Duties and Responsibilities:
The Lee and Hsiao Labs at Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, Canada are seeking a technician with background in microbiology, extensive experience in molecular biology and DNA sequencing. Specifically, we are looking for proficiency in nucleic acid purification and quality control, including techniques such as qPCR, Nanodrop, DNA agarose electrophoresis, fluorescence quantitation (Qubit), and Bioanalyzer/TapeStation. Previous experience with sequencing library preparation and ONT sequencing is considered an asset.

The primary work location will be Simon Fraser University Burnaby Campus located in Greater Vancouver. Simon Fraser University is surrounded by wonderful greenspace on the Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area approximately 5 km from the edge of the city of Vancouver (and a three-hour drive north of Seattle, Washington, in the U.S.). SFU has been consistently ranked as Canada’s top comprehensive University (Maclean’s ranking no. 1 for 13 of the last 14 years).

Duties:
● Responsibilities include the items listed below, but are not limited to:
● Culturing diverse aerobic and anaerobic bacteria
● Extracting genomic DNA from bacterial cultures, environmental and/or clinical samples
● Performing quality control on extracted nucleic acid samples (Nanodrop, DNA agarose gels, fluorescent DNA quantitation, qPCR, etc.)
● Performing Oxford Nanopore Technologies library preparation and sequencing
● Interpreting, sequence QC (using developed pipeline) and releasing the sequencing results
● Maintain meticulous sample providence records and adhere to best laboratory quality control practices
● Assisting with the evaluation and implementation of new technology
● Attending group meetings and presenting work routinely.


Contact:
Please send your cover letter, CV and names of two referees to Dr. William Hsiao and Dr. Amy Lee (hsiaolab-jobs@sfu.ca) with the subject line: Technician - Microbiology and NGS. We thank all applicants and regret that only those selected for an interview may be contacted further.

Please note that a cover letter describing your relevant experience (minimal 2 years of on-job or graduate study research experience) and how you meet the job requirement is mandatory. Applications without a cover letter will NOT be considered)

We hire on the basis of merit and are committed to employment equity. All qualified persons are encouraged to apply. We especially welcome applications from members of visible minority groups, women, aboriginal persons, persons with disabilities, persons of minority sexual orientations and gender identities, and others with the skills and knowledge to engage productively with diverse communities. In accordance with immigration requirements, preference will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada. We are committed to providing employees with a positive working environment supporting growth and flexibility.


Qualifications
● Nucleic acid purification and sequencing workflow
○ Experience with DNA/RNA extraction from various sample types (soil, water, tissue, etc) and especially from pure bacterial cultures (both Gram positive and negative organisms, as well as potential anaerobic and spore-forming organisms.)
○ Nucleic acid quality control
■ qPCR (and standard PCR)
■ Nanodrop
■ DNA agarose electrophoresis
■ Fluorescent quantitation (plate or Qubit)
■ Bioanalyzer/TapeStation/LabChip
○ Proficient with sample preparation (ONT preferentially, or Illumina)
■ Whole genome sequencing
■ Amplicon
■ Metagenomics
○ Experience in next generation sequencing
■ Preferentially ONT
■ Illumina or PacBio
● Strong organizational abilities paired with excellent interpersonal and verbal/written communication skills. Ability to maintain an excellent notebook. Any prior experience with a LIMS system is a bonus.
● Detailed oriented, with an ability to multitask, adapt to shifting priorities and display effective problem-solving capabilities at the bench and new technology adaptation.
● Proven track record of thriving in team environments while also excelling at independent work.
● Self-driven with a strong sense of motivation and accountability and ability to be onsite daily.