Job Description

Staff - Non Union
Job Category Non Union Technicians and Research Assistants
Job Profile Non Union Salaried - Research Assistant /Technician 4
Job Title Non-Union Salaried - Research Assistant/Technician 4
Department LSI Leadership | Life Science Institute | Faculty of Science
Compensation Range $5,220.98 - $6,124.46 CAD Monthly
Posting End Date May 18, 2025
Note: Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on the Posting End Date.
Job End Date May 10, 2026
This position is expected to be filled by promotion/reassignment and is included here to inform you of its vacancy at the University.
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.
Job Summary
Coordinate, facilitate, and assist in delivering a new stream of analytical services to be offered through the Proteomics & Metabolomics Core Facility. Independent planning, performing, and analyzing data from experiments involving isolation and preparation of bone and other environmental samples for analysis by mass spectrometry for the purposes of identifying the taxonomic origin of samples. Precise preparation of samples and operation of mass spectrometry systems to analyze client samples, analysis of mass spectrometry data.
Organizational Status
This position will report directly to the Operations Manager, with dotted-line reporting to the Academic Director of the facility and Camilla Speller. Will consult with the whole leadership team when problems are encountered and when new methods are being used. Will assist graduate students with techniques. Will train and oversee one other technician and undergraduate research assistants. Will train other technicians and students in lab methods. Fully responsible for independent experiments and outcomes. Needs to be able to work with First Nations and other Indigenous groups, particularly around the sensitive handling of certain samples.
Work Performed
Carry out individual research projects to determine the taxonomic origin of environmental samples collected by clients. Prepare samples for mass spectrometric analysis. Receive samples from clients, analyze samples and report results back. Track activities in an on-line sample-tracking system. Develop and improve analytical methods. Attend weekly lab meetings. Supervise another technician and undergraduate research assistants. Train other staff and students. Consult with and communicate with clients of the facility
Consequence of Error/Judgement
Exercises a considerable amount of judgment, responsibility, and initiative in determining work procedures and methods, and coordinating the work of the unit. Many of the anticipated samples will require considerable sensitivity, both in handling and in how results are communicated back to the client. Poor decisions could delay the timely completion of the project or be damaging to the reputation of the facility. In addition, the impact, if an error occurred, would be a misinterpretation of results in the information disseminated to decision-makers and in publications.
Supervision Received
Work independently. Consult with Operations Manager and other staff as projects develop.
Supervision Given
Coordinate lab activities and provide training to other lab personnel.
Minimum Qualifications
Completion of a university degree in a relevant discipline or technical program and a minimum four years of related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Some positions may require a graduate degree.
- Willingness to respect diverse perspectives, including perspectives in conflict with ones own
- Demonstrates a commitment to enhancing ones own awareness, knowledge, and skills related to equity, diversity, and inclusion
Preferred Qualifications
Graduate degree in anthropology, with experience handling protein samples for proteomic analyses. Experience dealing with Indigenous groups regarding these types of samples. Willingness to respect diverse perspectives, including perspectives in conflict with ones own. Demonstrates a commitment to enhancing ones own awareness, knowledge, and skills related to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
Thorough knowledge of modern molecular biology techniques is an asset. Ability to use standard office software and other job-related equipment. Effective oral and written communication, analytical, interpersonal, record-keeping, and organizational skills required. Ability to communicate effectively in writing. Ability to communicate effectively verbally. Ability to work in a team environment. Ability to work independently with minimal supervision. Accuracy and attention to detail required. Demonstrated ability to use sound judgment