Research Technician I

Classification & Regular Hours

Hours per Week: 37.5

Salary Level: N

Please note, this is a temporary full-time, wholly grant-funded contract opportunity until August 31, 2028.

Secondments are Welcome

Click here for more details on secondment opportunities.

About Western

With an international reputation for success, Western ranks as one of Canada's top research-intensive universities. Our research excellence expands knowledge and drives discovery with real-world application. Western also provides an exceptional employment experience, offering competitive salaries, a wide range of employment opportunities and one of Canada's most beautiful campuses.

About Us

The Robarts Research Institute within the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry at Western University has a mission to accelerate medical discovery. Through a powerful integration of basic and clinical research, we are driving major advances that impact many of today's most devastating diseases.

The Mesoscopic Integrated Neuroimaging Data (MIND) platform is a groundbreaking initiative that will revolutionize brain research by allowing scientists to capture and analyze unprecedented, detailed images of the brain on both large and small scales. This advanced technology combines ultra-powerful MRI and light sheet microscopy, which enables researchers to see the brain's structure and activity in unprecedented detail. By linking images of living brains with detailed microscopy of brain tissue, scientists can gain deeper insights into how diseases like Alzheimer's or Parkinson's progress, affect brain circuits, and potentially how they can be treated.

The MIND Platform is based at Western University, where it builds on two well-established core facilities: the Centre for Functional and Metabolic Mapping and the Western Advanced Microscopy Core. The platform brings together expert staff, sophisticated imaging tools, and cutting-edge software to create standardized and easy-to-access brain imaging data. Researchers around the world will be able to send brain tissue for imaging, gaining access to high-quality data without the need for purchasing advanced equipment.

Responsibilities

The Research Technician provides technical and operational support to microscopy research associates, contributing to cutting-edge imaging research at the Robarts Research Institute. The role facilitates experiments by managing imaging equipment, preparing specimens (such as animal perfusions, tissue collection, tissue sectioning, tissue clearing), performing immunohistochemistry and other immunofluorescence labelling, and assisting with data acquisition, analysis, and interpretation. The Research Technician is responsible for ensuring sample preparation quality, assisting with developing and optimizing imaging protocols, monitoring and maintaining supplies, and ensuring compliance with laboratory and institutional guidelines. The role maintains proper documentation for all procedures and experimental outcomes, and assists with inventory management of lab supplies and reagents. The Research Technician will perform all tasks, under the direction of the supervisor and research team leadership, adhering to established protocols and ensuring high standards of research quality and integrity. The role will demonstrate a commitment to meticulous experimental execution, ethical research practices, and a collaborative approach to advancing scientific discovery. The role reports via regular meetings with Principal Investigators and other research staff to review ongoing activities, plan future activities, and anticipate future requirements with respect to project needs.

Qualifications

Education:

• 4-year University Bachelor's Degree in Neuroscience, Biology, Medical Science, Biotechnology or other relevant disciplines
• MSc with a strong imaging component preferred

Experience:

• 2 years of experience working in a research-intensive laboratory environment working with mice imaging
• Hands-on experience with advanced imaging techniques, including confocal, lightsheet and/or other types of fluorescence microscopy
• Experience with image analysis and computer software
• Experience in molecular biology techniques such as immunofluorescence labelling, immunohistochemistry, and tissue with preparation (such as animal perfusions, tissue collection, tissue sectioning, staining)
• Experience in preparing solution and fixatives for microscopy
• Experience in handling research animals such as mice and/or marmosets
• Experience with multiple microscopy techniques and quantification of fluorescence images preferred

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Familiarity with maintaining databases and performing data analysis in a research setting with the ability to accurately record, analyze, and interpret experimental data
• Proficiency in microscopy techniques, including confocal and fluorescence imaging, or lightsheet microscopy
• Strong understanding of biology methods such as immunohistochemistry and tissue preparation
• Knowledge of sample preparation protocols and imaging optimization
• Familiarity with data analysis tools and imaging software (such as ImageJ, Imaris and or Python scripts)
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills for technical challenges in experiments and equipment
• Attention to detail to ensure high-quality, reproducible results
• Excellent time management skills to handle multiple tasks and prioritize effectively
• Ability to maintain accurate and organized records of experiments and procedures
• Familiarity with inventory management and tracking laboratory supplies
• Strong interpersonal skills to work effectively in a team environment
• Ability to communicate technical information clearly to expert and non-expert users
• Strong communication skills for training students and junior staff on techniques and equipment
• Familiarity with health and safety protocols, including hazardous material handling and disposal
• Knowledge of institutional policies and regulations related to research and laboratory practices
• Commitment to ethical research standards and adherence to compliance guidelines
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and deadlines in a dynamic research environment
• Proactive in identifying areas for improvement in laboratory procedures and workflows
• Willingness to learn and implement new techniques or technologies as needed

Union Statement

Western welcomes applications from all qualified individuals; however, it is the university's policy to give first consideration to all qualified UWOSA applicants.

Background Checks

Please note, successful applicants may be required to produce a current Police Information Check from a police service prior to commencing employment.

Western Values Diversity

The University invites applications from all qualified individuals. Western is committed to employment equity and diversity in the workplace and welcomes applications from women, members of racialized groups/visible minorities, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation, and persons of any gender identity or gender expression.

Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. If you require accommodations for interviews or other meetings, please contact Human Resources or phone 519-661-2194.

Please Note:

This position is an existing vacancy. This position is fully in-person, on-site. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those chosen for an interview will be contacted.