Staff - Non UnionJob Category Non Union Technicians and Research AssistantsJob Profile Non Union Salaried - Research Assistant /Technician 4Job Title Research Assistant / Technician 4Department Cullis Laboratory | Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology | Faculty of MedicineCompensation Range $5,220.98 - $6,124.46 CAD MonthlyPosting End Date September 4, 2025Note: Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on the Posting End Date.Job End Date September 21, 2026At UBC, we believe that attracting and sustaining a diverse workforce is key to the successful pursuit of excellence in research, innovation, and learning for all faculty, staff and students. Our commitment to employment equity helps achieve inclusion and fairness, brings rich diversity to UBC as a workplace, and creates the necessary conditions for a rewarding career.Job SummaryThe Cullis and Russell Labs at the University of British Columbia (Vancouver Point Grey Campus) are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Research Assistant/Technician (Level 4) to conduct vivo experiments in mice related to infectious disease research and cancer biology. For this reason, the candidate must be comfortable handling live mice and prior experience in these skills is an asset.The candidate may receive additional specific animal procedures training, as necessary.The Cullis Lab specializes in lipid nanoparticle technology, exploring its applications in drug delivery, gene therapy, cancer, aging, and immunology. The Russell lab focuses on infectious diseases, aiming to develop innovative treatments for serious bacterial infections causing pneumonia and sepsis. The successful candidate will work collaboratively across both research groups, reporting directly to a senior research associate or the respective principal investigators.Organizational StatusThe Research Assistant will report directly to the Principal Investigator(s), Dr. Pieter Cullis and Dr. Jim Russell, with supervision provided by senior research associates working in the respective groups.Work PerformedDesign, optimize and perform complex animal techniques, including surgical procedures (both simple and advanced), sample collection and development of new methodsOversee and ensure the accuracy and completeness of experimental records and documentation (e.g., animal monitoring sheets, health reports, cage cards) and write detailed reports and summary documentsPerform and supervise euthanasia and blood collection procedures in live mice (saphenous bleeds) and tissue collection at necropsyLead, conduct and troubleshoot routine in vitro assays, media preparation, and tissue culture activities, providing guidance and training to junior staff as neededEnsure compliance with lab safety and animal welfare guidelines, coordinating and enforcing laboratory safety protocolsCarries out any other related duties as required in keeping with the qualifications and requirements of positions in this classification.Consequence of Error/Judgement Failure to maintain a high standard of work with consistent communication between team members and the supervisors will result in delays and affect the quality of research output, which may impact the working conditions, reputation, and funding for the research group and UBC.Supervision Received It is expected that the successful candidate will be able to work under minimum supervision, receiving specific instructions only on unusual problems or on matters which depart significantly from established policies and procedures.Supervision Given May have supervisory responsibilities for a small group of employees and/or students at lower classifications and may have input into staff selection and performance evaluation.Minimum Qualifications Completion of a university degree in a relevant discipline or technical program and a minimum four years of related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Some positions may require a graduate degree.- Willingness to respect diverse perspectives, including perspectives in conflict with one’s own- Demonstrates a commitment to enhancing one’s own awareness, knowledge, and skills related to equity, diversity, and inclusionPreferred QualificationsDiploma or BSc in a relevant scientific disciplineAt least 4 years of experience in in vivo research and rodent handlingProficiency in animal handling techniques, including restraint and standard manipulations (e.g., SC, IV, IP, IM, PO) is an assetCompletion of UBC animal care training and lab rodent course (or equivalent)Familiarity with animal infection models and/or cancer models preferredExperience in routine laboratory practices, including in vitro assay preparation and basic data analysis, is desirableCompetence in tissue culture techniques is beneficialStrong written and verbal communication skillsFamiliarity with standard word processing and spreadsheet softwareAbility to manage tasks effectively within specific timelines; flexibility required for animal experiments and monitoring outside normal working hoursCommitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, with openness to diverse perspectives and continuous personal and professional development in these areas
