Research Technician in Molecular Biology Lab (Cancer Immunotherapy)
About the role
The Arnie Charbonneau Cancer Institute in the Cummings School of Medicine invites applications for a Research Technician. This Full-time Fixed Term position is for approximately 12 months (based on length of grant funding), with the possibility of extension.
The Arnie Charbonneau Cancer Institute, in partnership with the University of Calgary and Alberta Health Services, brings together scientists and clinicians to advance cancer research at the biological, clinical, and population health levels. The lab focuses on developing novel immune cell based therapies, with an emphasis on molecular biology approaches and animal models of cancer immunotherapy.
Reporting to the Principal Investigator.
Summary of Key Responsibilities (job functions include but are not limited to):
Molecular Biology Experiments
- Perform routine molecular biology techniques (PCR, DNA/RNA extraction, Western blotting, flow cytometry sample prep)
- Perform molecular cloning and build a cloning strategy independently
- Prepare, label, and maintain reagents and buffers
- Assist with optimizing experimental protocols under supervision
Cell Culture Work
- Maintain mammalian cell lines under sterile conditions
- Perform transfections and viability assays as required
- Monitor cultures and record growth/experimental results
Animal Work
- Handle and care for mouse models according to approved protocols
- Assist with procedures such as injections, tissue collection, and monitoring of animal health
- Maintain accurate records of animal use and ensure compliance with ethical guidelines
Data Collection and Documentation
- Keep detailed, accurate, and up-to-date experimental notes
- Compile results and assist with basic data analysis (e.g., graphing, summarizing findings)
- Contribute to lab reports and internal project updates
Laboratory Operations
- Maintain a clean and organized work area
- Monitor lab supplies, prepare stock solutions, and assist with inventory management
- Calibrate and care for commonly used lab equipment
Safety and Compliance
- Follow biosafety, chemical safety, and animal care guidelines
- Report safety concerns or equipment malfunctions promptly
- Maintain WHMIS and institutional training requirements up to date
Collaboration and Support
- Work closely with other lab members to support shared research goals
- Provide assistance with experiments as directed by the PI or senior staff
- Participate in regular lab meetings and contribute to group discussions
Qualifications / Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in Biology, Immunology, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, or a related field. (Master's degree is preferred)
- Hands-on laboratory experience in molecular biology techniques
- Experience with molecular cloning experience including conventional restriction enzyme cloning
- Experience with Gibson assembly, Golden Gate assembly, and In-Fusion cloning techniques is preferred
- Experience working with laboratory animals (mice preferred) is required; certification in animal handling is an asset
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail in conducting experiments and record-keeping
- Ability to follow established protocols, work independently, and collaborate effectively in a team environment
- Good communication skills and willingness to learn new techniques
- Knowledge of laboratory safety protocols and WHMIS certification (or willingness to obtain)
Application Deadline: September 22, 2025
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.
This position is part of the AUPE bargaining unit, and falls under the Technical Job Family, Phase 1.
For a listing of all management and staff opportunities at the University of Calgary, view our [Management and Staff Careers website](https://careers.ucalgary.ca/search/jobs?q=&ns_job_type_page=management- and- staff&cf%5Bjobfamily%5D%5B%5D=ASA&cf%5Bjobfamily%5D%5B%5D=FIN&cf%5Bjobfamily%5D%5B%5D=HRL&cf%5Bjobfamily%5D%5B%5D=HRS&cf%5Bjobfamily%5D%5B%5D=INT&cf%5Bjobfamily%5D%5B%5D=LBS&cf%5Bjobfamily%5D%5B%5D=MGT&cf%5Bjobfamily%5D%5B%5D=PRO&cf%5Bjobfamily%5D%5B%5D=RSS&cf%5Bjobfamily%5D%5B%5D=SKT&cf%5Bjobfamily%5D%5B%5D=SLT&cf%5Bjobfamily%5D%5B%5D=STU&cf%5Bjobfamily%5D%5B%5D=TEC&ns_faculty_unit_page=).
