Research Technician, Pathology

at  Aurora Cannabis

A LITTLE ABOUT US

Hi, we’re Aurora Cannabis, and we’re so excited to meet you!
We’re a global cannabis company driven by our passion to help people improve their lives. We have a diverse team who bring their best every day so Aurora can be the cannabis provider of choice for patients and consumers. We love our work, and we especially love our high quality, innovative brands that make up the Aurora family – from Aurora, Aurora Drift, San Rafael ’71 and Whistler.
Our people combined with our collective passion for the industry is what makes Aurora a special place to work and defines what we call our “A-Team”. We are a high-performing team of cannabis experts, innovators, and champions, that work, learn and win together. We think BIG, act BOLD and execute with PURPOSE in all that we do, and will stop at nothing to cultivate the ultimate cannabis experience for our community.

JOB SUMMARY:

The Research Technician, Pathology plays a crucial role in supporting the Pathology team at Coast. The principal role of this position is to support the Pathology team in a range of technical duties under the supervision of the Lead Scientist and Research Associate(s).

ACCOUNTABILITIES:

1. Equipment Efficiency: Accountable for supporting maintenance activities that contribute to the efficient operation of equipment.
2. Documentation Accuracy: Accountable for maintaining accurate and up-to-date records of maintenance activities.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:

• Cannabis Cultivation: Knowledge of cannabis cultivation techniques, breeding methods, and plant biology.
• Data Collection: Strong skills in data collection, record-keeping, and attention to detail.
• Disease Management: Knowledge of integrated pest management (IPM) practices in cannabis cultivation.
• Compliance: Understanding of regulatory requirements related to cannabis cultivation.
• Sample Processing: Prepare media and plant samples under supervision.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Minimum of a bachelor’s in biology, Agronomy, Genetics, or related discipline or equivalent.
• Understanding of molecular techniques and theory.
• General understanding of plant and pathogen life cycles, plant health and care.
• Experience with experimental design and execution.
• Ability and willingness to perform daily repetitive tasks.
• Excellent organizational, problem-solving skills and detail oriented.
• Self-motivated, creative individual able to work in a team environment while also able to work alone in a focused manner.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• A “get things done” attitude and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced work environment is crucial.
• Competency in computer skills including use of Microsoft Suite.
• Previous lab experience a definite asset.

• Pathology Research: Carry out research experiments pertaining to plant pathology including pathogen testing, disease control and genetic resistance in coordination with Pathology team.
• Pathology Support: Purify and maintain pathogen isolates, conduct DNA/RNA extractions and PCR assays, disease scouting, prepare growth media and inoculum, plant inoculation, maintain sterile workspace when needed, conduct pathogen testing protocols, organize lab supplies, including washing of equipment and contribute to overall organization and tidiness, comply with safety and other regulatory standards.
• Data Collection and analysis: Record and maintain accurate data on pathogen testing, pathology experiments, and other relevant parameters. Analyze data and compile research reports.
• Documentation: Maintain detailed and organized records of research and pathology lab activities, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Other Duties: As assigned by the department lead and may include supporting other departments within a lab or greenhouse environment.