Classification & Regular Hours

Hours per Week: 35

Salary Grade R2

The base salary will be $66,350 - $94,700 per annum. Starting salary will be aligned with the successful candidate’s experience, skills, and demonstrated qualifications.

Please note, this is a wholly grant funded, 2 year temporary full time contract opportunity.

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 mission of the Department of Microbiology and Immunology, within the Schulich School of Medicine, is to conduct research which contributes to a better understanding of the interplay between microbes and the immune system.

The mission of Dr. Moynihan’s research is to understand the drivers of mycobacterial cell surface heterogeneity. We combine microbiology, biochemistry and analytical chemistry to understand these processes at the molecular level.

Responsibilities

The Research Associate will apply their expertise and knowledge to advance research projects within the Moynihan Lab in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, under the direction of the Principal Investigator. The role will contribute directly to ongoing research in mycobacterial cell envelope biology, including areas such as glycoside hydrolase enzymology, Type VII secretion systems, and capsule polysaccharide biology, by designing, building, and conducting experiments and supporting the development of innovative research initiatives. The position will play a role in coordinating and managing the day-to-day operations of the research laboratory, including oversight of laboratory safety compliance, procurement and purchasing, inventory and supply management, equipment maintenance, and documentation processes. The Research Associate will also support and train graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and other research personnel in laboratory techniques and best practices, while helping to resolve operational and technical issues that arise in the research environment. In addition, the Research Associate will support the preparation of grant applications, manuscripts, and research protocols and will plan, implement, and coordinate data collection, perform data analysis, evaluate and interpret experimental results. The role will prepare reports and other written materials for presentations, publications, and submissions to internal and external stakeholders as required.

Qualifications

Education:

• Master’s degree in microbiology, biochemistry or relevant discipline

Experience:

• 2 years of experience in an academic or research laboratory environment, including hands-on experimental work in microbiology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related discipline
• Experience supporting laboratory operations, including inventory management, equipment maintenance, procurement, safety compliance, and/or training of students or research personnel

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Knowledge of and ability to work safely in a Containment Level 2 (CL2) laboratory environment, including adherence to biohazard handling procedures, regulatory requirements, and institutional safety protocols
• Familiarity with microbial genetics, molecular biology, and/or analytical biochemistry techniques
• Familiarity with regulations and guidelines governing research in an academic environment and with best practices for reviewing and writing grant proposals
• In depth knowledge with methods for research design, implementation, and analysis
• Familiarity with techniques for updating, managing and extracting data from a research database
• Ability to collaborate across internal and external boundaries to meet common objectives, improve outcomes and support work beyond one's own unit
• Communication skills to describe technical concepts effectively to both novice and sophisticated users
• Communication skills with an ability to complete detailed analytics and reports
• Ability to work in a manner that models best practices in confidentiality standards
• Ability to provide solutions and ideas for improvement by using imaginative approaches where constructive thinking and innovation are required
• Detail-oriented with an ability to function and process information with high levels of accuracy
• Ability to work within a flexible schedule to accommodate the research group’s events and activities
• Ability to provide guidance, support and feedback in a way that is positively received
• Results-oriented with the ability to motivate and coach students to meet high performance standards, while working effectively as a member of the research team
• Ability to investigate defined issues, solicit input, and suggest remedies and alternative approaches that meet the needs of the situation
• Proven ability and natural inclination to develop relationships by interacting with people in a professional, respectful and diplomatic manner
• Ability to interpret and identify key results from research and to succinctly summarize research findings
• Ability to work independently and effectively as a member of the team to achieve department goals
• Ability to adhere to legislated safety requirements and Western safety policies
• Demonstrated working knowledge of relevant scientific/research principles
• Advanced skills in software and applications used to produce and analyze research outcomes
• Demonstrated ability to research/investigate issues and resolve problems
• Familiarity with University policies and procedures preferred

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.