Research Associate at the Steif Lab, Vancouver

Offer Description The expected pay (or pay range) for this position is between $70,000-90,000 per annum.

Job Summary We are developing and applying new single‑cell omics methods for tracking tumour clonal trajectories, characterising cellular states, and assessing interactions with the microenvironment in patient tissues. Our researchers use the latest single‑cell technologies to rapidly identify genes and pathways involved in cancer development andprogression. This position will contribute to multiple ongoing research projects, working within the Single Cell Genomics Platform located across two separate research facilities in Vancouver, BC, Canada. The successful candidate will provide technical expertise, contribute to protocol optimisationand technology development, and carry out high‑throughput data generation.

Work Performed

Plan and perform experiments utilizing established complex procedures and/or techniques, including the use of in‑house liquid‑handling robotic platforms and commercial single‑cell platforms.

Work with the PIs and team members to support development of new wet‑lab protocols and design rigorous technical experiments.

Optimize, troubleshoot and carry out sensitive experiments, including processing of primary patient biospecimens.

Develop and implement standard operating protocols (SOPs).

Process diverse samples, including primary tissues, for dissociated and spatial single‑cell omics profiling.

Prepare libraries and run next‑generation sequencing platforms.

Visualise and analyse samples using microscopy and flow cytometry.

Maintain detailed laboratory records, including using a LIMS system to track and record sample and experimental data.

Provide technical expertise and support in tissue culture, molecular biology, and biochemistry.

Assist in general lab maintenance such as reagent preparation, ordering, receiving and tracking inventory for lab supplies.

Contribute to analysis and interpretation of data resulting from high‑throughput experiments.

Stay up‑to‑date on the latest scientific developments and new commercial platforms/protocols, informing the PIs of new opportunities and directions.

Provide regular updates to Dr. Steif and collaborating PIs to problem‑solve and plan research directions.

Present regular updates at lab/team meetings and scientific meetings.

Write reports and contribute to writing ethics applications, academic manuscripts, and grant proposals.

Carry out any other related duties as assigned or required in keeping with the qualifications and requirements of this academic level.

Provide technical training, supervision and mentorship to trainees and staff.

Consequence of Error/Judgement The work is complex and requires a high level of training, tasks are assigned and the incumbent exercises a considerable amount of responsibility, initiative and judgement in determining their work schedule to achieve those tasks. Errors may result in the permanent loss of irreplaceable tissue samples, loss of thousands of dollars of material and/or damage to equipment. Incorrect decisions or actions may damage the reputation of the laboratory, lead to a loss of credibility in this field, and be financially costly. Non‑compliance with biosafety and chemical safety regulations may also result in the closure of the facility or loss of grant funding.

Supervision Received The successful applicant will work under minimal supervision. From time to time, Principal Investigators or their Laboratory Research and Operations Manager(s) may provide specific instructions on unusual problems or new project directions. This position will report to the Principal Investigators.

Supervision Given Depending on experience and expertise, the successful applicant may be required to assist in the training and supervision of graduate students/trainees, other staff, or external collaborators; including providing instruction on the use of lab equipment and procedures, and will help others troubleshoot experiments in their area of expertise.

Qualifications

A PhD in molecular biology, genetics or related fields, or a PhD and post‑doctoral academic or industry work experience in the aforementioned areas.

Past experience with single‑cell genomics, liquid‑handling robotics, cell isolation and/or next‑generation sequencing library preparation is strongly preferred.

Working hands‑on experience in tissue handling and tissue dissociation methods is an asset.

Ability to perform and troubleshoot a wide variety of molecular and cellular biology techniques, such as cell culture, microscopy, RNA/DNA isolation, quantitative PCR, flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, protein isolation, and western blotting.

Demonstrated understanding of experimental design and assay optimisation.

A record of publication in peer‑reviewed journals.

Past experience with basic bioinformatic analysis in Python or R is considered an asset.

Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative, multi‑disciplinary team.

Willingness to respect diverse perspectives, including perspectives in conflict with one’s own.

Demonstrated commitment to enhancing one’s own awareness, knowledge, and skills related to equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Leadership qualities, strong interpersonal skills, communication skills (oral and written) and mentorship/teaching ability.

Excellent organisational skills, conscientiousness and attention to detail.

Ability to multi‑task, prioritise and handle diverse project assignments concurrently.

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Equity and diversity are essential to academic excellence. An open and diverse community fosters the inclusion of voices that have been underrepresented or discouraged. We encourage applications from members of groups that have been marginalized on any grounds enumerated under the B.C. Human Rights Code, including sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, racialisation, disability, political belief, religion, marital or family status, age, and/or status as a First Nation, Métis, Inuit or Indigenous person. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.

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