Laboratory Research Assistant (Research Institute)

Home to over 40 departments and institutes, the University of Toronto's Temerty Faculty of Medicine lies at the heart of the Toronto Academic Health Science Network and is a global leader in ground-breaking research and education, spanning clinical medicine, basic science and the rehabilitation sciences sectors.
The Department of Immunology is an innovative and dynamic basic science department dedicated to excellence in research and teaching. We operate as an integrated, collaborative community with approximately 85 investigators in 10 research sites in Toronto, which includes our hospital-based university-affiliated research institutes. Together we strive to advance biomedical discoveries in Immunology, increase our understanding of fundamental Immunological principles and develop new applications for immune-based therapies.
This Research Technician role supports cutting-edge research by preparing and analyzing routine and complex biological samples using a broad range of experimental techniques in virology, microbiology, genetics, and immunology. The position involves conducting and validating experiments, managing mouse colonies and other model organisms, and serving as a technical resource by demonstrating laboratory procedures and orienting students and staff to protocols and safety practices. Responsibilities also include supporting lab operations such as inventory management, equipment maintenance, biosafety compliance, and troubleshooting routine technical issues. This role requires the ability to work both independently and collaboratively, applying sound judgment, strong organizational skills, and meticulous record-keeping to ensure high-quality research outcomes.
Collecting experimental data, verifying results, and passing on findings while serving as a technical resource on lab protocols, experimental procedures, and equipment
Applying established standards when preparing routine samples and providing animal care for research projects and/or experiments
Providing detailed explanations and demonstrating procedures to students and/or employees on lab techniques, experimental procedures, and protocols
Preparing, assembling and setting-up materials, equipment and supplies used in teaching and/or research labs
Ensuring the safe handling of specialized lab equipment and materials while troubleshooting routine equipment repairs and issues
Maintaining inventory of glass and dishware, workstations, chemicals and apparatus within the lab and following safety guidelines

Bachelor's Degree or acceptable combination of equivalent experience
Minimum two years experience preparing routine samples using a broad range of experimental methods for research projects and/or experiments
Demonstrated experience with standard immunological, biochemical, and molecular biology techniques
Experience with sterile technique, cell culture, operation of biosafety cabinets, and working with risk group 2 organisms
Experience conducting experiments including those related to the purification of biological compounds and a variety of assays (e.g. biomedical, molecular, in vivo, microscopy, immunofluorescence and other anti-based assays, RT-qPCR, physiological, high throughput, etc.)
Experience maintaining laboratory inventories, equipment logs, service records, and supporting purchasing/vendor coordination
Familiarity with lab health and safety regulations, including biological waste disposal
Ability to orient students and staff to laboratory procedures and safe work practices
Ability to maintain accurate laboratory records, organize experimental data, and use electronic notebooks or shared databased effectively
Proficiency with computing and data management tools (e.g., Microsoft Officer, Google Workspace, or equivalent systems)
Ability to exercise sound judgement and initiative in resolving day-to-day technical or research problems
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team research setting
Schedule: Full-Time
Pay scale and job class assignment is subject to determination pursuant to the Job Evaluation/Pay Equity Maintenance Protocol.
Administrative / Managerial
Candidates who are members of Indigenous, Black, racialized and 2SLGBTQ+ communities, persons with disabilities, and other equity deserving groups are encouraged to apply, and their lived experience shall be taken into consideration as applicable to the posted position.