Salary Range: $49,445-$64,897/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:
The cancer research laboratory of Dr. Shoukat Dedhar, situated within the world-class BC Cancer Research Institute in Vancouver, BC, is seeking a highly motivated Research Animal Technician to join their research team. Dr. Dedhar is an established principal investigator. His team conducts cutting-edge research aimed at understanding the role of the tumour microenvironment in cancer progression and metastasis, as well as developing effective, targeted therapeutics for the treatment of cancer.
DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES
• Perform daily monitoring and care of laboratory animals (mice), including health monitoring.
• Administer anti-cancer therapies to mice by oral gavage, intraperitoneal injection and intravenous injection
• Perform tumour cell inoculation, tumor volume measurements, drug administration, supportive care, blood and tissue collection, surgical procedures and post-operative care
• Apply imaging technologies to non-invasively detect tumours using bioluminescence and fluorescence labeling modalities
• Maintain accurate animal data and laboratory records; prepare laboratory reports
• Draft and update Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
• Carry out routine maintenance of mammalian cell cultures and preparation of cells for inoculation
• Perform laboratory techniques using established protocols (e.g. tissue processing and sectioning, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, molecular and cell biology) and record experimental data in the form of images, tables, graphs and charts using standard Microsoft Office applications
• Performing other related duties as assigned
REQUIRED EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS
• A level of education, training or experience equivalent to graduation from a recognized program in Animal Health or Veterinary Technology or a Bachelor’s program in an appropriate discipline plus (2) years of recent related experience in a research laboratory. CALAS certification (e.g. RLAT) is an asset.
• A working knowledge of the CCAC guidelines and compassion and sensitivity for animals
• Experience with small animal (mouse) disease models, especially cancer models
• Good knowledge and performance of aseptic technique
• Experience in the use and handling of hazardous materials such as biological agents, radioactive substances and/or cytotoxic drugs is desirable
• Molecular biology and laboratory skills, including, but not limited to tissue processing and immunohistochemistry, immunoblotting, cloning, RNA and DNA purification and PCR
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing
• Good working knowledge of computer software applications, including word processing, spreadsheets and visual presentations
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to interact positively, collaboratively and productively with other team members are essential
• The successful candidate must be well-organized, conscientious, understand the importance of detail in observing and recording data, and be able to multi-task and prioritize duties effectively
