Research Technician

Dalhousie University View all jobs

Halifax, NS
$59,403 per year
Permanent
Full-time

1 day ago

This research project will employ a variety of cell-based and animal models to identify compounds with the potential to promote brain repair. Primary cultures of different brain cell subtypes will be used to assess the effects of putative neural restorative compounds on mitochondrial function. Compounds identified by these cell-based assays will be tested in animal models of Parkinson's disease, stroke and spinal cord injury. A variety of behavioural, histological and biochemical techniques will be employed to assess the safety and efficacy of these compounds.Reporting to the Principal Investigator, the Research Technician will prepare and maintain primary cell cultures derived from embryonic rodent brain tissues, as well performing surgeries on small laboratory animals and maintaining rodent colonies.
Key Responsibilities

Maintain and manage mouse and rat colonies, including breeding, weaning, genotyping, transgenic strain upkeep, and administration of tamoxifen and other treatments in compliance with approved animal care protocols.
Perform rodent anesthesia and surgical procedures, including spinal cord injury models, laminectomy, post-operative monitoring, injections, and recovery using approved aseptic and surgical techniques.
Conduct cell culture and molecular biology experiments, including primary murine CNS cell isolation, PCR and RT-qPCR, RNA/DNA extraction, data analysis, and optimization of experimental protocols.
Support laboratory operations through purchasing, budgeting, grant account administration, invoice processing, inventory control, and financial record-keeping using DalBuy, Excel, and related systems.
Ensure compliance with Environmental Health & Safety requirements by maintaining laboratory cleanliness, biosafety cabinets, fume hoods, chemical and safety records, and personnel certifications.
Prepare, maintain, and renew animal care protocols and approvals, including disease models, gavage procedures, and regulatory submissions, while demonstrating strong problem-solving skills, responsibility, and flexibility.

NoteDue to operational requirements, the successful applicant is required to work in-person on campus.Required Qualifications

Undergraduate degree in medical research-related field, with two to three years of research experience in pharmacology or a related field.
Expertise with molecular biological techniques such as western blotting, RNA extraction, and RT-qPCR.
Small rodent handling and surgical certification.
Transgenic colony maintenance.
Expertise using software programs such as Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and GraphPad PRISM.
Current WHMIS and Biosafety certifications.

Assets
Job CompetenciesThe successful candidate is expected to demonstrate proficiency in Dalhousie's and competencies, in particular:- Respect & Inclusion
- Adaptability
- Knowledge & Thinking Skills
- Communication
- Service
Additional InformationDalhousie University supports a healthy and balanced lifestyle. Our total compensation package includes a voluntary RRSP, health and dental plans, a wellness allowance, an employee and family assistance program and a tuition assistance program.Application ConsiderationNon-probationary bargaining unit employees (PSAC Local 86001) are given priority consideration. All other applications will be considered when there is no qualified candidate from the bargaining unit.We sincerely appreciate all applications and note that only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted directly by the hiring department or People and Culture.
Diversity StatementDalhousie University commits to achieving inclusive excellence through continually championing equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility. The university encourages applications from Indigenous Peoples of Turtle Island (especially Mi'kmaq), persons of Black/African descent (especially African Nova Scotians), and members of other racialized groups, persons with disabilities, women, persons identifying as members of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, and all candidates who would contribute to the diversity of our community. In accordance with our Employment Equity Policy, preference will be given in hiring processes to candidates who self-identify as members of one or more of the equity-deserving groups listed above. For more information, including details related to our Employment Equity Policy and Plan and definitions of equity-deserving groups please visitIf you require any support for the purpose of accommodation, such as technical aids or alternative arrangements, please let us know of these needs and how we can be of assistance. Dalhousie University is committed to ensuring all candidates have full, fair, and equitable participation in the hiring process. Our complete Accommodation Policy can be viewed .Posting Detail InformationNumber of Vacancies 1
Open Date 04/14/2026
Close Date 04/21/2026
Open Until Filled No
Special Instructions to Applicant
Quick Link for Direct Access to PostingSupplemental QuestionsRequired fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).Documents Needed to ApplyRequired Documents * Résumé / Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Optional Documents * Cover Letter

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