Research Assistant

Job summary

The research assistant will perform plant sample collection, preparation, and chemical analysis within the laboratory. They are also responsible for managing research logistics, data entry, and supervising undergraduate research assistants.

Job details

Staff - Union Job Category CUPE 116 Job Profile CUPE 116 Salaried - Research Assistant /Technician 1 Job Title research assistant Department Biotechnology & Chemistry of Wood Fibres Research | Department of Wood Science | Faculty of Forestry and Environmental Stewardship Compensation Range $4,399.00 - $4,615.00 CAD Monthly Posting End Date October 13, 2026 Note: Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on the Posting End Date. Job End Date January 31, 2027 At 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 Summary The cell wall chemistry research assistant (RA) will participate in sample preparation, sample extraction, sample analysis, and research logistics. Organizational Status This position is in the new Plant Cell Wall Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Laboratory, led by Dr. Shawn Mansfield in the Department of Wood Science. The RA will support research by Dr. Mansfield and his post-docs and graduate students; they may be assisted by undergraduates on some projects. Work Performed Core responsibilities: Collect samples sites throughout BC Prepare plant samples (dry and grind samples) Extract samples with organic solvents, using Soxhlet extractor and Extreva extractor Undertake routine chemical analysis of plant samples (Klason analysis; thioacidolysis) following detailed instructions. Any unexpected results will be referred to the researcher. Enter data, format data for analyses and prepare data summaries Consequence of Error/Judgement The RA will have access to Dr. Mansfield’s post-docs/grad students to help make decisions in the lab or via phone or Slack messaging. However, they will need to make decisions about safe conditions to complete laboratory work based on standard chemical laboratory safety plans. Supervision Received Dr. Mansfield and his postdocs will provide primary supervision in the lab. Training will be provided for the skill set needed for project. Updates will be provided on request or as needed as projects evolve. Supervision Given For repetitive tasks (e.g., plant sample grinding and extractions) the RA will supervise undergraduate research assistants. Minimum Qualifications -High school graduation and a minimum one year of related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience. - 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 inclusion -An understanding to plant cell wall chemistry and structure -Knowledge of tree chemistry analytical techniques Preferred Qualifications -Experience conducting plant biomass extraction with organic solvents -Previous work measuring plant chemistry using the Klason and thioacidolysis techniques -Motivated to work in a diverse team including highly motivated plant cell wall biochemists and molecular biologists.

What you’ll do

The research assistant will perform plant sample collection, preparation, and chemical analysis within the laboratory. They are also responsible for managing research logistics, data entry, and supervising undergraduate research assistants.

Requirements

Candidates must have a high school diploma and at least one year of related experience. A strong understanding of plant cell wall chemistry and tree chemistry analytical techniques is required.

Listed skills

• Data entry · Preferred
• Data analysis · Preferred
• Supervision · Preferred

Other relevant skills

Identified from the job description. Confirm important requirements above.

• Sample preparation
• Sample extraction
• Chemical analysis
• Soxhlet extraction
• Extreva extraction
• Klason analysis
• Thioacidolysis
• Data entry
• Data analysis
• Laboratory safety
• Plant cell wall chemistry
• Biochemistry
• Molecular biology
• Research logistics
• Supervision
• Employment Equity
• Laboratory Safety
• Sample Preparation
• Slack (Software)
• Self-Motivation
• Research
• Analytical Chemistry
• Analytical Techniques
• Chemistry
• Biotechnology
• Molecular Biology
• Forestry
• Grinding
• Innovation
• Sample Analysis
• Soxhlet Extractor
• Undergraduate Research

Job areas

• Science & Research
• Education
• Environmental & Sustainability
• Research Assistant
• Research Laboratory Technician
• Medical and Pathology Laboratory Technicians
• Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technicians
• Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians

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