Research Technician in Molecular Biology and Genetics

**Description** The **Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology** in the **Cumming School of Medicine** invites applications for a **Research Technician**. This Full-time Fixed Term position is for approximately 12 months (based on length of grant funding), with the possibility of extension. The Research Technician will apply their expertise in molecular biology, genetics and biochemistry to support advanced research initiatives in DNA repair and genome editing. They will be responsible for establishing and conducting genome editing experiments in the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, including base editing and prime editing, to investigate DNA repair mechanisms, replication fork restart mechanisms, and cellular responses to DNA damage. These experiments include the design, construction and validation of yeast strains, plasmids, and gRNAs. The technician will also participate in the conduction of high-throughput genetic screens with functional characterization. Reporting to the Principal Investigator. **Summary of Key Responsibilities** (job functions include but are not limited to): * Developing and implementing research activities in consultation with the principal investigator * Improve protocols and optimize techniques related to the project * Conduct and analyze genome editing experiments, including base and prime editing, to investigate DNA repair mechanisms, genetic interactions, and cellular responses to DNA damage * Design, construct and validate plasmids, custom gRNAs and yeast strains * Perform molecular biology procedures, including cloning, transformation, PCR, DNA extraction, and sequence verification * Perform biochemical procedures including protein purification, western blot and protein interaction assays * Participate in conducting high-throughput genetic screens in yeast and validate candidate hits * Work collaboratively with other members of the lab and provide technical support * Maintain detailed and accurate laboratory notebooks, experimental records and data documentation in accordance to research standards * Participate in regular laboratory meetings, and contribute to research planning discussions * Assist with laboratory operations and administrative functions to ensure efficient daily workflow Submit samples for external analysis and coordinate with core facilities and collaborators as required **Qualifications / Requirements:** * Bachelor's degree in biological science, molecular biology or biochemistry is required * Master of Science degree, in a related field, is an asset * Experience working with Saccharomyces cerevisiae, including strain construction, transformation, media preparation and growth assays, is an asset * Experience with basic molecular techniques such as cloning, PCR, Gibson cloning, and sequencing analysis is required * 3+ years of research experience in a molecular biology, genetics or biochemistry laboratory lab is an asset * Self-starter, strong attention to detail and abilit