remain elusive. In this study, we aim to determine how LDIR modulates cell cycle regulatory proteins and checkpoints in different cell types - from cancerous cells to normal cells and stem cells. This project will greatly contribute to assessing the risks and benefits of LDIR in humans and pave the way for future research determining the effects of Targeted alpha therapy on cell cycle regulation. A successful candidate will be involved in experiments such as measuring the effects of radiation in vitro system, culturing of mouse or tumor cell lines, and extraction of RNA/protein. Other conventional methods (western blot, fluorescent microscopy, CRISPR) may also be part of this project. Students also take part in reviewing literature and writing scientific reports. Results will be published in peer-reviewed scientific journals.

RESPONSIBILITIES
Duties include but not limited to:

• Following detailed written and verbal instructions under supervision, as well as conducting experiments independently once trained
• Use of various laboratory equipment and associated software for sample preparation and data analyses
• Generating written reports (MS Word, MS PowerPoint, MS Excel) showing processed and analyzed experimental data
• Manual labor such as cleaning and labeling laboratory equipment
• Preparation of chemical solutions and laboratory reagents
• Attendance at staff meetings and training courses when required

Work Characteristics:

• Handling reagents that may be chemical or biological hazards, according to proper safe laboratory practice
• Handling of mouse biological samples
• Physical demands include the ability to remain in seated or standing positions for long periods of time for routine pipetting at the lab bench, computer desktops or microscopes
• Training (e.g., laboratory and workplace health and safety, radiation protection) will be completed as required by the supervisor or management

REQUIREMENTS

• Completed a minimum of two years of university and must be returning to university, either at undergraduate or graduate level, in a Biology related field.
• General knowledge of chemical solution preparation
• Theoretical knowledge of the biology of the cell
• Theoretical knowledge of cell and molecular biology and biochemical methods mentioned above (some or all; hand-on experience will be an asset)
• Analytical and problem-solving skills and effective oral and written communication skills
• Ability to quickly learn aseptic human and/or mouse cell culture technique
• Demonstrated the ability to work as an effective team member and to respond to challenging schedule demands (overtime or flexible work schedules may occasionally be required)
• The successful candidate will not have any allergies to rodents as there will be regular contact with them, in this position.
• Previous work experience in a biology lab setting is preferred

MAJORS
The scientific field of study - Any biology-related field (e.g., Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, immunology etc.)