AVC Diagnostic Services (AVC DS) is seeking applications from qualified candidates to fill a Microbiology Research-Diagnostic Technologist position at the Multiplex Assay Laboratory of RDVS. We are looking for an individual with a strong background in molecular microbiology and experience in assay/product/technology development and its application for disease surveillance.
The individual will work as part of a team in RDVS and AVC DS in the implementation of a research and development project funded by Agriculture and AgriFood Canada (AAFC) in partnership with the Canadian Pork Council (CPC) on multiplex assay and proficiency testing for swine health surveillance and works with the Diagnostic and Surveillance Microbiologist and other members of the team, Diagnostic Virologist of RDVS, Director of AVC Diagnostic Services, Swine Specialist at AVC and RDVS technical personnel in achieving the overall goal of the project.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• The successful candidate must hold a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology or in a related discipline. A Master of Science would be an asset.
• Minimum three (3) years’ experience with research and development involving molecular technologies on microbial agents (bacteria, viruses etc.) and diagnostic testing.
• Experience in any of the following related disciplines: microbiology, immunology, virology or molecular biology.
• Work experience in assay, product and technology development and experience in troubleshooting of molecular assays.
• Computer skills and extensive experience with software related to molecular biology technologies (primer design, alignment, sequencing, etc.) and basic software related to research and development.
• Knowledge and experience in the preparation of documents related to the protection of intellectual property is an asset.
• In-depth knowledge and hands-on experience in molecular diagnostic techniques and some immunodiagnostic techniques.

• Provides molecular biology support in research and development which involves fine-tuning, enhancement, laboratory validation, diagnostic validation, development of proficiency testing program materials and development of a surveillance application of new molecular assays that target multiple pathogens for enteric and respiratory viral pathogens of swine. Troubleshoots assay inefficiencies or failed runs to determine root cause and proposes solutions.
• Processes swine enteric and respiratory samples using semi-automated technologies and conducts assays for the molecular detection of swine enteric and respiratory pathogens using multiplex assay utilizing bead-based technology and qPCR.
• Works with the project team at AVC, Canadian Pork Council, veterinary laboratories in Canada, veterinary practitioners and other surveillance networks across Canada in the development of Proficiency Testing Program and Swine Health Surveillance Program for swine enteric and respiratory viruses in Canada. Including preparing quality assured proficiency testing materials and contributing to the development of proficiency testing electronic modules for SEV and SRV.
• Supports the ongoing maintenance of the multiplex laboratory and inventory systems for biosafety requirements and research and development. Including the disposal of biohazardous waste, maintaining biohazardous materials inventory, ensuring cleaning procedures for the laboratory are conducted as per standard operating procedures etc.
• Contributes to maintaining quality in research and development through documentation, preparing standard operating procedures, following established SOPs and assisting in the training of new personnel in laboratory methods and procedures, e.g. technical and biosafety.