Research Assistant – Bioinformatics Specialist
AMURE
Position Title :
Research Assistant
Hiring Unit :
McGill University and Genome Quebec Innovation Centre
Hourly Wage :
$19.75/hour
Work Schedule:
4 days a week (Monday to Thursday) from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Hours of Work:
30 hours
Duration :
1 year
Reporting To:
Elin Grundberg
Date of Posting :
September 5th, 2014
Deadline to Apply :
September 12th, 2014
Job Summary
We are seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant (RA) to join the laboratory of Dr. Elin
Grundberg at the McGill University and Genome Quebec Innovation Centre. The primary focus of
the team is applying genomics and epigenomics approaches for mapping underlying factors of
asthma using next-generation sequencing technologies. By working closely with collaborators in
France, the RA will process large numbers of DNA samples (purification and preparation). The RA
should also be able to work autonomously and independently on the projects and objectives set by
the PI, and be able to adapt to changes in experimental methodologies/design and unanticipated
deadlines. An RA with previous M.Sc. experience possesses not only the technical abilities, but also
the intellectual skills to assess any changes that may arise. Since the project deals with collection,
handling and processing of different types of human tissues, the experience and independence
gained from a M.Sc. is essential. The RA will be working closely with other RAs, graduate students
and Post-Doctoral Fellows and will be expected to provide critical input as to how these large-scale
experiments should be carried out or optimized. Prior knowledge and experience with handling
human tissue samples is extremely important for understanding the technique as well as for
troubleshooting.
Summary of responsibilities:
1. Apply a variety of standard molecular biology techniques as well as more advanced, M.Sc.
level techniques and protocols related to next-generation technologies such as library
preparation for Illumina HiSeq sequencing, and targeted sequence capture.
2. Aid in general lab organization, including ordering equipment and supplies, re-stocking
common consumable reagents and solutions, and maintaining lab databases and inventories
3. Uses a variety of equipment such as, Agilent BioAnalyzer and NanoDrop machines for
assessing RNA quality and quantity, ABI 7900 instrument for real-time PCR, pH meters,
spectrophotometers, centrifuges, electrophoresis equipment, balances, pipettors, robotics
systems, and computers.
Education/Experience

MSc and Research experience in biochemistry and molecular biology
Other Qualifying Skills & Abilities




Molecular biology techniques including DNA cloning, PCR, qualitative and quantitative RTPCR, cell culture
Experience with large-scale nucleic acid handling and purification
Ability to work independently, yet be a team player, in a multi-disciplinary environment
Excellent verbal and written communication skills in both English and French
HOW TO APPLY
Please submit your application via e-mail at the following address:
recruit.genome@mcgill.ca
McGill University is committed to equity in employment and diversity. It welcomes applications from
indigenous peoples, visible minorities, ethnic minorities, persons with disabilities, women, persons of
minority sexual orientations and gender identities, and others who may contribute to further diversification.