Research Assistant​/Technician

Job Title
:
Research Assistant / Technician 3

Department
:
Subramaniam Laboratory | Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology | Faculty of Medicine

Compensation Range
: $4,567.04 - $5,385.67 CAD Monthly

Posting End Date
:
January 21, 2026

Job End Date
:
January 31, 2027

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant/Tech 3 to support PROGENITER, a multi-year research program to develop therapeutics that target infectious diseases at an accelerated pace. The successful candidate will be responsible for the production and purification of proteins and protein complexes of interest to the research program and will be closely involved in testing of protein activity using a variety of in vitro and cell-based assays.

PROGENITER is a UBC‑affiliated, nationally recognized, multi-year research program that enables rapid design, engineering, and production of antibody leads against viral diseases to better prepare Canada for future pandemics. It is a key component of Canada’s Immuno‑Engineering and Biomanufacturing Hub (CIEBH) and aligns with Canada’s national pandemic preparedness strategy.

• Perform molecular cloning, propagation and purification of plasmids
• Perform recombinant protein expression in
  
  E. coli, insect and mammalian cell culture systems
• Perform protein purification using techniques such as FPLC affinity chromatography, SEC, IEX, and preparation of samples for subsequent analysis
• Perform protein characterization using techniques such as SDS‑PAGE, Western Blotting, DSF, BLI, plate reader‑based biochemical assays
• Maintain mammalian cell cultures and develop cell‑based assays
• Maintain detailed lab notebook and communicate experimental results regularly
• Analyze, interpret, and communicate biochemical data with proficiency
• Operate and maintain essential biochemical equipment including benchtop instruments, small and large centrifuges and autoclave
• Restock laboratory consumables as needed
• Perform additional responsibilities as assigned

Failure to maintain a high standard of work and consistent communication will result in project delays, affect the quality of research output, and may impact working conditions, reputation, and funding.

Failure to follow safety precautions may result in serious injury to the incumbent and others.

The technician will work independently following established protocols while maintaining communication with the team, supervised by Dr. Sriram Subramaniam.

The technician does not supervise others.

• Completion of a relevant technical program or a university degree in a relevant discipline and a minimum of three years of related experience (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
• Willingness to respect diverse perspectives, including perspectives in conflict with one’s own.
• Demonstrates a commitment to enhancing awareness, knowledge, and skills related to equity, diversity, and inclusion.

• Degree in biology, biotechnology, or biochemistry with 3–5 years of related research experience.
• PCR and cloning techniques, including bacterial transformation and plasmid purification.
• Aseptic techniques for handling bacterial and mammalian cell cultures.
• In‑depth experience with protein purification and characterization.
• Familiarity with mammalian cell line culturing.
• Experience with transient expression of plasmids in mammalian cell lines.
• Familiarity with plate‑based luminescent/fluorescent assays.
• Aptitude for learning new technologies, instrumentation and software.
• Ability to prioritize work and deliver results in a fast‑paced environment.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Demonstration of detailed record‑keeping and data documentation.
• Strong interpersonal skills, including maintaining professional working relationships within a diverse research group.
• Proficiency with standard computer skills (e.g., Microsoft Office).

At UBC, we believe that attracting and sustaining a diverse workforce is key to the success of research. Our commitment to employment equity, inclusion and fairness guides our hiring practices.