Research Assistant

This competition is open to all applicants however; internal candidates and applicants who were former employees of the University of Alberta will be given priority consideration before external candidates. Please log in to verify your internal candidate status. This position has a term length of 1 year plus 1 day. Location - This role is hybrid with a mix of remote and in-person work at North Campus Edmonton. The Research Assistant facilitates the daily operations of the Elahi Lab at the Katz Group Centre, manages the ordering of reagents and materials, and actively participates in research activities. The role provides laboratory support by serving as a resource for undergraduate and graduate students. Key duties include monitoring animal breeding colonies, ensuring safety compliance, and liaising with the Department regarding equipment maintenance and waste disposal procedures. Lab Operations and Inventory Management: Coordinate the ordering using online supplyNet, tracking, and maintenance of laboratory reagents, consumables, and materials using the lab inventory system on Quartzy. Ensure materials are stored in accordance with manufacturing and safety standards and in compliance with UofA policy/procedures. Liaise with departmental members regarding laboratory safety, equipment maintenance, and waste disposal procedures; maintains safety documentation (SOPs, SDS), coordinates routine inspections, monitors equipment maintenance schedules (monthly), and ensures adherence to WHMIS, institutional EHS policies, and applicable federal/provincial regulations. Ensure proper labeling of all waste containers (contents, hazards, dates) Arrange scheduled pickups with institutional waste disposal services Ensure compliance with storage limits and timelines for hazardous waste Train lab members on proper disposal procedures Monitor and restock waste containers (e.g., sharps bins, biohazard bags) Assist with documentation for regulatory audits or inspections Maintain a clean, organized laboratory environment. Laboratory Support and Mentorship: Serve as a technical resource for undergraduate and graduate students within the lab. ○ Assist the PI in providing hands-on training to undergraduate students and volunteers. Education: Undergraduate degree in a relevant field (Biological or Medical Sciences preferred); equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered as follows: 1 to 3 years of experience in an academic research environment. 1 to 3 years of experience in maintaining lab operations 1 to 3 years of experience in inventory tracking and management Skills: Demonstrated proactive organizational and excellent time management skills with demonstrated problem-solving and multi-tasking skills with proven ability to meet deadlines and prioritize work effectively. Proven ability to manage competing priorities; being persuasive, engaging, clear and credible communication to gain support and commitment in various situations. Superior interpersonal skills and verbal / written communication skills to deal effectively with varied and diverse internal and external stakeholders. Demonstrated high standard of professionalism and proven ability to build and maintain strong collaborative working relationships in a team environment while. Proven ability to strategize and develop creative and efficient solutions and work independently with minimal supervision. Demonstrates initiative within scope of responsibilities. Demonstrated superior attention to detail and high levels of accuracy are required. Strong working knowledge of relevant Faculty / Dept and UAPPOL policies, procedures, and best practices. Proven experience and ability to perform in-depth searches on various databases, online retrieval services, internet search tools, websites, etc. to support project activities. Proven beginner-level knowledge, skills, and abilities working effectively / efficiently with a wide variety of computer technologies and programs including: MS Office applications (Word, PowerPoint, and Excel); Google Applications, Google suite (Gmail, Google Calendar, Google Drive, Google Forms); Zoom/video conferencing, website maintenance, and PeopleSoft (Campus Solutions). Application Instructions Click "Apply Now" to submit your resume and cover letter. This position is subject to all applicable terms and conditions of the collective agreement between the Governors of the University of Alberta and the Non-Academic Staff Association (NASA). This position offers a comprehensive benefits package .