ABOUT OICR

OICR is Ontario’s cancer research institute. We bring together people from across the province and around the world to improve the lives of everyone affected by cancer. We take on the biggest challenges in cancer research and deliver real-world solutions to find cancer earlier and treat it more effectively. We are committed to helping people living with cancer, as well as future generations, live longer and healthier lives.
Launched in December 2005, OICR is an independent institute funded by the Government of Ontario through the Ministry of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Ontario Institute for Cancer Research (OICR) is seeking a Biospecimen Research Technician I to meaningfully contribute to the study of cancer by providing high quality tissue processing and biobanking assistance. This individual will work as part of Diagnostic Development’s Tissue Portal, OICR’s centralized facility for tissue sample processing. They will use their relevant training in histology and molecular biology to assist the development of personalized medicine approaches to maximize the chances of positive outcomes for those experiencing cancer.
This position is temporary, full-time for one-year.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

Completion of a relevant undergraduate degree or a recognized equivalent.

• Demonstrated recent experience with microtomy and staining.
• Experience following SOPs for histology from FFPE and fresh frozen samples.
• Experience performing sample accessioning using a laboratory information management system.
• Exceptional attention to detail, including keeping comprehensive records.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong organization and time management skills.
• Developed client service skills.

For more information about OICR, please visit the website at www.oicr.on.ca.
To learn more about working at OICR, visit our career page.

The Biospecimen Research Technician I will contribute to various projects within Diagnostic Development’s Tissue Portal. This will include sample accessioning, basic histology of frozen and formalin-fixed paraffin embedded human tissues, extraction of DNA/RNA from human tissues, assessment of DNA/RNA quantity/quality and sample distribution. They may also support the Ontario Tumour Bank (OTB) derivatization program (www.ontariotumourbank.ca). They will be expected to maintain accurate and complete records within organizational databases.
The Biospecimen Research Technician I will be required to adhere to specified turn-around times and may perform other project related tasks as required while contributing to the team. Assigned work will be based on standard operating procedures (SOPs) and follow defined-quality control/assurance instructions to comply with good clinical laboratory practice (GCLP) and additional laboratory accreditations (CAP; ACD; CLIA).
The Biospecimen Research Technician I will regularly interact with other staff, exchange project-related information to improve procedures and communicate assay results. They will apply advanced technical knowledge, time management principles and organizational skills to perform the duties outlined above.