Reproductive Research Assistant

Position Purpose: The Reproductive Research Assistant is responsible for assisting with new and ongoing service and research projects in the Zoo's Reproductive Sciences Unit. This position will assist and provide support in implementing the Strategic Plan.

Core Role Responsibilities:
Maintain the laboratory and its equipment in proper order to optimize accuracy and efficiency.
Maintain laboratory inventory and order supplies.
Organize collected data into laboratory notebooks and computer files.
Perform preliminary interpretation of experimental results including descriptive statistics.
Diagnose and solve problems in laboratory systems, including enzyme immunoassays and other analytical procedures.
Prepare standard operating procedures for routine and experimental laboratory functions.
Collect, process and analyze samples for reproductive and stress hormone concentrations using enzyme immunoassays for new and ongoing endocrine service and research projects.
Assist in procedures for reproductive technologies, including artificial insemination, embryo collections and transfer, and oocyte collection and culture.
Liaise with Wildlife & Science staff to organize ongoing research projects.
Assist in communicating results and their significance to Wildlife & Science staff using both oral and written means.
Train and assist interns, graduate students, visiting scientists and post-doctoral fellows to carry out laboratory techniques.
Communicate with external researchers to develop, employ or learn new techniques for the research program or to initiate collaborative projects.
Initiate and carry out individual projects of interest in collaboration with curatorial, veterinary and other Wildlife & Science staff, under the guidance and direction of the Science Development Manager and Senior Director of Wildlife & Science.
Performs literature searches in preparation for publication of research material or for initiation of new projects.
Deliver education programs and presentations to interested groups.
Follow all policies and branch instructions.
Attends appropriate training as required.

Technical Knowledge and Skills:
Must have a Master of Science degree or Bachelor of Science degree in biology, zoology, animal science or the equivalent amount of training and related experience.
Must have a minimum of 3 years proven experience in the same or similar position.
Must have a knowledge of conservation issues and the role of biotechnology.
Must have practical laboratory experience, particularly with enzyme immunoassay, cell culture, or genetics.
Practical experience with animal care and restraint is an asset.
Must be able to independently perform routine duties within a service and research laboratory.
Must possess a demonstrated ability to initiate and carry out research projects with minimal supervision.
Demonstrated ability to publish in peer reviewed journals is an asset.
Demonstrated ability to prepare and receive funding from grant applications an asset.
Public speaking skills and experience is an asset.
Must ensure all applicable licenses and certificates remain valid and in good standing. Copies of licenses and certificates to be provided at time of hire and upon renewal.
Well-developed interpersonal skills, along with strong communications skills.
Working knowledge of the Ontario Occupational Health & Safety Act and WHMIS legislation.
Must possess an unrestricted Class G driver’s license valid in the Province of Ontario along with a good driving record.
Must be knowledgeable in the use of computerized programs and systems.
Must be able to work weekends, shifts and holidays as scheduled.
Must be able to deal with staff and public in a courteous and efficient manner.
Capable of meeting the physical requirements of the position.