Canada’s Michael Smith Genome Sciences Centre (GSC)

Today’s Research. Tomorrow’s Medicine.

The GSC is a department of the BC Cancer Research Institute and a high-throughput genome sequencing facility. We are leaders in genomics, proteomics and bioinformatics in pursuit of novel treatment strategies for cancers and other diseases.

Among the world’s first genome centres to be established within a cancer clinic, for more than two decades our scientists and innovators have been designing and deploying cutting-edge technologies to benefit health and advance clinical research.

Among the GSC’s most significant accomplishments are the first publication to demonstrate the use of whole-genome sequencing to inform cancer treatment planning, the first published sequence of the SARS coronavirus genome and major contributions to the first physical map of the human genome as part of the Human Genome Project.

By joining the GSC you will become part of an exceptional and diverse team of scientists, clinicians, experts and professionals operating at the leading edge of clinical research. We look for people who share our core values—science, timeliness, respect—to join us on our mission to use genome science for the betterment of health and society.

Summary

Job Reference No. GST_P00634_HSA165430_Library Core_2024_05_09

Canada’s Michael Smith Genome Sciences Centre (GSC) is a state-of-the-art, large scale, high throughput, clinically accredited genomics and bioinformatics facility. If you have a diploma in Biotechnology, Molecular Biology or Biochemistry and experience working in a research lab, join our team as a Genome Science Technologist!  

At the GSC, Genome Science Technologists perform various molecular biology techniques and procedures using laboratory robots. This includes biospecimen procurement, sample handling and quality control, diverse library construction and high throughput sequencing methods.

The position is anchored within a team of exceptional scientists, computational biologists and programmers, which collaborate directly on the development of robust, cost efficient, and competitive processes for new targeted and precision medicine analytical pipelines. By working within the GSCs Biospecimen Core, you will develop close relationships with world-renowned specialists in bioinformatics, cancer researchers and medical scientists; have access to one of the most robust computational and next generation genome sequencing technology facilities in Canada, all while living in one of the most beautiful, diverse and eclectic cities in the world. Your work will help to save lives and contribute to a world free from the fear of cancer.

This is an opportunity to work with highly motivated colleagues in a science-oriented, creative and dynamic environment. We offer a competitive salary, excellent benefits and significant career development opportunities.

This is a temporary full-time renewable union position.

Apply now!

Duties and Responsibilities

  1. Following controlled laboratory procedures, performs tasks such as biospecimen receipt and quality assessments, laboratory information management system (LIMS) data entry, RNA and DNA purification, cDNA synthesis, genome and transcriptome next generation library construction and sequencing.
  2. Works within a regulated quality management system including maintaining training records, document control with active corrective and preventative actions (CA/PA).
  3. Data entry using laboratory software and basic reporting of results to supervisors.
  4. Prepares solutions following standard operating procedures.
  5. Maintains general lab and equipment cleanliness.  Recognizes and reports malfunctions in equipment.
  6. Processes patient samples according to established procedures for clinical sequencing diagnostic tests.
  7. Performs other related duties as required.

Qualifications

Education, Training and Experience

Graduation from a recognized diploma program in Biotechnology, Molecular Biology or Biochemistry 

- OR -

An equivalent combination of education, training and experience acceptable to the Genome Sciences Centre Group Leaders and Production Coordinators.

Skills and Abilities

  • Knowledge of molecular biology techniques, particularly DNA and RNA preparation and manipulation, and a good understanding of genomics technologies.
  • Demonstrated ability to perform detailed procedures reproducibly and accurately.
  • Demonstrated interpersonal skills including the ability to work effectively with others in a team environment.
  • Demonstrated ability to efficiently organize work assignments and establish priorities.
  • Basic knowledge of and ability to operate personal computers.

Benefits:

Every PHSA employee enables the best possible patient care for our patients and their families. Whether you are providing direct care, conducting research, or making it possible for others to do their work, you impact the lives of British Columbians today and in the future. That’s why we’re focused on your care too – offering health, wellness, development programs to support you – at work and at home.

  • Join one of BC’s largest employers with province-wide programs, services and operations – offering vast opportunities for growth, development, and recognition programs that honour the commitment and contribution of all employees.
  • Access to professional development opportunities through our in-house training programs, including +2,000 courses, such as our San’yas Indigenous Cultural Safety Training course, or Core Linx for Leadership roles.
  • Enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, which includes statutory benefits - Canada Pension Plan, Employment Insurance and WorkSafe BC plus the BC Cancer group benefits plan which includes medical & dental extended health, and group life insurance coverage, and psychological health & safety programs and holistic wellness resources.
  • Annual statutory holidays (13) with generous vacation entitlement and accruement.
  • Access to WorkPerks, a premium discount program offering a wide range of local and national discounts on electronics, entertainment, dining, travel, wellness, apparel, and more.

Job Type: 

Temporary Full-Time, 18 month leave replacement, 7.5 hrs. per day

100% onsite

Wage:

Starting at $36.59 to $45.55 per hour for the 6th year

The salary for this position would be determined with consideration of the successful candidate’s relevant education and experience, and would be in alignment with the provincial compensation reference plan and the HSA Collective Agreement.

Apply

Please submit a detailed cover letter and resume to bcgscjobs@bcgsc.ca, using Job Reference No. GST_P00634_HSA165430_Library Core_2024_05_09 in the subject line of your email.

As this is a union position, you will also have to apply either as an internal or external applicant through http://www.phsa.ca/careers using the posting reference 165430.

While we value and review all applications, please note that due to the volume of submissions only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. This posting will remain online until the position is filled.

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority.

Important!

As per the current Public Health Order, full vaccination against COVID-19 is a condition of employment with PHSA as of October 26, 2021.

We believe that equity, diversity and inclusivity are essential for the advancement of human knowledge and science.

We welcome all applicants and provide all employees with equal opportunity for advancement, regardless of race, colour, ancestry, place of origin, political belief, religion, marital status, family status, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, conviction of a criminal or summary conviction offence unrelated to their employment.

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