Research Technician II

Union: Non-Union
Number of Vacancies: 1
New or Replacement Position: Replacement
Site: MaRS
Department: Research
Reports to: Senior Scientist
Salary Range: $60,000 - $65,000 Annually
Hours: 35 Hours Per Week
Shifts: Days
Status: Permanent Full-time
Closing Date: February 20, 2026

Position Summary:
We are seeking a highly specialized Research Technician II to lead our Immuno-Oncology initiatives and drive the operational success of the RMC facility. This role requires high-level wet-lab mastery (in molecular biology filed). The successful candidate will not only produce cutting-edge arts in mRNA biosynthesis, LNP encapsulation but also running a lead role in small animal model experiments. In addition, require a skillful report on technical and grant reports.

Duties:

• mRNA Biosynthesis: include general reporter gen, such as EGFP mRNA, mCherry mRNA, FFLuc mRNA, and also include customized mRNA synthesis design and produce in different scale. 
• mRNA Purification:  the target gen production will be purified by using different LC technical.
• LNP encapsulation:   based on different formulation, manage LNP encapsulation across scales, from micro-pilot studies to >100 mL production.
• Culture and maintain cancer cell lines; assess mRNA-LNP cellular uptake, and gen transfection efficiency by plate reader and flow cytometer method;
• Advanced Molecular Validation: Perform and supervise PCR, qPCR, RT-PCR, and Western Blotting to ensure the integrity of RNA and successful protein expression.
• Complex In Vivo Modeling: Design and execute advanced surgical models (e.g., colonic liver metastases) and administer small animal via i.v., s.c., and i.p. routes to validate cancer vaccine efficacy. For instance, utilize IVIS Xenogen imaging/ Confocal fluorescence microscopy to track therapeutic response.
• Operational Strategy: Design service pricing strategies, manage client feedback loops, and maintain the facility's digital presence/website.
• Strategic Reporting & Governance: Preparation of project reports for facility running, summarizing project outcomes, facility throughput, and key performance metrics.

• Education: in Molecular Biology, and/or Immunology, and/or Bioengineering;
• Molecular & Purification Expertise: Expert proficiency in PCR/qPCR/Western Blot and advanced chromatography, specifically Ion-Pair HPLC;
• Surgical & In Vivo Skills: Minimum 1 year of experience in rodent microsurgery and the development of complex oncology models;
• RNA-LNP Mastery: Extensive experience in ionizable lipid screening, LNP characterization (DLS, Zeta potential), and lyophilization for long-term stability;
• Professional Alignment: independent work, excellent in communication with others with different background, and service-oriented attitude.
• Technical Writing Mastery: Demonstrated success in drafting technical proposal applications and comprehensive annual/quarterly facility reports;

Why join UHN?

In addition to working alongside some of the most talented and inspiring healthcare professionals in the world, UHN offers a wide range of benefits, programs and perks. It is the comprehensiveness of these offerings that makes it a differentiating factor, allowing you to find value where it matters most to you, now and throughout your career at UHN.

• Competitive offer packages
• Government organization and a member of the Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan (HOOPP https://hoopp.com/)
• Close access to Transit and UHN shuttle service
• A flexible work environment
• Opportunities for development and promotions within a large organization
• Additional perks (multiple corporate discounts including: travel, restaurants, parking, phone plans, auto insurance discounts, on-site gyms, etc.)

Current UHN employees must have successfully completed their probationary period, have a good employee record along with satisfactory attendance in accordance with UHN's attendance management program, to be eligible for consideration.

All applications must be submitted before the posting close date.

UHN uses email to communicate with selected candidates.  Please ensure you check your email regularly.

Please be advised that a Criminal Record Check may be required of the successful candidate. Should it be determined that any information provided by a candidate be misleading, inaccurate or incorrect, UHN reserves the right to discontinue with the consideration of their application.

UHN is an equal opportunity employer committed to an inclusive recruitment process and workplace. Requests for accommodation can be made at any stage of the recruitment process. Applicants need to make their requirements known.

We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.