Research Assistant, Food Protein Biophysics Lab

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Job Profile

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Department

Compensation Range

Posting End Date

Note: Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on the Posting End Date.

Job End Date

This position will be filled internally. It is posted for informational purposes only.

At UBC, we believe that attracting and sustaining a diverse workforce is key to the successful pursuit of excellence in research, innovation, and learning for all faculty, staff and students. Our commitment to employment equity helps achieve inclusion and fairness, brings rich diversity to UBC as a workplace, and creates the necessary conditions for a rewarding career.

Job Summary

This position will provide technical support to the food protein biophysics lab for the research project on the Solanum tuberosum(common potato), plant specific insert (StPSI).

Organizational Status

Reports to the Principal Investigator (Dr. Rickey Y. Yada) and Dr. Derek Dee. Will work with the research associate (Dr. Aicha Asma Houfani) to support theirmicrobiological challenge testing experiments, in vitro structure comparison alongside in silico structural analysis of StPSI.

Work Performed

- Expresses and purifies StPSI proteins using established protocols for antifungal assays, circular dichroism, and NMR experiments, escalating troubleshooting or non-routine issues to the Research Associate and supervisors.

- Assists with data analysis and drafts manuscripts for publication.

- Provides regular updates to collaborators and at laboratory meetings and presentations.

- Performs other duties as required.

Consequence of Error/Judgement

Incorrect decisions would likely be costly in terms of wasted time and flawed data. It is important that the individual is sharp, energetic and conscientious. Inappropriate judgment will cause missing data or biased results; missed deadlines which will delay timelines in the PI’s research project. Must decide on how to best use time efficiently and multi-task.

Supervision Received

Reports to the Principal Investigator (Dr. Rickey Y. Yada) and Dr. Derek Dee.

Supervision Given

None.

Minimum Qualifications

High school graduation, some additional training in a related field and a minimum two years of related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

- Willingness to respect diverse perspectives, including perspectives in conflict with one’s own

- Demonstrates a commitment to enhancing one’s own awareness, knowledge, and skills related to equity, diversity, and inclusion

Preferred Qualifications

Education & Experience:

- Undergraduate degree in biochemistry, microbiology or molecular biology.

- Minimum of 2 years of experience in dry-lab and wet-lab or the equivalent combination of education and experience.

Skills:

- Strong verbal, written communication and interpersonal skills.

- Strong analytical and research skills.

- Must be adaptable and flexible.

- Must have accuracy and attention to detail.

- Ability to work independently and within a team environment.

- Must have biological and chemical safety certifications from UBC (or willingness to complete the courses).

- Must commit to meticulous documentation of all lab work in a lab notebook, including methods, observations, while following protocols with integrity.