Molecular Microbiology Research Lab Coordinator

Primary Purpose: The Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) Molecular Microbiology Research Laboratory Coordinator will coordinate, maintain and provide educational support for instrument use and application of molecular biology techniques in the WCVM multi-user molecular microbiology research laboratory.

Nature of Work:

The coordinator will be responsible for coordinating, maintenance and proper use of instruments and equipment located in the core Molecular Microbiology Research Laboratory for the WCVM. The coordinator will provide training and educational support to researchers and trainees employing bacterial and viral isolation and propagation, tissue culture, DNA/RNA isolation and manipulation, qPCR, immunoassays, genomics and related techniques in their research, meeting the needs of both experienced and inexperienced users. The coordinator will also be able to develop budgets for long-term equipment needs as well as coordinate supply/billing of core research supplies and services for the WCVM.

The Manager will be a people-oriented, organized and highly motivated individual with excellent communication skills who will thrive in the dynamic research environment at the WCVM Molecular Microbiology Research Laboratory.

This position reports to the WCVM Associate Dean Research & Graduate Studies and will work with the Laboratory’s Faculty Advisor in coordinating day to day operations of the facility.

Typical Duties or Accountabilities:

• Provide education via in-lab instruction and advice for researchers and their personnel in microbiology, molecular and cell biology techniques
• Coordinate the day-to-day functions of the WCVM molecular microbiology research laboratory, including various research projects, deadlines, budgeting for the lab itself and advising on budgets for project development
• Exercise decision making and problem solving to ensure priorities and deadlines are met
• Ensure appropriate use and responsible organization of space, and safe operation of equipment
• Procure equipment and supplies as required; liaise with vendors
• Manage the lab budget
• Develop correspondence, reports, and written materials as required; maintain documentation for researchers and audit compliance
• Represent the molecular microbiology research laboratory on the WCVM Local Safety Committee
• Ensure compliance with BSL-2 standards
• Build and nurture positive and collaborative relationships with people at all levels throughout the campus community and with relevant external organizations; play an active role in continuous improvement to processes

Education: Minimum BSc or related technical diploma, preferably with a graduate degree. Current experience with microbiology, molecular biological and tissue-culture techniques; ability to communicate effectively in written and spoken English. 

Biosafety, Laboratory Safety, Transportation of Dangerous Goods, WHMIS certifications 

Licenses: None required

Experience: Minimum of three years of relevant experience in a BSL-2 laboratory would be an asset. An equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered. Knowledge of and experience with the development of research budgets, managing expenses and adapting to changing financial circumstances is essential.

Essential skills:  

•  Advanced skills in molecular biology and microbiology  
• Ability to supervise, coach, mentor and teach laboratory techniques, and use of associated equipment
• Laboratory standard operating procedure development
• Advanced listening skills
• Advanced interpersonal skills
• Advanced communication skills
• Analysis and synthesis of scientific literature
• Effective organizational and record-keeping skills
• Ability to meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Self-directed and readily able to work independently and as part of a team

Department: Western College of Veterinary Medicine 
Status: Permanent

Employment Group: CUPE 1975

Shift: Mon – Fri 8:00am to 4:30pm

Full Time Equivalent (FTE): 1.0

Salary: The salary range, based on 1.0 FTE, is $33.86 – 44.39 per hour. The starting salary will be commensurate with education and experience.

Salary Family (if applicable): Applied Scientific Services

Salary Phase/Band: Phase 6

Posted Date: 1/10/2024

Closing Date: 2/14/2024 at 6:00 pm CST
Number of Openings: 1
Work Location: On Campus

The successful applicant will be required to provide the following current verification(s) where ‘Yes’ is indicated below. Further information is available at: https://careers.usask.ca/tips-for-applying.php

Criminal Record Check: Yes
Driver’s License and Abstract Check: Not Applicable
Education/Credential Verification: Yes
Vulnerable Sector Check: Not Applicable