DEPARTMENT/ LAB DESCRIPTION

The Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute of Mount Sinai Hospital, a University of Toronto affiliated research centre, is one of the world's leading centres in biomedical research.  With ground-breaking discoveries in research areas such as diabetes, genetic disorders, cancer and women’s and infants’ health, the Institute is committed to excellence in health research and the training of young investigators.  Strong partnerships with the clinical programs of Mount Sinai Hospital ensure that scientific knowledge is used to promote human health.  Your significant contributions will assist in maintaining our momentum in advancing our research. 

The Croitoru laboratory is interested in understanding the molecular mechanisms that regulate mucosal inflammation as it relates to the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease. In this position the successful applicant will be conducting studies utilizing patient samples to examine the role of the immune system and microbiota in intestinal inflammation.

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Technician I play an integral role in supporting the day-to-day operations of the lab; however, his/ her primary role is to provide technical support to the investigator, fellows, and students.  He/ she may be required to work on one main project designed by the investigator.  Project(s) are generally outlined by the investigator or designate. 

Under the general supervision of Dr. Croitoru and his delegates, the incumbent will be working on ongoing projects related to mucosal immunology and IBD research. The candidate will be responsible for carrying out in vitro experiments with supervision by senior lab members or in partnership with other technicians as needed. The work will include sample processing from human studies i.e., working with blood, urine, stool and biopsies; handling, aliquoting and storing samples with the aid of a database to catalogue samples and storage. The employee will be held responsible for the accuracy and reliability of results.  The employee will also be expected to record and demonstrate quality assurance, sample integrity and reliable sample identify. Employee will help others in the lab with ongoing work as needed and with general lab maintenance.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Under general supervision, performs routine standardized techniques, procedures and experiments (e.g. collecting, processing, storing and distributing various specimens)
• The blood from humans will be processed for serum, DNA extraction and isolation of fresh and viable peripheral blood mononuclear cells for future freezing, or in vitro functional analysis.
• Stool samples will need to be processed, and DNA extracted from bacteria samples from humans.
• Biopsies and aspirate will need to be processed for ex-vivo culturing in aerobic and/or anerobic conditions.
• Maintain aseptic conditions when necessary for laboratory SOPs.
• The applicant will be responsible for all activities related to receiving, shipping and processing samples from individuals involved in clinical studies.
• The lab technician will work independently to perform semi-routine laboratory functions involving the utilization of standardized techniques and procedures. 
• The employees will be held responsible for the accuracy and reliability of results.
• Other duties include maintenance, electrophoresis, recording and maintenance of records of experimental protocols and results with basic computation and plotting.
• Monitors and maintains lab’s chemical/ cell stocks and/ or equipment, as well as order supplies
• Assist other lab members
• Oversee use and maintenance of automated liquid handling robots

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

• B.Sc. in Molecular, Cellular Biology or related field
• 1 year of laboratory experience

FUNCTIONAL JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Demonstrated experience in isolating DNA from eukaryotic or prokaryotic organisms and in isolating and purifying WBC from blood samples.
• Must be able to exercise good judgment, exercise considerable independence and take initiative.
• Demonstrated attention to detail and accuracy.
• Experience with Molecular cloning techniques (ELISA, DNA/ RNA isolationamplification, purification etc.)
• Must be versatile, flexible and self-motivated
• Must possess exceptional communication skills (verbal, written and presentation) and be comfortable engaging and exchanging information with other members of the lab
• Demonstrated analytical and problem solving abilities with strong attention to detail
• Demonstrated knowledge of standard software
• Must demonstrate satisfactory work performance and attendance record
• Must be flexible with work hours (some days will start very early and/or end very late)

In accordance with Institute’s policy and legislated health and safety requirements, employment is conditional upon the verification of credentials, completion of a health review, and demonstrating proof of immunity and vaccination status of vaccine-preventable diseases. All employees and affiliates will follow safe work practices and comply with health and safety policies, procedures, and training. Successful candidates will be required to provide two (2) written reference letters from their former employer(s)/supervisor(s).

We are a fully committed to fairness and equity in employment and our recruitment and selection practices. We encourage applications from Indigenous peoples, people with disabilities, members of sexual minority groups, members of racialized groups, women and any others who may contribute to the further diversification of our Sinai Health community. Accommodation will be provided in all parts of the hiring process as required under our Access for People with Disabilities policy. Applicants need to make their requirements known in advance.

The Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute is a scent sensitive environment, and all members of the community are expected to refrain from wearing or using scented products while visiting or working at the Institute. We also support a barrier-free workplace supported by the Institute’s accessibility plan, accommodation and disability management policies and procedures. Should you require accommodation at any point during the recruitment process, including accessible job postings, please contact the Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Human Resources Department.