Research Technician

This posting is to fill a current vacancy.

• Performs highly specialized and complex laboratory testing to respond to potential public health threats from emerging pathogens, protect public health and safety, and to support disease diagnosis, prevention and treatment and other organism of public health importance.
• Performs tests and provides input to principal investigators on highly specialized and complex laboratory testing and equipment.
• Under the direction of a principal investigator (e.g. molecular specialist) recommends changes to formalized procedures and new protocols for diagnostic laboratory testing of emerging pathogens. Assesses proposed laboratory procedures and reports on findings to a PI for consideration in the improvement of laboratory practices and protocols.
• Under the direction of a principal investigator participates in research and development as part of the process in establishing new protocols where none exists. Assesses proposed and existing laboratory procedures and reports on findings to a molecular specialist for further action. Prepares SOPs for research and drafts SOPs for methods being adapted in the clinical laboratory. Conducts, under direction, research projects pertaining to the establishment and implementation of new protocols and procedures, sophisticated analyses and methods evaluations for the improvement of laboratory procedures, protocols and surveillance.
• Provides technical support to medical laboratory technologists in performing new procedures that apply to new techniques and protocols which supports the implementation of more effective techniques and new test technology.
• Under direction conducts collaborative research projects which may involve provincial/national/ international organizations and universities, to evaluate and establish improved methodologies to enhance PHL testing service. Provides technical support on projects for medical laboratory technologists and laboratory assistants in the diagnostic laboratory, sharing their knowledge and expertise of new methodologies and practices.
• Maintains quality control for own research projects.
• Maintains the efficient operation of their assigned research laboratory area including maintenance of equipment and ordering of supplies.
• Perform evaluations and validation studies of assays and assist with the implementation of new tests or methods in the laboratory in consultation with the PI.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

• Knowledge of current complex testing theory and its application to the field of public health to perform tests and provide input to principal investigators on highly specialized and complex laboratory testing.
• Knowledge of complex testing methods in order to participate in research experiments and projects, to conduct complex molecular-based research and to make definitive decisions regarding results.
• Knowledge of PHL policies and procedures related to the provision of diagnostic clinical laboratory services to conduct complex testing and research tests and to make recommendations for changes to laboratory guidelines and procedures.
• Knowledge of Laboratory Information Systems or other database programs to facilitate data collection and analysis.
• Knowledge of Health and Safety legislation, protocols, practices and standards to safely conduct laboratory testing.
• Computer skills in such programs as Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc).
• Bioinformatics skills are an asset.

• Bachelor’s Degree from a university of recognized standing and experience in microbiology with specialized training in microbiology, molecular laboratory diagnostic methods, equipment, research and analysis testing to perform highly specialized and complex laboratory testing, support research, method development and surveillance.
• Experience in data integration & visualizations is preferred.
• Experience with statistical analysis and working in R (development, running, module install etc.) is an asset.

• Written communication skills to prepare sophisticated analysis and research test result summaries and prepare/revise research laboratory SOPs.
• Oral communication and interpersonal skills to discuss results with medical and scientific professionals regarding the development and implementation of new/revised protocol and procedures.
• Oral communication and interpersonal skills to discuss test results and interpretations with medical and scientific professionals, to promote the use of specialized practices and advanced testing technologies/equipment.
• Works collaboratively and maintains good working relationships with medical and scientific professionals such as the medical microbiologists, clinical microbiologists or molecular specialists regarding the development and implementation of new/revised laboratory protocols and procedures, testing practices, research projects, maintaining effective linkages to ensure the clients/stakeholder needs are met.

Please note: applications will be received no later than 11:59pm on the date preceding the closing date as indicated on the Job Requisition.

While we thank all applicants for their interest, only those selected to move forward in the recruitment process will be contacted.  Any information obtained during the course of recruitment will be used for employment recruitment purposes only, and not for any other purpose.

PHO is committed to ensuring equity in employment. Our goal is to create a diverse, inclusive workforce that reflects the communities we serve and to ensure our services and communications are accessible to all individuals. Any candidate who requires a job posting in an alternative format may email a request to HR_Inquiries@oahpp.ca. Once an applicant has been selected for an interview, they can inform PHO about any accommodations they may require at any stage of the interview process.