Genome Foundry Research Assistant
Classification: Research Assistant under the CARE union at Concordia University
Salary: $27.03/hour to $46.79/hour
Weekly Hours: 35 to 40
Duration: 3 months, renewable
Start Date: July 1, 2025
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 a Research Assistant with a background in applied synthetic biology. The Research Assistant is needed to support the 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 Assistant will report to the Platform Coordinators, Jing Cheng and Kevin Jaquet, and set priorities in consultation with the Centre co-Directors, Dr. Vincent Martin and Dr. Steve Shih, the Senior Advisor in Business Development & Partnerships Engagement, Nicholas Gold, and the Genome Foundry Platform Coordinators.
This is a key position in the Genome Foundry; the Research Assistant will need to display a high level of initiative, drive, and accountability.
Primary responsibilities
- To coordinate work and report to the Platform Coordinators to develop and streamline workflows.
- To perform validated day-to-day operations in support of platform research activities.
- To troubleshoot, optimize, or develop new automation-assisted protocols as needed.
- To be responsible for operating and maintaining automated instrumentation.
- To be responsible for upkeep of inventory (consumables, DNA stocks, strain collection).
- To work in interdisciplinary teams and collaborate with scientists on several projects in parallel.
Qualifications
- Master’s or equivalent qualification in Biology or relevant field.
- 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
Manager, Research Operations
Centre for Applied Synthetic Biology, GE120.23
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.