Salary Range: $43,758-49,227/year. The starting salary for this position would be determined with consideration of the successful candidate’s relevant education and experience, and would be in alignment with the provincial compensation reference plan. Salary will be prorated accordingly for part time roles.

 

Job Summary:

In accordance with the Mission, Vision and Values, and strategic directions of Provincial Health Services Authority patient safety is a priority and a responsibility shared by everyone at PHSA, and as such, the requirement to continuously improve quality and safety is inherent in all aspects of this position.These positions perform skilled routine laboratory work under supervision.  Incumbents are trained to specific research programs and methodologies of the hiring laboratory under the direct supervision of the Department Head, Principal Investigator, or designate.

 

BC Cancer Victoria’s Trev and Joyce Deeley Research Centre is a world-class cancer research facility specializing in cancer immunotherapy. We are seeking a Research Assistant I (RA1) to support the development of novel therapies designed to enhance anti-cancer immune responses. This is a two-year position with the possibility of extension based on funding availability and performance.

 

Under the supervision of the Staff Scientist, the successful applicant will play a key role in studies that support the advancement of cutting-edge immunotherapies toward clinical application. This role provides an opportunity to build a diverse technical skill set across in vivo and in vitro platforms while strengthening core research competencies. Responsibilities will include the maintenance of transgenic mouse breeding colonies, execution of in vitro assays, and the performance of general laboratory duties such as data management, record keeping, and routine lab maintenance. The position may also require occasional work outside of regular business hours, including weekends and evenings.

 

In this role, the RA1 will perform or assist with small animal handling, husbandry, and procedures; studies involving mouse tumour models; mammalian cell culture using primary and tumour-derived cell lines; protein-based assays such as acrylamide gel electrophoresis and western blotting; gene engineering and the generation of recombinant viruses; amplification, purification, and titration of lentiviruses and oncolytic viruses; and DNA isolation and genotyping. Additional duties may be assigned as needed to support ongoing research activities.

 

The ideal candidate will hold a Bachelor of Science degree in a relevant discipline such as Biology or Biochemistry, or an equivalent credential such as an Animal Health Technologist certificate; an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may also be considered. A minimum of one year of recent experience in a research laboratory and/or animal facility is required. Candidates should have knowledge of animal ethics and CCAC guidelines, demonstrated experience in accurate and detailed record-keeping, strong communication skills, and a track record of responsible decision-making. Success in this position requires the ability to prioritize effectively, adapt to changing priorities in a dynamic research environment, and accurately follow established SOPs.

 

Duties/Accountabilities:

• Under supervision, performs skilled routine laboratory work such as tissue culture preparation, specimen preparation and staining, applying biomarkers, chromatography, specialized use of microscope.
• Performs animal studies such as drug administration and treatment monitoring.
• Utilizes quantitative image analysis techniques to analyze histological and cytological specimens.
• Maintains cell lines.
• Performs computer data entry and prepares standard reports of study results.
• Participates in data analysis.
• Maintains and stores test materials and products.
• Maintains laboratory supplies and equipment.

 

Qualifications:

• A level of education, training, and experience equivalent to completion of Grade 12, supplemented by recognized university level science courses; plus one (1) year of recent related experience in a research laboratory.