Job Description

Staff - Union
Job Category
CUPE 116
Job Profile
CUPE 116 Salaried - Research Assistant /Technician 2
Job Title
CUPE 116 Research Assistant Tech 2
Department
Taghipour, Fariborz | Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering | Faculty of Applied Science
Compensation Range
$4,426.00 - $4,845.00 CAD Monthly
Posting End Date
May 30, 2025
Note: Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on the Posting End Date.
Job End Date
Dec 13, 2025
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.
The department of Chemical & Biological Engineering at UBC - Vancouver is seeking a Research Assistant for Dr.Taghipour's lab. https://chbe.ubc.ca/fariborz-taghipour/
This position is for a 6 months term, with the possibility of extension depending on the availability of research funding.
Job Summary
The successful candidate will support experimental research focused on the synthesis and characterization of photo-activated semiconductor materials. Responsibilities include developing and testing UV-activated gas sensor prototypes, conducting laboratory and field evaluations, and analyzing experimental data. The role also involves preparing technical documentation and contributing to scientific publications.

Organizational Status

This position reports directly to Dr. Taghipour. This position will work as part of Dr. Taghipour's research team and collaborate closely with other researchers in the lab.



Work PerformedConduct Experimental Research: Perform experimental synthesis of semiconductor materials, focusing on photo-activated material and solid solutions. Material Synthesis and Characterization: Synthesize and characterize various photo-activated material using advanced techniques such as SEM-EDX, TEM, TGA, XRD, IR spectroscopy, and BET. Prototype Development: Design and develop UV-activated gas sensor prototypes, including hardware design, sourcing components, and assembling sensors. Laboratory and Field Testing: Evaluate sensor performance in laboratory settings and conduct field testing to validate sensor functionality. Data Management and Analysis: Compile and analyze experimental data, comparing results with theoretical predictions to assess data quality. Technical Documentation: Prepare detailed reports and contribute to scientific publications. Operates, maintains, and troubleshoots standard laboratory equipment. Organizes laboratory stock, maintains inventory, and distributes supplies as needed. May assist in training and onboarding new staff and assigning tasks to employees at lower classification levels. Performs other related duties as required in alignment with the qualifications and scope of the position.


Consequence of Error/Judgement

Works within well-defined guidelines and established procedures, exercising sound judgment in setting priorities and completing tasks efficiently. Unusual or complex issues are escalated to the supervisor. Errors in judgment or failure to follow protocols may impact the accuracy of research results, delay project timelines, or compromise laboratory operations.



Supervision Received

Works under general supervision in carrying out familiar phases of duties and responsibilities; receives instructions during orientation and on subsequent new assignments or changes in procedures.



Supervision Given

May distribute work assignments to employees at lower classification levels and initiate new employees into routines, procedures and operation of equipment.



Minimum Qualifications

High school graduation, some additional training in a related field and a minimum two 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 QualificationsA Ph.D. or a Master's degree in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry, or a closely related field. Candidates with directly relevant experience are strongly preferred.

Technical Skills and Experience:Proven experience in the synthesis and characterization of semiconductor materials, particularly UV-activated semiconductors. Proficiency in advanced material characterization techniques, including SEM-EDX, TEM, TGA, XRD, IR spectroscopy, and BET analysis. Demonstrated ability to design and develop photo-activated sensor prototypes, with hands-on experience in hardware design. Familiarity with sourcing, assembling, and troubleshooting sensor components or similar devices. Experience with laboratory and field testing of sensors or similar devices, including performance evaluation. Proficiency in data management, statistical analysis, and comparison of experimental results with theoretical predictions.

Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills:Strong analytical thinking with the ability to troubleshoot complex experimental issues. Ability to independently design and execute experiments, ensuring accurate and reproducible results.

Communication and Documentation Skills:Proven experience in preparing detailed technical reports and contributing to scientific publications. Strong verbal and written communication skills for presenting experimental findings.

Additional Considerations:Previous experience working in an R&D or academic research environment. Experience with safety protocols for chemical and material synthesis laboratories. * Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team setting.