Job Description

Research Technician II

The research lab of Dr Katalin Szaszi is currently hiring a Research Technician II. This position requires a strong background in cell and molecular biology, and the ability to follow and optimise research protocols. The technician is expected to be capable of independently performing laboratory experiments and data analysis, and work with the Investigator and senior lab members to assist with experimental design.


Dr Katalin Szaszi's research lab is located at the Keenan Research Center for Biomedical Science at the St. Michael's Hospital and belongs to the Organ Injury and Repair Research Pillar. The project the technician will work on is funded by an NSERC collaborative grant awarded to the Szaszi lab in collaboration with Noa Therapeutics, a Toronto-based biotech company that explores the efficacy of various novel small molecules for the treatment of complex immune diseases. Funding is available for a technician for a 6-month period. The technician will conduct research that explores the molecular mechanisms whereby new drugs developed by Noa Therapeutics alter cell functions. The project will involve the use of cultured epithelial cell lines and the exploration of specific molecular pathways. The successful applicant must therefore have a strong background in cell culture and experience with common molecular techniques to analyze cells. Experience with complex tissue culture models is an advantage.


Don't meet every single requirement? Studies have shown that people in underrepresented communities are less likely to apply to jobs when they don't meet every single qualification. We are dedicated to building an inclusive workplace, so if you're excited about this role but your past experience doesn't align perfectly, we still welcome you to apply.

Duties & Responsibilities:

Due to the variable nature of position, this list is to be used as a guide only.


This position includes all of the duties/responsibilities of the Technician I position, as well as:

Laboratory Research Tasks (70% of work time)

Establish, optimize, and troubleshoot new experiments/assays upon first start in lab, with guidance from PI


Select and prepare equipment for routine/intermediate experiments and/or assays and collaborate to determine lab set up requirements.


Perform well-defined, repetitive, routine experiments, and apply established standards to prepare and analyze biological samples for research projects and/or experiments.


Collect experimental data, verify results and document findings.


Perform routine maintenance, calibration and troubleshooting on laboratory instruments.


Follow rules and procedural instructions when working within and maintaining a biohazardous research environment.


Attend and participate in lab meetings, actively participate in ensuring laboratory efficiency and safety, and communicate and coordinate effectively with the lab members and their research collaborators.


Observe details and maintain accurate records of experiments and results.


Gather and compile experimental results and assist in the preparation of data for reports and publications.


Recognize and investigate apparent reasons for obvious deviations in results obtained.

Non-Laboratory Research Tasks (20% of work time)

Document and analyze findings


Compile data, analyze and interpret experiment results or data.


Assist in basic analysis of research data by performing tasks such as assembly, compilation, and summary of statistical and other data.


Prepare scientific summaries, reports, slides, presentations, and scientific manuscripts.


Present research related technical information


Monitor and prioritize workflow to ensure accurate and timely reporting of results.


Maintain accurate records of procedures, samples, and inventories.

Administrative Duties (10% of work time)

Monitor and order supplies.


Routine organization and maintenance of laboratory space, supplies and equipment.


Maintain data documentation, physical and logistical storage of records, in accordance with hospital policies and relevant privacy regulations.


Assist with developing standard operating procedures, maintain and document facility sanitation, and ensure safety procedures are followed, documented, and maintained.


Inform the Facility Manager of issues that arise or need repair to maintain the required standards.

Performs cross functional and other duties as assigned and/or requested.

All staff are expected to carry out their assigned duties and responsibilities in a manner which prioritizes patient and employee safety, and confidentiality. Key accountabilities in this regard include:


Strict compliance with patient/employee confidentiality practices and policies.


Strict compliance with patient/employee safety practices and standards.


Appropriate identification, reporting and response to patient/employee confidentiality breaches in accordance with established policies and procedures.


Appropriate identification, reporting and response to patient/employee safety risks and incidents/events in accordance with established policies and procedures.

Qualifications:

College Diploma with 3 years related experience or Bachelors of Science with 1 year related experience OR demonstrable equivalent combination of specialized education and experience


Experience with cell culture work


Experience with microscopy. [ASSET]


Basic laboratory skills, experience with basic cellular, molecular, biochemical techniques including Western blotting, PCR, immunofluorescence.


Experience maintaining material and lab equipment.


Basic computer skills, particularly database, spreadsheet, graph software and word processing.


Software compatible with machinery, such as Image Lab (BioRad) or ImageStudio (Li-Cor imaging system).


[Basic] Excellent communication (verbal/written) and interpersonal skills are necessary.


[Basic] Ability to work independently with guidance from the supervisor and as part of a team.


[Basic] Excellent attention to detail and proven ability to learn new skills.


[Basic] Excellent organizational skills to manage projects in a timely manner and flexibility to adapt to changing workload.


[Basic] Exceptional record keeping skills.


[Basic] Ability to understand written and verbal directions.


[Basic] Professionalism.


[Basic] Self-motivation.


[Basic] Ability to prioritize and meet deadlines.





Unity Health Toronto is committed to creating an accessible and inclusive organization. We strive to provide a recruitment process that is barrier-free and in compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and the Ontario Human Rights Code. We understand that you may require an accommodation at any stage of the recruitment process. When you are contacted, please inform the Talent Acquisition Specialist and we will work with you to meet your accommodation needs. We want to emphasize that all accommodation requests are handled with the utmost confidentiality, respecting your privacy and dignity.