Research Associate

About the role

Canadian Blood Services is looking for a Regular full-time Research Associate to engage in basic and translational research in the lab of Dr. James C. Zimring.  Dr. Zimring has run a productive research lab for over 20 years with over 200 peer reviewed publications in high impact journals and also has a strong dedication to careful attention for the career goals of all with whom he works.  Both candidates pursuing a career in the described job and also those who may have the ambition of ultimately launching their own independent research careers are encouraged to apply. In addition to full engagement with the University of British Columbia, the position also entails the opportunity to engage with the dynamic Research and Development team in the Innovation division of Canadian Blood Services. This integration provides a unique opportunity for direct translation of research into the operations and mission of Canadian Blood Services that is nationally responsible for a secure system of life essentials for transfusion, transplantation, and cellular therapies.  

In this role, you will have the highest-level of responsibility in the laboratory, work with minimal supervision, and be involved in many aspects of Research and Development projects by designing and conducting experiments, processing and interpreting data, and troubleshooting highly skilled technical tasks. You are considered an expert in your field and through independent means are expected to keep abreast of related technical and conceptual advances including actively reading the literature and attending seminars and lectures as a fully functioning member of the specific scientific community. You will also contribute significantly to project direction, participate in the writing of grants and manuscripts, and assist in staff or student supervision. There is the opportunity to have a formal teaching affiliation with the local university, if desired; however, laboratory work is always the priority.

Formula for success

• Leveraging your demonstrated knowledge and expertise, you will design and conduct experiments including collection, interpretation, analysis, organization, storage and presentation of data, in compliance with all regulations and restrictions. Activities include, but are not limited to:
  • Utilize a variety of laboratory equipment, techniques and procedures and participate in the development and validation of new, improved or existing laboratory technologies.
  • Read pertinent literature to assist in identifying research objectives, strategies and methods.
  • Keep detailed and accessible records of all experimental conditions procedures and results.
  • Oversee the organization, management, and maintenance of key laboratory resources (e.g. cryopreserved cells, mouse strains, and vivarium management).
  • Follow all professional ethics with regards to data collection, data integrity, data privacy, data interpretation, data reporting, and restrictions of consent attached to human samples and approved ethics protocol for animal work.
  • You may have the opportunity to submit abstracts to academic meetings and presents posters and/or oral abstracts at meetings.
  • Participate in weekly lab meetings including presenting data and respectfully discussing data of others.
  • Attend and/or participate in departmental seminars, series, and journal clubs on a voluntary basis as appropriate for academic engagement but with a keen eye on time management with laboratory experiments as the priority.
  • Assist the laboratory director in document writing manuscripts for publication, and preparation of applications for research grant funding.
  • Assist in staff supervision; Provide technical and safety instruction, assist assigned staff/students in experimental design, data analysis and troubleshooting, help mentor staff and students with regards to their own professional goals and aspirations, assist the Supervisor with related staff Performance Reviews. 

Desired education and skills

• Doctoral degree with specialization in an appropriate area from a recognized academic institution is required.
• At least 2 years of postdoctoral training or 5 years of relevant experience are generally required.
• A background in immunology, red cell biology, and/or redox biology will be considered an asset.
• Ability to learn new systems, approaches, and scientific paradigms.
• A strong background and proficiency in flow cytometry will be considered an asset.
• Proficient computer skills.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• A functional understanding of statistics as applied to small biological experiments.

What we offer you

• 4 weeks' vacation
• Annual performance award up to 8%
• Comprehensive group health, dental and vision benefits for you and your family
• Defined benefit pension plan
• Employee discounts, wellness program, professional resources

What you can expect

• This role will work onsite at the University of British Columbia.
• The opportunity to attend conferences, team meetings, or present on behalf of Canadian Blood Services (both nationally or internationally) may occur but is neither guaranteed nor is it required.