About OICR

OICR is Ontario's 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 the Ministry of Colleges and Universities.

Job Details

Position: Biospecimen Research Technician I

Location: MaRS Centre, Toronto

Department: 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: 35 hours/week

Job Type: On-site

Status: Full-time, Temporary (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 Development's Tissue Portal, OICR's 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-year

Position Responsibilities

The Biospecimen Research Technician I will contribute to various projects within Diagnostic Development's Tissue Portal. This will include sample accessioning, basic histology of frozen and formalin-fixed paraffin embedded human tissues, extraction of DNA/RNA from human tissues, assessment of DNA/RNA quantity/quality and sample distribution. They may also support the Ontario Tumour Bank (OTB) derivatization program (www.ontariotumourbank.ca). 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 experience working in a laboratory, or recognized equivalent
  
• Experience with microtomy, staining, macrodissection and other histology techniques
• Experience following SOPs for processing of 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: November 19, 2024
CLOSING DATE: December 4, 2024 at 4:00 p.m.

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 candidate's 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.