Job Description

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The Couturier Lab seeks a dedicated Research Assistant I / Lab Manager to support its activities in brain cancer research. Working closely with lab members of all levels, the incumbent will assist in tissue processing, sequencing preparation, training, and day-to-day lab organization while ensuring smooth functioning of research activities, supply management, and compliance with safety and ethics regulations.
This position combines hands-on experimental work with lab management responsibilities, offering comprehensive training in single-cell and spatial -omics within an interdisciplinary neuro-oncology team.
About the Lab
The Couturier Lab integrates single-cell, spatial, and imaging-based omics to deconstruct brain tumour behaviours into their cellular and molecular building blocks. Our research spans the interface of molecular biology, computational modeling, and clinical imaging, with the aim of translating mechanistic discoveries into precision strategies for patient care.
Based at The Neuro (Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital), the lab is part of a dynamic ecosystem that bridges fundamental discovery with translational neuro-oncology through collaborations with international partners in the USA and Europe. The group's work spans glioma biology, tumor-immune-vascular interactions, and spatial transcriptomic modeling.
Key Responsibilities
Research support

• Assist with Illumina NextSeq 2000 sequencing, including reagent setup, sample loading, and data transfer.
• Prepare frozen and FFPE tissue sections for histology and spatial transcriptomics.
• Support molecular biology workflows (RNA/DNA extraction, cDNA synthesis, library QC).
• Keep detailed experimental records and comply with biosafety and ethics protocols.
• Provide general lab support, equipment maintenance, and data entry as required.

Lab management

• Oversee day-to-day operations, including equipment maintenance, inventory, and ordering.
• Implement and document standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Ensure compliance with safety inspections and institutional guidelines.
• Liaise with administrative offices for purchasing, invoicing, and record-keeping.

Qualifications

• B.Sc. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Neuroscience, or related field.
• 1 year research experience in a wet-lab setting.

Familiarity with standard molecular biology and histology techniques. * Training on Illumina instruments or cryostats is an advantage but can be provided.
Other Required Skills and Abilities

• Strong attention to detail.
• Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Eagerness to learn new laboratory techniques.
• Good communication skills and willingness to work as part of a team.

Ability to follow established protocols and maintain accurate documentation.
Compensation and Terms

• Duration: 1-year full-time appointment, renewable depending on performance and funding.
• Start date: Winter 2026
• Salary: In accordance with McGill's

. * Comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Health and dental coverage.
• Pension plan participation.

Why Join Us?

• Unique opportunity to work at the forefront of neuro-oncology and spatial immunogenomics.
• Access state-of-the-art equipment: 10x Xenium, Visium HD and Chromium X, PhenoCycler Fusion, and Illumina NextSeq 2000.
• Thrive in The Neuro's open-science environment, fostering data sharing and interdisciplinary innovation.

This position is covered by the AMURE collective agreement:
Before applying, please note that to work at McGill University, you must be both authorized to work in Canada and willing to work in the province of Quebec at the campus where the position is based / located.
Knowledge of French and English: McGill University is an English-language university where day to day duties may require English communication both verbally and in writing. The level of English required for this position has been assessed at a level 4 on a scale of 0-4.
Hourly Salary: $29.87
Hours per Week: 35 (Full time)
Location: Montreal Neuro.
Supervisor: Assistant Professor (Clinical)
Position Start Date: 2026-01-20
Position End Date: 2027-01-20
Deadline to Apply: 2025-12-13
This position is covered by the Association of McGill University Research Employees (AMURE) collective agreement.
McGill University hires on the basis of merit and is strongly committed to equity and diversity within its community. We welcome applications from racialized persons/visible minorities, women, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, ethnic minorities, and persons of minority sexual orientations and gender identities, as well as from all qualified candidates with the skills and knowledge to productively engage with diverse communities. McGill implements an employment equity program and encourages members of designated groups to self-identify. Persons with disabilities who anticipate needing accommodations for any part of the application process may contact, in confidence, .

Skills Required