Research Scientist

This competition is open to all applicants however; internal candidates and applicants who were former employees of the University of Alberta will be given priority consideration before external candidates. Please log in to verify your internal candidate status.

This position has an initial appointment of 4 months.

Location - This role is in-person. Work primarily takes place at North Campus, Edmonton.

The Research Scientist will join a project related to liquid biopsies for cancer and novel imaging development and testing. This will involve development of novel assays to quantify levels of miRNA cancer biomarkers in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. It will involve wet lab work, computer programming for automation and data analysis, histopathology work, assisting with animal experiments, and assisting other members of the research team as needed.

• Designs individual experiments, data collection protocols and standards under the supervision of the Principal Investigator.
• Determines most appropriate methodology to meet identified research goals.
• Oversees/conducts data collection. Conducts advanced analysis of research data and results.
• Summarizes, analyzes and organizes data for publication. Participates in the writing of research papers, the preparation of presentations and/or other publications. May be considered as a co-author or presenter.
• May be responsible for the maintenance and efficient operation of the lab (e.g., specialized lab equipment maintenance and calibration).
• May guide technical staff or students in the lab.
• May advise on specialized technical procedures or equipment.
• Specific Research Tasks:
  • Perform experiments related to quantitative Polymerase Chain reaction and reverse transcription of miRNA biomarkers. Perform sonication and microbubble synthesis work.
  • Maintain cell cultures and perform spike-in experiments for liquid biopsy research.
  • Assist with histopathology, microscopy and other methods for tissue and cell analysis.
  • Write computer programs for data analysis and to program lab equipment.
  • Design and conduct experiments related to trapping of cells in blood samples.
  • Help with research collaborations and assist other team members as needed.

• MSc in Biomedical Engineering, Biology or related fields.
• Experience (ideally >2 years experience) with PCR, reverse transcription, cell culture, and ideally experience with statistical analysis, data analysis, and basic computer programming.
• Experience with microscopy, cell counting, pipetting, and aseptic technique is essential.
• Familiarity with Python, Matlab, R, or similar programming language (>2 years) will be an asset.
• Familiarity with robotic fluid handling systems and their programming will be an asset.
• Experience with ultrasonic technology, animal protocol development and animal handling and imaging with ultrasound will be an asset.

Application Instructions

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This position offers a salary range of $65,369 to $73,544. This position is not eligible for benefits.

The terms and conditions of this appointment are governed by Schedule E of the Collective Agreement between the Board of Governors of the University of Alberta and the Association of the Academic Staff of the University of Alberta.