About the University of Calgary
UCalgary is Canada's entrepreneurial university, located in Canada's most enterprising city. It is a top research university and one of the highest- ranked universities of its age. Founded in 1966, its 36,000 students experience an innovative learning environment, made rich by research, hands-on experiences and entrepreneurial thinking. It is [Canada's leader in the creation of start-ups](https://ucalgary.ca/news/ucalgary-top-startup-creator- amongst-research-institutions-canada). Start something today at the University of Calgary. For more information, visit ucalgary.ca.
The University of Calgary has launched an institution-wide Indigenous Strategy committing to creating a rich, vibrant, and culturally competent campus that welcomes and supports Indigenous Peoples, encourages Indigenous community partnerships, is inclusive of Indigenous perspectives in all that we do.
As an equitable and inclusive employer, the University of Calgary recognizes that a diverse staff/faculty benefits and enriches the work, learning and research experiences of the entire campus and greater community. We are committed to removing barriers that have been historically encountered by some people in our society. We strive to recruit individuals who will further enhance our diversity and will support their academic and professional success while they are here. In particular, we encourage members of the designated groups (women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, members of visible/racialized minorities, and diverse sexual orientation and gender identities) to apply. To ensure a fair and equitable assessment, we offer accommodation at any stage during the recruitment process to applicants with disabilities. Questions regarding [diversity] EDI at UCalgary can be sent to the [Office of Institutional Commitments](https://www.ucalgary.ca/provost/strategic-initiatives/office- institutional-commitments) (equity@ucalgary.ca ) and requests for accommodations can be sent to Human Resources (hrhire@ucalgary.ca ).
_Do you have most but not all the qualifications? Research show that women, racialized and visible minorities, and persons with disabilities are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At UCalgary we are committed to achieving equitable, diverse, inclusive and accessible employment practices and workplaces and encourage you to apply if you believe you are right for this role. _
_We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, however preference will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada.
About University of Calgary
The University of Calgary is a leading Canadian university located in the nation's most enterprising city. The university has a clear strategic direction to become one of Canada's top five research universities, where research and innovative teaching go hand in hand, and where we fully engage the communities we both serve and lead. This strategy is called Eyes High, inspired by the university's Gaelic motto, which translates as 'I will lift up my eyes.’
Research Technician in Molecular Biology Lab (Cancer Immunotherapy)
About the role
The Arnie Charbonneau Cancer Institute in the Cummings School of Medicine invites applications for a Research Technician. This Full-time Fixed Term position is for approximately 12 months (based on length of grant funding), with the possibility of extension.
The Arnie Charbonneau Cancer Institute, in partnership with the University of Calgary and Alberta Health Services, brings together scientists and clinicians to advance cancer research at the biological, clinical, and population health levels. The lab focuses on developing novel immune cell based therapies, with an emphasis on molecular biology approaches and animal models of cancer immunotherapy.
Reporting to the Principal Investigator.
Summary of Key Responsibilities (job functions include but are not limited to):
Molecular Biology Experiments
- Perform routine molecular biology techniques (PCR, DNA/RNA extraction, Western blotting, flow cytometry sample prep)
- Perform molecular cloning and build a cloning strategy independently
- Prepare, label, and maintain reagents and buffers
- Assist with optimizing experimental protocols under supervision
Cell Culture Work
- Maintain mammalian cell lines under sterile conditions
- Perform transfections and viability assays as required
- Monitor cultures and record growth/experimental results
Animal Work
- Handle and care for mouse models according to approved protocols
- Assist with procedures such as injections, tissue collection, and monitoring of animal health
- Maintain accurate records of animal use and ensure compliance with ethical guidelines
Data Collection and Documentation
- Keep detailed, accurate, and up-to-date experimental notes
- Compile results and assist with basic data analysis (e.g., graphing, summarizing findings)
- Contribute to lab reports and internal project updates
Laboratory Operations
- Maintain a clean and organized work area
- Monitor lab supplies, prepare stock solutions, and assist with inventory management
- Calibrate and care for commonly used lab equipment
Safety and Compliance
- Follow biosafety, chemical safety, and animal care guidelines
- Report safety concerns or equipment malfunctions promptly
- Maintain WHMIS and institutional training requirements up to date
Collaboration and Support
- Work closely with other lab members to support shared research goals
- Provide assistance with experiments as directed by the PI or senior staff
- Participate in regular lab meetings and contribute to group discussions
Qualifications / Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in Biology, Immunology, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, or a related field. (Master's degree is preferred)
- Hands-on laboratory experience in molecular biology techniques
- Experience with molecular cloning experience including conventional restriction enzyme cloning
- Experience with Gibson assembly, Golden Gate assembly, and In-Fusion cloning techniques is preferred
- Experience working with laboratory animals (mice preferred) is required; certification in animal handling is an asset
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail in conducting experiments and record-keeping
- Ability to follow established protocols, work independently, and collaborate effectively in a team environment
- Good communication skills and willingness to learn new techniques
- Knowledge of laboratory safety protocols and WHMIS certification (or willingness to obtain)
Application Deadline: September 22, 2025
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.
