Research Technician in Immunotherapy and Genome Editing

**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 and cellular biology to support advanced research initiatives. They will be responsible for establishing and conducting genome editing experiments on cancer cells, primary T cells and human hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs). These experiments include the production and quality control of delivery systems, on and off-target editing analysis, and functional characterization. The technician will also participate in in vivo studies, which include engraftment of human HSPCs in mouse models and CAR-T studies. 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 * Conduct and analyze genome editing experiments in a variety of mammalian cells, including primary immune cells and HSPCs, and in vivo studies for developing cellular therapies * Improve protocols and optimize techniques related to the project * Design and construct plasmids, custom gRNAs and libraries for the lab's research projects, and prepare genomic samples for sequencing * Conduct cloning and in vitro transcription experiments related to the project * Produce genome editing delivery systems, including lipid nanoparticles, engineered virus-like particles and lentiviral vectors, and deliver editing reagents as mRNA or RNP * Characterize edited cells by flow cytometry, sequencing and westerblot * Work with animal models to do in vivo studies for testing cellular therapies * 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 in cell culture, electroporation, genomic DNA extraction, flow cytometry 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 lab is an asset * Previous work with in vivo models, particularly murine models involving HSPC engrafment or CAR T cell t