Research Associate, Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science

Position Overview

The Department of Biological Sciences in the Faculty of Science invites applications for a Research Associate. This Full-time Fixed Term position is for approximately 1 year (based on length of grant funding), with the possibility of extension.

Reporting to the Principal Investigator (PI), the primary purpose of this position is to work under the supervision of the PI on a project aimed at optimizing the de novo production of thebaine in yeast through a combination of (i) novel gene discovery, (ii) substitution with empirically superior gene variants, (iii) semi-rational evolution of recalcitrant enzymes, and (iv) protein fusions to mimic native pathway architecture. Flexibility in working hours is desired as evening and weekend work may be required depending on the nature of the research underway.

Position Description

Summary of Key Responsibilities (job functions include but are not limited to):

Technical

• Design and construct yeast expression vectors
• Design and construct recombinant yeast strains
• Conduct the molecular, biochemical and chemical analysis of recombinant yeast strains
• Work both collaboratively and independently, as defined by the Principal Investigator, on laboratory experiments, data analysis and data interpretation as needed
• Conduct on-line literature searches as necessary to support scientific research activities
• Interact with other members of the team and provide technical support and offer advice on technical lab issues as needed

Reporting & Publications

• Maintain lab notebook by tracking results and findings in accurate and timely manner
• Provide up-to-date information on past, present and future laboratory experiments as required by the sponsor of the contracted research
• Participate in lab meetings on an as required basis reporting on progress made, issues arising and results obtained

Safety and Environment

• Ensure the safe and reliable operation, and proper use of all laboratory equipment
• Ensure that supervisor is kept informed of activities, findings, and progress of work

Qualifications / Requirements:

• B.Sc. in biology or related area required
• M.Sc./Ph.D. degree in molecular biology and/or biochemistry preferred
• Previous research experience in molecular biology and/or biochemistry
• Demonstrated experience in record-keeping and ability to accurately report on research findings
• Strong analytical, organizational, time management and problem solving skills
• Strong communication skills (written and oral) and team work capabilities, while at the same time being able to work independently may be required
• Willingness to perform any other duties associated with the research project, of an occasional nature, which may be assigned by Research Supervisor
• Experience in using the suite of Microsoft Office programs (or equivalent)
• Experience in literature searching, including libraries, web sites and other media

Application Deadline: This position will remain open until filled; however, applicants will be reviewed as they are received.

We would like to thank all applicants in advance for submitting their resumes. Please note, only those candidates chosen to continue on through the selection process will be contacted.

Additional Information

This position is part of the AUPE bargaining unit, and falls under the Technical Job Family, Phase 1. 

To find out more about management and staff opportunities at the University of Calgary and all we have to offer, view our Management and Staff Careers website. For more information about the Faculty of Science visit Careers in the Faculty of Science.

About the University of Calgary

The University of Calgary is Canada’s leading next-generation university – a living, growing and youthful institution that embraces change and opportunity with a can-do attitude. Located in the nation’s most enterprising city, the university is making tremendous progress on its Eyes High journey to become one of Canada’s top five research universities, grounded in innovative learning and teaching and fully integrated with the community it both serves and leads. Ranked as the top young university in Canada and North America, the University of Calgary inspires and supports discovery, creativity and innovation across all disciplines. For more information, visit ucalgary.ca.

The University of Calgary believes that a respectful workplace, equal opportunity and building a diverse workforce contribute to the richness of the environment for teaching, learning and research, and provide faculty, staff, students and the public with a university that reflects the society it serves. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, however preference will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada.