Research Technician III (Automation Specialist)

Ontario Institute for Cancer Research

  • Toronto, ON
  • Permanent
  • Full-time
  • Just now
INTERNAL APPLICATIONS ONLYAbout OICROICR is Ontario’s cancer research institute. We bring together people from across the province and around the world to improve the lives of everyone affected by cancer. We take on the biggest challenges in cancer research and deliver real-world solutions to find cancer earlier and treat it more effectively. We are committed to helping people living with cancer, as well as future generations, live longer and healthier lives.Launched in December 2005, OICR is an independent institute funded by the Government of Ontario through the Ministry of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security.Position DetailsPosition: Research Technician III (Automation Specialist)Location: MaRS Centre, TorontoDepartment: Genomics, TGLReports To: Manager, Genomics ProductionSalary: Commensurate with level of experience; total compensation includes a competitive benefits plan, plus a defined benefit pension plan (HOOPP)Hours: 35 hours/weekJob Type: On-siteStatus: Full-time, PermanentPosition SummaryThe Ontario Institute for Cancer Research (OICR) is seeking two Research Technician III (Automation Specialists) to apply advanced technical knowledge and skills to run the most recent technologies in the field of human genetics, mainly the Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) platform. Reporting to Production Manager, Genomics, the Automation Specialists will play a critical role in the coordination, execution, and continuous optimization and development of automated workflows that drive the front-end of our sequencing pipeline. This position requires advanced technical expertise in operating, programming, and maintaining a range of sophisticated liquid handling platforms and integrated laboratory systems. The successful candidates will be responsible for ensuring consistency, reliability, and scalability of automated processes used in the preparation of genomic libraries.Position Responsibilities
  • Operate and maintain automated liquid handling platforms (Hamilton Star, Sciclone) for clinical and research genomics workflows.
  • Plan and schedule library preparation, QC, dilutions, and aliquoting using automation.
  • Troubleshoot and perform root-cause analysis for instrumentation and software issues.
  • Develop, modify, and validate automation methods and protocols in compliance with clinical standards (e.g., CLIA, CAP, ISO 15189).
  • Train lab staff on SOPs and the use of automated platforms.
  • Manage equipment maintenance, documentation, and inventory of consumables and reagents.
  • Evaluate new technologies, upgrades, and industry best practices to improve lab efficiency.
  • Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
Position Requirements
  • Completion of a Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Genetics or other Life Sciences disciplines, or recognized equivalent required.
  • Experience working in a genomics, molecular biology, or clinical diagnostics lab.
  • Hands-on experience with automated liquid handling systems (Hamilton Star, Sciclone, EpMotion, Tecan, or similar).
  • Background in method development, optimization, or troubleshooting automation protocols.
  • Proficiency in automation scripting/programming (e.g., VENUS, Python or similar).
  • Strong understanding of NGS workflows, library prep, and QC processes.
  • Experience with laboratory quality standards (e.g., CLIA, CAP, ISO 15189).
  • Ability to perform routine maintenance and troubleshoot both hardware and software.
  • Knowledge of LIMS and laboratory data management practices.
For more information about OICR, please visit the website at .
To learn more about working at OICR, visit our .POSTED DATE: September 4, 2025CLOSING DATE: September 9, 2025 at 5:00 p.m.OICR is committed to fostering a climate of equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility. This commitment is central to, and mutually supportive of, our research excellence mandate. We welcome and respect the diversity of all members of our community and we support an inclusive culture for all. We welcome all applicants, and encourage applications from racialized persons, Indigenous Peoples, women, persons with disabilities, LGBTQ2S persons, and others who may contribute to furthering a diversity of ideas within our community. OICR is committed to fair assessment of a candidate’s abilities, and consideration for diversity of thought, method, and experience. Providing an accessible workplace and recruitment process is important to us, as described in our Accessibility Plan ( ). Should you require accommodation during any stage in the recruitment process, please complete the form at the bottom of page . Information received related to accommodation will be handled confidentially.Resume Format: If you elect to apply, please click on the “Apply for this Job” button. You will be required to enter contact details, and to attach your resume to your application. Please attach your resume as a .pdf or .doc file.The Ontario Institute for Cancer Research thanks all applicants. However, only those under consideration will be contacted.

Ontario Institute for Cancer Research