Research Technician, Human Performance Lab (HPL) - Faculty of Kinesiology

The University of Calgary

17d ago

Applications are closed

Job
Full-time
Junior & Mid Level
Research & Development

Requirements

A graduate degree (MSc/PhD) with 1-3 years' experience in a relevant field such as kinesiology, biology, biomechanics, mechano-biology, or physiology
Advanced knowledge of research systems including:
Laser microscope techniques, including confocal and multiphoton excitation microscopy
Live cell (muscle) imaging using non-laser illumination and excitation approaches
Surgical skills for small-animal biomedical research
Knowledge and experience in Biosafety Level 2 management and compliance
Multi-scale muscle mechanics experiments
Knowledge and experience in biomedical signal collection, software control and processing are required
Ability to maintain and repair selected equipment systems of personal expertise
Knowledge and experience in one or more of the following areas will be an asset:
single muscle fibre and myofibril experimentation
pre-clinical models of musculoskeletal injury/disease, and/or
confocal and multi-photon excitation microscopy
Problem solving abilities and experience in scientific planning and experiment execution
Knowledge of the university and research/laboratory processes and policies, core university systems (Chematix, IRISS) and OHS requirements

Responsibilities

Support the Lab Manager, HPL with major equipment purchases, including vendor selection, installation, and end-user training
Make recommendations regarding the development of policies, processes, and standard operating procedures of core equipment
Keep up to date with current scientific literature and UCalgary policies and guidelines for lab safety, ethics, operations, funding, and any other policies that impact the operation of labs and the HPL in general
Work with the Lab Manager, HPL to complete onboarding of new trainees and faculty members, with a focus on lab safety requirements and OHS compliance
Provide laboratory instruction and technical supervision to users of core equipment and lab space
Act as a primary point of contact for users who are paying to use research facilities and equipment, provide training and supervision, and report usage to Lab Manager, HPL for billing purposes
Together with Lab Manager, HPL, complete annual inspections in core labs and ensure ongoing compliance with OHS requirements
As appropriate, participate as a representative on committees (ex. ISIC Building Users Committee, SRIC)
Use good judgement to identify and resolve day-to-day technical and operational issues
General laboratory duties may include equipment organization, maintenance and cleaning, inventory, and quality assurance
Ability to deal with multiple simultaneous deadlines throughout the year
Respectfully interact with research study participants, co-workers, supervisors, vendors, and members of the University community

FAQs

What is the main function of the Research Technician position in the Human Performance Lab?

The main function of the Research Technician position is to support research across the Faculty of Kinesiology by providing administrative support, operating core facilities and shared lab equipment, and assisting in research areas such as musculoskeletal biomechanics, and muscle properties and mechanisms of contraction.

What qualifications are required for this position?

The position requires a graduate degree (MSc/PhD) with 1-3 years of experience in relevant fields such as kinesiology, biology, biomechanics, mechano-biology, or physiology.

Are there specific technical skills that are necessary for this role?

Yes, advanced knowledge of research systems is required, including laser microscope techniques, live cell imaging, small-animal surgical skills, biosafety level management, multi-scale muscle mechanics experiments, and biomedical signal collection.

Will the Research Technician be involved in training others?

Yes, the Research Technician will provide laboratory instruction and technical supervision to users of core equipment and lab space, as well as support the onboarding of new trainees and faculty members.

What type of work schedule can be expected for this role?

The position may require flexible work hours to accommodate the complexity of the work, support research programs, and cover emergency alerts during evenings and weekends due to equipment failures.

Is experience with specific research methodologies preferred for applicants?

Yes, knowledge and experience in areas such as single muscle fiber experimentation, pre-clinical models of musculoskeletal injury/disease, and confocal and multi-photon excitation microscopy are considered assets.

What type of support is provided for major equipment purchases?

The Research Technician will support the Lab Manager with major equipment purchases, including vendor selection, installation, and training of end-users on the equipment.

How does the university promote diversity and inclusion within its hiring process?

The University of Calgary is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion and encourages applications from individuals who enhance diversity, including those from designated groups. Accommodation is also offered at any stage of the recruitment process for applicants with disabilities.

What is the application deadline for this position?

The application deadline for the Research Technician position is October 09, 2024.

Where can I find more information about the University of Calgary and its opportunities?

More information about the University of Calgary, including management and staff opportunities, can be found on the Management and Staff Careers website at ucalgary.ca.

The University of Calgary

Canada's entrepreneurial university, A top research university

Education

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1966

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Mission & Purpose

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.’