This position is part of the AUPE bargaining unit, and falls under the Technical Job Family, Phase 1.
For a listing of all management and staff opportunities at the University of Calgary, view our [Management and Staff Careers website](https://careers.ucalgary.ca/search/jobs?q=&ns_job_type_page=management- and- staff&cf%5Bjobfamily%5D%5B%5D=ASA&cf%5Bjobfamily%5D%5B%5D=FIN&cf%5Bjobfamily%5D%5B%5D=HRL&cf%5Bjobfamily%5D%5B%5D=HRS&cf%5Bjobfamily%5D%5B%5D=INT&cf%5Bjobfamily%5D%5B%5D=LBS&cf%5Bjobfamily%5D%5B%5D=MGT&cf%5Bjobfamily%5D%5B%5D=PRO&cf%5Bjobfamily%5D%5B%5D=RSS&cf%5Bjobfamily%5D%5B%5D=SKT&cf%5Bjobfamily%5D%5B%5D=SLT&cf%5Bjobfamily%5D%5B%5D=STU&cf%5Bjobfamily%5D%5B%5D=TEC&ns_faculty_unit_page=).
About the University of Calgary
UCalgary is Canada's entrepreneurial university, located in Canada's most enterprising city. It is a top research university and one of the highest- ranked universities of its age. Founded in 1966, its 36,000 students experience an innovative learning environment, made rich by research, hands-on experiences and entrepreneurial thinking. It is [Canada's leader in the creation of start-ups](https://ucalgary.ca/news/ucalgary-top-startup-creator- amongst-research-institutions-canada). Start something today at the University of Calgary. For more information, visit ucalgary.ca.
The University of Calgary has launched an institution-wide Indigenous Strategy committing to creating a rich, vibrant, and culturally competent campus that welcomes and supports Indigenous Peoples, encourages Indigenous community partnerships, is inclusive of Indigenous perspectives in all that we do.
As an equitable and inclusive employer, the University of Calgary recognizes that a diverse staff/faculty benefits and enriches the work, learning and research experiences of the entire campus and greater community. We are committed to removing barriers that have been historically encountered by some people in our society. We strive to recruit individuals who will further enhance our diversity and will support their academic and professional success while they are here. In particular, we encourage members of the designated groups (women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, members of visible/racialized minorities, and diverse sexual orientation and gender identities) to apply. To ensure a fair and equitable assessment, we offer accommodation at any stage during the recruitment process to applicants with disabilities. Questions regarding [diversity] EDI at UCalgary can be sent to the [Office of Institutional Commitments](https://www.ucalgary.ca/provost/strategic-initiatives/office- institutional-commitments) (equity@ucalgary.ca ) and requests for accommodations can be sent to Human Resources (hrhire@ucalgary.ca ).
_Do you have most but not all the qualifications? Research show that women, racialized and visible minorities, and persons with disabilities are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At UCalgary we are committed to achieving equitable, diverse, inclusive and accessible employment practices and workplaces and encourage you to apply if you believe you are right for this role. _
_We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, however preference will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada.
About University of Calgary
The University of Calgary is a leading Canadian university located in the nation's most enterprising city. The university has a clear strategic direction to become one of Canada's top five research universities, where research and innovative teaching go hand in hand, and where we fully engage the communities we both serve and lead. This strategy is called Eyes High, inspired by the university's Gaelic motto, which translates as 'I will lift up my eyes.’