Genome Foundry Research Assistant, Microbial Genome Engineering
Classification: Research Assistant under the CARE union at Concordia University
Salary: $27.37/hr
Weekly Hours: 35
Duration: 1 year, renewable
Start Date: as of August 2022
Principal Investigator or Immediate Supervisor: Dr. Vincent Martin
Location: 7141 Sherbrooke St West, GE building, Montreal, QC, H4B 1R6
Unit: Centre for Applied Synthetic Biology at Concordia University
Scope
The Concordia Centre for Applied Synthetic Biology (CASB) is Canada’s first research centre focused on Synthetic Biology. The Centre houses the Genome Foundry for Synthetic Biology, a unique CFI- and NRC-funded technology platform that aspires to accelerate the design-build-test cycle of biological engineering (www.concordia.ca/casb).
The Centre has an urgent need for multiple Research Assistants with a background in applied synthetic biology. The Research Assistants are needed to support the microbial genome engineering activities of the Genome Foundry. These activities include but are not limited to high-throughput genome editing using the Genome Foundry’s automation and LIMS platforms.
The Research Assistants will report to the Microbial Suite Platform Coordinator, Nicholas Gold, and set priorities in consultation with the Centre Director, Dr. Vincent Martin, and Genome Foundry Platform Coordinators.
These are key positions of the Genome Foundry; the Research Assistants will need to display a high level of initiative, drive, and accountability.
Primary responsibilities
- Coordinate work and report to the Platform Coordinators to develop and streamline workflows.
- Perform validated day-to-day operations in support of platform research activities.
- Responsible for operating and maintaining automated instrumentation.
- Responsible for upkeep of inventory (consumables, DNA stocks, strain collection).
- Work in interdisciplinary teams and collaborate with scientists on several projects in parallel.
Qualifications
- Master’s or equivalent qualification in Biology or relevant field.
- Minimum of three years of relevant work experience or the equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Proficiency in current molecular biology techniques (e.g. CRISPR, Golden Gate, homologous recombination).
- Experience with yeast culturing and genetics is an asset.
- Experience with laboratory automation an asset.
- Experience with next-generation sequencing library preparation an asset.
- Experience with programing (Python or R) is an asset.
Application Instructions
The position is available immediately. Applicants should send (by e-mail) their curriculum vitae, the names and contact information of three referees, and cover letter to the address below. Only selected candidates will be contacted.
Audrey Morin
Research and Administrative Coordinator
Centre for Applied Synthetic Biology, GE120.23
Perks & Benefits
- Working in the Genome Foundry's cutting-edge facility
- Competitive salary
- On-site Health Services Clinic
- Pension plan
- Paid parental leave
- Flexible paid vacation
- Daily shuttle bus to and from downtown Montreal
- On-site gym and parking for a fee
- Learning resources
Equal opportunity
Concordia University hires on the basis of merit and is committed to employment equity. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply. In accordance with Canadian Immigration requirements, priority will be given to Canadian citizens and Permanent Residents.
