Description
The Faculty of Veterinary Medicine invites applications for a Laboratory Technician. This Full-time Fixed Term position is for approximately 12 months (based on length of grant funding), with the possibility of extension.
The Lab Technician will perform experimental tasks including mouse handling, monitoring, tissue collection, cell culture, western blot, PCR and sequencing, as well as analysis of results. They will assist the lab manager in operational tasks such as ordering lab supplies, updating inventories and cleaning and maintaining laboratory equipment. Research with prion-infected samples requires biosafety level 2+ laboratories. Working in this lab environment requires high focus, attention to detail an adherence to biosafety standards. This position will work both independently and in a team environment. Training will be provided.
The position reports to the Principal Investigator.
Summary of Key Responsibilities (job functions include but are not limited to):
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Mouse Model Support
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Handling and monitoring prion-infected mice
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Tissue harvest
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Tissue processing, potentially using immunohistochemistry/histology techniques
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Molecular Biology and Biochemical Methods
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Perform DNA/RNA extraction, cDNA synthesis, PCR/qPCR, prepare samples for sequencing
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Conduct Western blotting and protein expression analysis
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Performs cloning, expression and purification of recombinant proteins
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Production of lentiviral vectors and transduction of cell lines
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Perform in vitro prion amplification assays
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Cell Culture, Flow Cytometry and Imaging
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Cultivate and maintain stocks of mammalian cell lines
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Prepare samples for flow cytometry
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Prepare and image samples using confocal microscopy
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Lab Operations
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Assist lab manager in establishing and maintaining a well-organized lab
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Assist in ordering supplies
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Team Support
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Work closely as needed with postdoctoral researchers and graduate students
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Contribute to a respectful and collaborative lab culture
Establish positive relationships with peers and PIs of the Prion Research Unit
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Qualifications / Requirements:
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BSc degree in biochemistry, neuroscience, zoology or related field
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MSc degree is considered an asset
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Willingness to work with mouse models, ideally experience in mouse handling
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Prior experience in any of the above-mentioned methods
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Knowledge of the theory of technical procedures
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Openness to learn and adapt to new challenges and opportunities
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Excellent communication skills, record keeping and attention to detail
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
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Application Deadline: August 10, 2026
We would like to thank all applicants in advance for submitting their resumes. Please note, only those candidates chosen to continue on through the selection process will be contacted.
This position is part of the AUPE bargaining unit, and falls under the Technical Job Family, Phase 1.
For a listing of all management and staff opportunities at the University of Calgary, view our Management and Staff Careers website.
About the University of Calgary
UCalgary is Canada's entrepreneurial university, located in Canada's most enterprising city. It is a top research university and one of the highest-ranked universities of its age. Founded in 1966, its 36,000 students experience an innovative learning environment, made rich by research, hands-on experiences and entrepreneurial thinking. It is Canada's leader in the creation of start-ups. Start something today at the University of Calgary. For more information, visit ucalgary.ca.
The University of Calgary has launched an institution-wide Indigenous Strategy ii' taa'poh'to'p committing to creating a rich, vibrant, and culturally competent campus that welcomes and supports Indigenous Peoples, encourages Indigenous community partnerships, is inclusive of Indigenous perspectives in all that we do.
The university's commitment to the Indigenous Strategy is evident through the oversight of 18 Elders serving on the Circle of Advisors and the many unit-based circles working towards implementation of the strategy including the Faculty Advisory Circle and teams such as the Office of Indigenous Engagement, the Writing Symbols Lodge, and the Indigenous Research Support Team. Many Indigenous-based events and processes are impacting curriculum, programming and polices at the University of Calgary.
As an equitable and inclusive employer, the University of Calgary recognizes that a diverse staff/faculty benefits and enriches the work, learning and research experiences of the entire campus and greater community. We are committed to removing barriers that have been historically encountered by some people in our society. We strive to recruit individuals who will further enhance our diversity and will support their academic and professional success while they are here. In particular, we encourage members of the designated groups (women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, members of visible/racialized minorities, and diverse sexual orientation and gender identities) to apply. To ensure a fair and equitable assessment, we offer accommodation at any stage during the recruitment process to applicants with disabilities. Questions regarding [diversity] EDI at UCalgary can be sent to the Office of Institutional Commitments ([email protected]) and requests for accommodations can be sent to People & Culture ([email protected]).
Do you have most but not all the qualifications? Research show that women, racialized and visible minorities, and persons with disabilities are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At UCalgary we are committed to achieving equitable, diverse, inclusive and accessible employment practices and workplaces and encourage you to apply if you believe you are right for this role.
We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, however preference will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada.
