Lab Technician - Environmental & Ancient Genomics
Campbell River, Canada
Junior +2 · Full time
Posted 2 years ago
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The Tula Foundation’s Hakai Institute (www.hakai.org) is a scientific research institution conducting long-term scientific research at remote locations on the coastal margin of British
Columbia, Canada. We are currently looking for a dedicated Laboratory Technician to join our Genomics team at our lab facilities on Quadra Island, BC. The successful candidate will be part of
a multi-disciplinary group of scientists working to characterize contemporary and ancient diversity using molecular methods, with a focus on environmental DNA and ancient ecological
genomics.


The position includes benefits, and a competitive salary will be negotiated based on the experience of the successful candidate. At Tula, we encourage a flexible, proactive, and collegial
attitude that lends itself to a varied and diverse work environment. 


Responsibilities and Duties:

 

  • Work in sterile conditions in appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to extract DNA from environmental and ancient samples.
  • Follow precise lab protocols to avoid contemporary contamination of ancient and other sensitive samples.
  • Set-up polymerase chain reactions (PCRs) targeting various regions of interest.
  • DNA library preparation of eDNA and aDNA for Illumina based sequencing.
  • Adhere to laboratory safety policies and provide laboratory support, including cleaning instruments and keeping sample inventory organized.
  • Participate in weekly scientific meetings and read/present relevant literature.
  • Communicate, share lab space, and work collaboratively with other technicians, lab manager, and scientists working on various projects.
  • Various other duties as required (e.g. sample preparation for Sanger sequencing; QC of DNA libraries; new protocol optimization; report writing; etc.)

 

Qualifications and Skills:

 

  • MSc in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Environmental Genomics, Ancient Genomics, or a related discipline. Candidates with a BSc and relevant experience may be considered.
  • Experience conducting and troubleshooting DNA extraction, PCRs, DNA library preparation for high-throughput sequencing.
  • Strong molecular biology techniques, including working precisely with high reproducibility, pipetting, and dilutions, all while preventing contamination.
  • Excellent lab cleanliness habits, communication, and organization skills to keep track of hundreds of samples.
  • Experience in eDNA and/or metagenomics and/or ancient DNA, or other high-throughput sequencing applications.
  • Ability to work independently, but willingness to take direction from the lab manager and/or scientists when required.
  • Must be willing to relocate to work on Quadra Island, a small island with an established local community and accessible by ferry from Campbell River.
  • Proficient at MS Office, including Excel spreadsheets and databases for sample tracking.

 

Other Desired Assets:

 

  • Experience working with quantitative PCR (qPCR) and microplate readers.
  • Experience with data analysis and/or bioinformatics associated with eDNA and aDNA.
  • Experience with ancient sediment DNA (sedaDNA) for ecological reconstructions.

 

Benefits:

 

  • Competitive salary (to be negotiated based on qualifications and experience).
  • Competitive benefits package.
  • An exceptional working environment in one of the most beautiful places in the world.

 

Closing date for this position is Friday, August 26, 2022 or until the position is filled.
Tentative start date: January 2023 (negotiable).

 

Please submit your cover letter and resume to careers@tula.org

Tula Foundation
The Tula Foundation is an independent charitable foundation, rooted in British Columbia, but with global interests and outreach.
Year Founded:  2001
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