About OICR

OICR is Ontarios cancer research institute. We bring together people from across the province and around the world to improve the lives of everyone affected by cancer. We take on the biggest challenges in cancer research and deliver real-world solutions to find cancer earlier and treat it more effectively. We are committed to helping people living with cancer, as well as future generations, live longer and healthier lives.

Launched in December 2005, OICR is an independent institute funded by the Government of Ontario through theMinistry ofColleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security.

Job Details

Position: Biospecimen Research Technician I

Location: MaRS Centre, Toronto

Department: Tissue Portal, Diagnostic Development

Reports To: Senior Project Manager, Tissue Portal and Operations Manager, OTB

Salary: Commensurate with level of experience; total compensation includes a competitive benefits plan, plus a defined benefit pension plan (HOOPP)

Hours: 35hours/week

Job Type: Onsite

Status: Full-time, Temporary for one (1) year

Position Summary

The Ontario Institute for Cancer Research (OICR) is seeking a Biospecimen Research Technician I to meaningfully contribute to the study of cancer by providing high quality tissue processing and biobanking assistance. This individual will work as part of Diagnostic Developments Tissue Portal, OICRs centralized facility for tissue sample processing. They will use their relevant training in histology and molecular biology to assist the development of personalized medicine approaches to maximize the chances of positive outcomes for those experiencing cancer.

This position is temporary, full-time for one (1) year.

Position Responsibilities

The Biospecimen Research Technician I will contribute to various projects within Diagnostic Developments Tissue Portal. This will include sample accessioning, extraction of DNA/RNA from human tissues, assessment of DNA/RNA quantity/quality, basic histology techniques and sample distribution for various clinical trials and/or research projects as part of the Marathon of Hope Cancer Centers Network. They will be expected to maintain accurate and complete records within organizational databases. The Biospecimen Research Technician I will be required to adhere to specified turn-around times and may perform other project related tasks as required while contributing to the team.

Assigned work will be based on standard operating procedures (SOPs) and follow defined-quality control/assurance instructions to comply with good clinical laboratory practice (GCLP) and additional laboratory accreditations (CAP; ACD; CLIA).

The Biospecimen Research Technician I will regularly interact with other staff, exchange project-related information to improve procedures and communicate assay results. They will apply advanced technical knowledge, time management principles and organizational skills to perform the duties outlined above.

Qualifications

• Completion of a relevant undergraduate degree and previous experience working in a professional laboratory
• Experience performing nucleic acid extraction, quantification and qualification
• Experience following SOPs for processing of human FFPE and fresh frozen samples
• Experience performing sample accessioning using a laboratory information management system
• Confidence working with clinical samples under laboratory accreditation and/or GCLP guidelines
• Demonstrated ability to work as part of a diverse team
• Exceptional attention to detail, including keeping comprehensive records
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Strong organization and time management skills
• Developed client service skills
  

For more information about OICR, please visit the website at www.oicr.on.ca.

To learn more about working at OICR, visit our career page.

POSTED DATE: April 25, 2025
CLOSING DATE: Until Filled

OICR is committed to fostering a climate of equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility. This commitment is central to, and mutually supportive of, our research excellence mandate. We welcome and respect the diversity of all members of our community and we support an inclusive culture for all. We welcome all applicants, and encourage applications from racialized persons, Indigenous Peoples, women, persons with disabilities, LGBTQ2S persons, and others who may contribute to furthering a diversity of ideas within our community. OICR is committed to fair assessment of a candidates abilities, and consideration for diversity of thought, method, and experience. Providing an accessible workplace and recruitment process is important to us, as described in our Accessibility Plan (https://oicr.on.ca/accessibility/). Should you require accommodation during any stage in the recruitment process, please complete the form at the bottom of page https://oicr.on.ca/careers/. Information received related to accommodation will be handled confidentially.

Resume Format:If you elect to apply, please click on the Apply for this Job button below. You will be required to enter contact details, and to attach your resume to your application.Please attach your resume as a .pdf or .doc file.

The Ontario Institute for Cancer Research thanks all applicants. However, only those under consideration will be contacted.