Research Associate - Healthcare

About Vitacore: At Vitacore, we integrate cutting-edge research and technology with a profound commitment to sustainability and innovation. Our journey began with a focus on the healthcare sector, where we became leaders in manufacturing recycling single-use protective equipment. Join us in our mission to innovate and create solutions that care for and protect people and the environment globally.
Vitacore is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Research Assistant to support its Research and Development (R&D) team.
This role is ideal for a candidate with hands on experience in molecular biology techniques, including PCR/qPCR, who is eager to contribute to both experimental work and broader R&D initiatives. You will be involved in designing, optimising, and executing assays, while also supporting cross-functional projects and ensuring high-quality data collection and documentation.
Working in a fast-paced environment, you will play a key role in advancing ongoing research projects, troubleshooting experimental challenges, and maintaining strong alignment across teams.
Manages and replies to R&D project-related correspondence, such as regulatory bodies, external laboratories, etc.
Collaborate with different teams to ensure alignment and timely completion of project deliverables.
Participate in data collection and coordination of study activities and field testing.
Quality inspection and testing of R&D prototypes and/or final products following internal protocols.
Meets regularly with supervisor to discuss research assignments.
Replenish inspection tools and/or materials as needed from equipment suppliers and vendors.
Conduct literature reviews and regulatory research to identify medical device performance requirements for product development.
Analyze research data, interpret results, and prepare presentations and meeting minutes.
Support Quality department and participate and contribute to regulatory audits on a needed basis.

Project Specific Responsibilities may include:
Optimize, design, and run PCR/qPCR experiments and cycling conditions, particularly for short primers and low-literature contexts, by systematically iterating annealing temperatures, annealing durations, touchdown strategies, cycle counts, and extension times.
Maintain detailed experimental documentation including reagent volumes, tube mapping, cycling conditions, run data, and troubleshooting notes to ensure repeatability and data integrity.
Assist in troubleshooting experimental issues and refining protocols to improve performance and reproducibility.
Science background or science-related experience is an asset.
Hands-on experience with PCR/qPCR and general molecular biology techniques is strongly preferred.
Experience in regulatory affairs is an asset.
A level of education, training, and experience equivalent to Grade 12 plus graduation from a science or engineering program.
Demonstrated ability to use word processing, spreadsheet, presentation software, and Microsoft Office Outlook calendar management at advanced levels.
From $25 to $28 CAD per hour, depending on experience.

• Comprehensive medical and dental benefits.
• 2 weeks vacation.
• manufactures personal protective equipment for Canadian frontline workers, available on demand. Our facility houses state-of-the-art equipment to produce millions of respirators every month. All of our current and future PPE is made using a Canadian supply chain and quality Canadian materials.