Research Assistant in Kuzmin Lab

Classification: Research Assistant under the CARE union at Concordia University

Salary: $23.43/hr

Weekly Hours: 35

Duration: 1 year, renewable

Start Date: Immediately

Principal Investigator or Immediate Supervisor: Dr. Elena Kuzmin

Location: 7141 Sherbrooke St West, GE building, Montreal, QC, H4B 1R6

Unit: Department of Biology at Concordia University

The Kuzmin lab at Concordia University is inviting applications for a Lab Manager/Research Assistant position. Under the direction of the Principal Investigator, the candidate is going to be responsible for generating mammalian mutant cell lines using CRISPR-Cas9, will perform vector construction and lenti-virus preparation, will perform routine tissue culture and cell line maintenance. The candidate will assist with other ongoing projects in the lab, such as CRISPR screens in mammalian cells and genetic screens in the budding yeast, maintenance of mutant libraries, as well as stock solution preparation. The candidate will also contribute to the methodological development, training and performance of cellular and molecular biology techniques in the field of cancer and yeast functional genomics and synthetic biology and will provide training in basic techniques for new laboratory members. The selected candidate will be in charge of laboratory management, ordering as well as other administrative tasks. The selected candidate will conduct experiments, compile research results, assist lab members in the analysis of results and the preparation of manuscripts for publication. The candidate will be exposed to a wide variety of technologies in functional genomics and synthetic biology in yeast and human cells, including human mutant cell line construction using CRISPR, CRISPR genetic screens, PCR, molecular cloning, proliferation assays, microscopy, western blotting, immunoprecipitation, DNA/RNA purification. Computer programming expertise in Python, R and/or Matlab is an asset but not required.

Applicants must have a BSc/MSc in Molecular Genetics, Molecular Biology, Functional Genomics, Synthetic Biology or related life science fields. Strong technical expertise in molecular biology and a demonstration of publications directly related to yeast or cancer functional genomics or synthetic biology of research is highly preferred. Laboratory management experience is an asset.

This position is based on 35 hours/week 9:00 am –5:00 pm – Monday to Friday and is available immediately. Depending upon the experimental workflow, incumbent may be required to work on statutory holidays, evenings and weekends at short notice. The position is available in the winter 2024 for 1 year with annual renewal.

Application Instructions

Applicants should send (by e-mail: casb@concordia.ca) their curriculum vitae, a concise statement of research interests and the names of three referees to the address below. Only those candidates selected to interview will be contacted. Applications will be accepted until deadline March 1, 2024. Candidates will be interviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Elena Kuzmin, Assistant Professor

Department of Biology, Concordia University

Perks & Benefits  

The Kuzmin lab is part of the Concordia Centre for Applied Synthetic Biology (CASB). The 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.

Additonal Perks

·   Competitive salary

·   Health benefits from Concordia University

·   On-site Health Services Clinic

·   Pension plan

·   Flexible paid vacation

·   Paid parental leave

·   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.