Research Technician in Cambridge, Ontario at Canadian Institute for Safety Wellness & Performance CISWP

About Company:

The Canadian Institute for Safety, Wellness, and Performance (CISWP) is committed to advancing the safety, wellness, and performance of Canada’s workforce and through a collaborative transdisciplinary, and applied research approach. Guided by our mission to strengthen workplace capacity and support evidence-informed decision-making, we work with industry, labour, government, and academic partners to generate high-quality evidence and develop practical tools, guidelines, and services that help organizations build productive, healthy, and sustainable workplaces.

CISWP’s transformative first-of-its-kind model is data-driven, grounded in real-world primary field data, coordinated across disciplines, pragmatic and practical and timely, proactive and forward-thinking.

About the Role:

The Research Technician will play a critical role in supporting scientific investigations by performing a variety of laboratory techniques and experiments focused on molecular and cellular biology. This position is essential for generating reliable and reproducible data that contribute to advancing research projects within the organization. The successful candidate will be responsible for preparing samples, conducting assays such as Western blotting and genotyping, and maintaining detailed records of experimental procedures and results. Collaboration with principal investigators and other team members will be key to optimizing experimental design and troubleshooting technical challenges. Ultimately, this role ensures the smooth operation of laboratory activities and the integrity of research outputs that drive scientific discovery.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience with Western blotting, molecular biology techniques, and genotyping.
• Proficiency in cell culture and tissue culture methodologies.
• Strong understanding of experimental design and data analysis in biological research.
• Familiarity with histology techniques and biochemical assays.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working in a research laboratory environment within academia or industry.
• Knowledge of advanced molecular biology tools such as PCR, qPCR, and cloning techniques.
• Training or certification in laboratory safety and biosafety protocols.
• Experience with data management software and electronic laboratory notebooks.
• Graduate-level coursework or research experience in cell biology or biochemistry.

Responsibilities:

• Perform molecular biology techniques including Western blotting, genotyping, and nucleic acid extraction with precision and accuracy.
• Conduct histological sample preparation and analysis to support tissue-based studies.
• Maintain and culture various cell lines under sterile conditions to facilitate cell biology experiments.
• Assist in the design and execution of biochemical assays and experimental protocols.
• Document experimental procedures, maintain laboratory records, and prepare reports summarizing findings.
• Ensure compliance with laboratory safety standards and proper handling of biological materials.
• Collaborate with research team members to optimize protocols and troubleshoot experimental issues.
• Manage inventory of laboratory reagents and supplies, ensuring availability for ongoing projects.

Skills:

The required skills such as Western blotting, molecular biology, and genotyping are applied daily to generate and analyze experimental data critical for research progression. Cell biology and tissue culture skills enable the technician to maintain viable cell lines and prepare biological samples for downstream applications. Histology techniques are used to process and examine tissue specimens, providing insights into cellular structure and pathology. Biochemistry and experimental design skills support the development and optimization of assays that yield reproducible and meaningful results. Preferred skills like advanced molecular techniques and data management enhance the technician’s ability to contribute to complex projects and maintain rigorous documentation standards.