Technical Officer

Discover the possible

Anything is possible at the National Research Council (NRC). As Canada’s leading research and technology organization, our world-renowned research pushes the boundaries of science and engineering to make the impossible, possible. Every day we explore new ideas through innovative research and help companies discover possibilities that impact Canada’s future and the world.

At the NRC, you’ll also discover new possibilities. Our supportive workplace fosters a culture of creativity, welcoming fresh perspectives and innovation at all levels. We value teamwork. You’ll collaborate across multiple fields and with the brightest minds to find creative solutions. Most importantly, you’ll discover what’s possible within you as you grow, make valuable contributions and progress in your professional journey. From ground-breaking discoveries to a life-changing career, discover your possible at the NRC.

The Role

We are looking for a Technical Officer to support our Human Health Therapeutics (HHT) Research Centre. The selected candidate would be someone who shares our core values of Integrity, Excellence, Respect and Creativity.
Become part of a team that works at the interface of academia and industry in the exciting field of biomarker translational research. Help us and our industrial partners move therapeutics from the bench into patients by providing technical support to researchers and project leaders.

The Technical Officer will have a broad based knowledge of principles of ‘omics, molecular biology, liquid biopsies, cell cultures, cell-based assays and imaging analysis, cell biology and immunology. The incumbent will primarily be responsible for sample processing, assay setup and troubleshooting of different experimental methods for biomarker discovery and assay development to support pre-clinical and clinical studies, and biomanufacturing optimizations. The candidate will also be responsible for supporting the  liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry based metabolomics platform through continuous improvement activities such as development of sample and standard preparations, separation and detection methods of biomolecules. In time, the technical officer will also be called upon to help train other colleagues, assisting in administrative and support roles such as purchasing of reagents/supplies, preparing scientific reports, assisting in the development of new analytical assays, attending internal and external meetings, writing standard/developmental operating procedures (SOPs/DOPs), documenting experiments in laboratory notebooks, and presenting data at internal meetings.

At NRC we work in a dynamic matrix environment. As part of the organization, you will need to interact and communicate effectively with your direct supervisor, team members, and project leads.

The ideal candidate would have two to three years of continuing hands-on experience in a lab-environment and fundamental theoretical knowledge with a passion for working in a team to support high impact challenging projects.

This analytical technical officer position would appeal to someone who is interested in analytical technology within the realm of biological research. Someone who is flexible and has a passion for working hands-on in a high-tech laboratory setting, learning new techniques, helping to find solutions to challenging instrumentation and scientific problems, and interacting with other scientists with diverse backgrounds.

If you are that person, then this is the perfect role for you!

Screening Criteria

Applicants must demonstrate within the content of their application that they meet the following screening criteria in order to be given further consideration as candidates:

Education

B.Sc. or M.Sc. in Life Sciences

For information on certificates and diplomas issued abroad, please see Degree equivalency

Experience

• Experience in analysis of clinical samples for target and biomarker expression using conventional and molecular techniques.
• Experience in a variety of sample handling and preparations including tissue, plasma and cell culture materials for metabolomics and proteomics analysis.
• Experience in cell culture and molecular analysis of cells and tissues.
• Experience in protein and gene expression methodologies such as qPCR, RNASeq, Western blotting, ELISA , etc..
• Mass spectrometry experience will be an asset.
• Experience and knowledge in programming, such as Python or R, is an asset

Condition of Employment

Reliability Status

Language Requirements

English 

Information on language requirements and self-assessment tests

Assessment Criteria

Candidates will be assessed on the basis of the following criteria:

Technical Competencies

• Knowledge of the fundamental and practical aspects of mass spectrometry.
• Knowledge of the fundamental and practical aspects of small molecule and peptide chromatography.
• Knowledge of the fundamentals and practical aspects of biological sample preparation techniques.
• Ability to develop, troubleshoot and optimise analytical methods.
• Ability to understand and use specialized domain-specific software as well as general office products.
• Ability to analyze data, interpret results, and identify and troubleshoot problems.
• Ability to prepare scientific reports and maintain proper records in a lab environment.
• Solid knowledge of basic and safe laboratory practices

Behavioural Competencies

Competency Profile(s)

For this position, the NRC will evaluate candidates using the following competency profile(s): Research Technician/Technologist

View all competency profiles

Compensation

Salary under review 

From $73,744 to $94,839 per annum. 

NRC employees enjoy a wide-range of competitive benefits including a robust pension plan, comprehensive health and dental coverage, disability and life insurance, office closure at the end of December, and additional supports to enhance your well-being throughout your career and beyond.

Notes

• Relocation assistance will be determined in accordance with the NRC's directives.
• A pre-qualified list may be established for similar positions for a one year period.
• Preference will be given to Canadian Citizens and Permanent Residents of Canada. Please include citizenship information in your application.
• The incumbent must adhere to safe workplace practices at all times.
• We thank all those who apply, however only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.