Tech II, Cryo and Model Production
The Hospital for Sick Children at The Centre for Phenogenomics (TCP)
Position Overview
The Cryopreservation and Model Production Cores at The Centre for Phenogenomics are highly collaborative, multidisciplinary teams dedicated to generating, preserving and distributing genetically engineered mouse models to researchers in academia and industry worldwide.
We are seeking a highly motivated, collaborative individual with excellent organizational, critical thinking, and communication skills, exceptional attention to detail and the ability to work effectively independently and within a multi-disciplinary team.
Reporting to the Director, Research and Technology Development, the technician will play a hands-on role in embryo manipulation for model production, cryopreservation and cryorecovery as well as managing breeding mouse colonies. This position is ideal for a candidate with mouse handling experience who is eager to develop specialized skills in microinjection, electroporation, embryo transfer surgery, and advanced reproductive technologies used to cryopreserve and recover mouse lines.
Here's What You'll Get To Do:
- Cryopreserve and cryorecover mouse germ cells using established protocols.
- Perform a variety of embryo manipulation techniques for model production.
- Perform surgical procedures for embryo transfer.
- Assist in implementing new research protocols under supervision of the laboratory manager or project coordinator.
- Assist in organizing exports of live animals and/or frozen samples.
- Communicate and collaborate with internal stakeholders to ensure uninterrupted workflow to meet scheduled project objectives.
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Maintain concurrent experimental records and perform accurate data entry to ensure databases are up to date.
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Perform general duties maintaining laboratory readiness (e.g., media preparation, equipment maintenance, inventory control).
Here's What You'll Need:
Required:
- B.Sc. in a life science or related program or Diploma in veterinary technology or equivalent education and experience.
- At least one (1) year of practical experience handling laboratory animals and accurately following established protocols in a research setting.
- Demonstrated knowledge and experience with animal husbandry and colony management.
- Strong organizational and time management skills, meticulous record-keeping, and a commitment to quality and reproducibility.
- Excellent interpersonal skills and effective oral and written English communication.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple projects simultaneously.
- Ability to work both independently and co-operatively as part of a team.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel) is required.
- Aptitude for learning.
- A commitment to understanding and aiding in the pursuit of equity, diversity and inclusion objectives.
Preferred Qualifications:
- RLAT certification.
- Experience with fine mouse dissections and embryo transfer surgery.
- Experience with embryo microinjection and/or electroporation.
- Previous experience with laboratory information management databases and/or FileMaker Pro.
What You Will Learn in the First 12-14 Months
- Mouse handling, restraint, and husbandry practices.
- Fine tissue dissection techniques and superovulation procedures.
- Sperm collection, cryopreservation, and recovery methods.
- Embryo handling techniques, such as cryopreservation, microinjection, and electroporation.
- Preparation of laboratory media and routine maintenance of specialized equipment.
- Core operational workflows, including the use of the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) and internal databases.
Career Development & Advancement
This role is structured to support long-term career progression, offering mentorship, increasing responsibility, and opportunities to gain new skill sets within the Centre.
Employment Type:
This position is offered as an initial two-year contract, with good potential for renewal and advancement based on performance and institutional priorities.
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