Genome Sciences Technologist - Biospecimen Core

Advancing Genomics Technologies for Health and Life Sciences

The Michael Smith Genome Sciences Centre (GSC), a provincial program within the Provincial Health Services Authority (PHSA), is a recognized international leader in genomics, bioinformatics, and genome technology innovation. By developing and deploying cutting-edge sequencing and computational platforms, the GSC supports breakthrough research across cancer, rare and infectious diseases, and the broader life sciences. Our work enables earlier diagnosis, novel therapeutic approaches, and transformative applications of genomics to improve human health and environmental resilience—delivering both social and economic impact through science.

Job Reference No.:  GST_P00634_HSA_198947_Biospec Core_2026_06_02

Job Summary

In accordance with the Purpose, Vision, Values and Coast Salish Teachings, and strategic direction of PHSA, safety, including both patient and employee safety, is a priority and a responsibility shared by everyone at PHSA. As such, the requirement to continuously improve quality and safety is inherent in all aspects of this position.

The Genome Sciences Technologist (GST) performs various molecular biology laboratory techniques and procedures using laboratory robots, including biospecimen procurement, sample handling and quality control, diverse library construction and high throughput sequencing methods, in a large scale Genomics production facility. The GST assists in the development and/or implementation of new methods, materials, procedures, instruments and techniques and provides assistance to specific research projects or programs.

Duties

1. Performs genomics laboratory research assistance related to specific projects or programs in accordance with controlled laboratory procedures. This includes performing tasks such as biospecimen receipt and quality check, laboratory information management system (LIMS) data entry, RNA and DNA purification, cDNA synthesis, genome and transcriptome next generation library construction and sequencing, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) experiments, and agarose gel electrophoresis.
2. Assists in the development and/or implementation of new methods, materials, procedures, instruments, and techniques (collectively termed ‘Technology Development’) by providing feedback to supervisors following protocol assessments. Contributes to the development of guidelines, standard operating procedures and transfer of new technology procedures being implemented by the production platform.
3. Records and reports test results in laboratory software and summarizes results to supervisors and escalates concerns as required.
4. Prepares solutions following standard operating procedures.
5. Processes patient samples according to established procedures for clinical sequencing diagnostic tests.
6. Maintains general lab and equipment cleanliness. Recognizes and reports malfunctions in equipment to the Assistant Production Coordinator.
7. Works within a regulated quality management system by performing tasks such as completing training according to accreditation requirements and sending required training records and documentation specifying corrective and preventative actions (CA/PA) to the Quality Assurance team in accordance with Quality Management Systems policies.
8. Provides orientation, collegial information and/or demonstration of equipment, work methods and processes to others, including other technologists and new staff as required.
9. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education, Training and Experience

• Graduation from a recognized diploma program in Biotechnology, Microbiology or Biochemistry and two (2) years’ of recent related experience in a research laboratory or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience acceptable to the Genome Sciences Centre Group Leaders and Production Coordinators.

Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of molecular biology techniques particularly DNA and RNA preparation and manipulation and a good understanding of genomics technologies.
• Demonstrated ability to perform detailed procedures reproducibly and accurately.
• Demonstrated interpersonal skills including the ability to work effectively with others in a team environment
• Demonstrated knowledge and ability to use relevant computer operation systems and software.
• Demonstrated ability to efficiently organization work assignments and establish priorities.
• Physical ability to perform the duties of the position.

Benefits:

Every PHSA employee enables the best possible patient care for our patients and their families. Whether you are providing direct care, conducting research, or making it possible for others to do their work, you impact the lives of British Columbians today and in the future. That’s why we’re focused on your care too – offering health, wellness, development programs to support you – at work and at home.

• Join one of BC’s largest employers with province-wide programs, services and operations – offering vast opportunities for growth, development, and recognition programs that honour the commitment and contribution of all employees.

• Access to professional development opportunities through our in-house training programs, including +2,000 courses, such as our San’yas Indigenous Cultural Safety Training course, or Core Linx for Leadership roles.

• Enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, which includes statutory benefits - Canada Pension Plan, Employment Insurance and WorkSafe BC plus the PHSA group benefits plan which includes medical & dental extended health, and group life insurance coverage, and psychological health & safety programs and holistic wellness resources.

• Annual statutory holidays (13) with generous vacation entitlement and accruement.

• PHSA is a remote work friendly employer, welcoming flexible work options to support our people (eligibility may vary, depending on position).

• Access to WorkPerks, a premium discount program offering a wide range of local and national discounts on electronics, entertainment, dining, travel, wellness, apparel, and more.

Job Type: 

Regular Full-Time, 7.5 hrs. per day

100% onsite

Salary Range:  

$38.82/hour for the 1st year - $48.44/hour for the 6th year

The starting salary for this position would be determined with consideration of the successful candidate’s relevant education and experience, and would be in alignment with the provincial compensation reference plan and grant fund availability.

Higher salary offers above the midpoint range require additional review and approval.

Apply:

As this is a union position, you will also have to apply either as an internal or external applicant through http://www.phsa.ca/careersusing the posting reference 198947.

Please submit a detailed cover letter and resume to Show email, using Job Reference No.:  GST_P00634_HSA_198947_Biospec Core_2026_06_02 in the subject line of your email.

While we value and review all applications, please note that due to the volume of submissions only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. This posting will remain online until the position is filled.

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority.

Important!

COVID-19 vaccines protect against infection from severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-Cov-2) that causes COVID-19. 

The COVID-19 vaccine has been added to the list of high-priority immunizations recommended for health-care workers. Health care workers should ensure they are up-to-date on all routine immunizations. 

Please note all jobs at the GSC are based in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Flexible work options may be available for this position upon request and is subject to change in accordance with GSC’s operational needs and PHSA’s Flexible Work Options Policy.

We believe that equity, diversity and inclusivity are essential for the advancement of human knowledge and science.

We welcome all applicants and provide all employees with equal opportunity for advancement, regardless of race, colour, ancestry, place of origin, political belief, religion, marital status, family status, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, conviction of a criminal or summary conviction offence unrelated to their employment.