Research Assistant, Food Protein Biophysics Lab

Staff - Non Union

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Job Category

Non Union Technicians and Research Assistants

Job Profile

Non Union Salaried - Research Assistant /Technician 2

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Job Title

Research Assistant, Food Protein Biophysics Lab

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Department

Research Support | Dee Research Group | Food, Nutrition and Health Program | Faculty of Land and Food Systems

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Compensation Range

$4,597.80 - $5,469.59 CAD Monthly

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Posting End Date

September 20, 2026

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

Job End Date

December 31, 2026

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 their microbiological 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.