The Sunnybrook Biobank is an institution-wide, centralized biobank. The Biobank team collects and stores biological samples for future research purposes, and supports sample processing for clinical trials across the organization and we are aiming to further expand. We are looking to recruit two biobank technicians to lead processing and storing of biospecimens, maintaining the inventory and database, and contributing to research collaborations and streamlining laboratory workflow and quality control practices. Working under the direction of the Biobank Manager and Coordinator, the biobank technician applies general laboratory knowledge and skills to perform routine, standardized processing techniques within the scope of daily biobank operations.
General
- Maintains a focus on providing customer-centered services for stakeholders such as Study PIs, Collaborators, and Industry Sponsors
- Adheres to safe laboratory practices in accordance with laboratory and organizational guidelines
- Maintains good working relations with staff at all levels
- Performs technical responsibilities in a timely manner
- Complies with organizational expectations for conduct and demonstrates the core values of Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre
- Seeks guidance from senior/supervisory level staff for any activities not fully understood
- Seeks guidance from management where potential for harm to self or others is perceived
Technical (85%)
- Handles and processes biological samples including blood, urine, bone marrow, cerebrospinal fluid and tissue in compliance with standard operating procedures (SOPs) and safety protocols
- Maintains accurate and detailed records of all laboratory activities
- Recognizes the importance of confidentiality of information in daily practice
- Prepares, labels, and stores specimens according to guidelines and standards for biobanking and clinical trial activities
- Prepares specimens and materials for distribution, coordinates with courier for delivery/drop-off
- Transports laboratory supplies and specimens within the facility, as needed
- Identifies and documents specimens/requisitions with deficiencies, or requiring rejection. Initiates notifications and follow-up procedures to resolve, where required
- Labels and logs samples accurately to ensure proper tracking and identification throughout the processing workflow
- Handles and disposes of biohazardous materials following established guidelines
- Participates in quality control, validation and calibration activities
- Assists in the development and optimization of standard operating procedures
- Assists in conducting routine monitoring, maintenance and calibration of laboratory equipment
- Prepares reagents, solutions, tissues and culture media as needed
- Maintains laboratory supplies inventory as appropriate
- Assists in instruction and training of new employees and students
- Trouble shoots and resolves laboratory equipment errors as appropriate
- Maintains clean, organized work areas for activities performed
- Communicates effectively with team members and supervisors regarding sample processing status, issues, and improvements
- Participates in emergency duties or other duties scheduled outside regular hours as required by the demands of the service
Patient Consenting (5%)
- Conducts screening of potential study participants to determine eligibility and utilizes established criteria to flag eligible participants for the consent process
- Conducts detailed consent discussions with participants, following SOPs to ensure consistency and compliance
- Addresses and effectively answers all participant questions to ensure their understanding and comfort with the consent process. Refers any questions that cannot be answered to the study principal investigator(s)
- Communicates consent status and any relevant updates to the team and relevant study team members
- Ensures all patient consenting activities comply with regulatory and institutional guidelines
- Participates in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance the consenting process, ensuring it remains efficient and effective
Other Duties (5%)
- Verifies and reviews services provided to clinical trials to ensure accuracy and completeness
- Assists with the billing of services rendered to internal/external clients
- Assists in the assessment of incoming service requests for sample processing to evaluate the specific requirements and scope of each request, including sample types, processing methods, and timelines
Research Support (5%)
- Assists in the execution of experiments and data collection according to established protocols
- Conducts literature reviews, data collection, and analysis to support ongoing studies
- Assists in preparation of progress reports and documentation for grant-funded projects
- Participates in team meetings and contributes to the development of new research ideas
- Reviews protocols and laboratory manuals for any new service agreements, and drafts the necessary laboratory manual for the requested service
Qualifications:
§ Honours B.Sc in a life sciences related discipline – required
§ M.Sc - preferred
§ Minimum of 3-5 years of relevant laboratory experience - required
§ Experience in conducting chart reviews and database management, work experience with data collection and management software such as REDCap - preferred
§ Experience in reviewing Clinical trials study protocols and lab manuals - preferred
§ Demonstrated proficiency in MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) - required
§ Familiar with Research Ethics Board (REB) submissions including study protocol ,amendments, annual renewals and protocol deviations - preferred
§ Ability to communicate effectively, Prioritize workload and work effectively under in a fast paced environment
§ Ability to work well both independently and collaboratively within a team
- Strong interpersonal, time management and organizational skills
Certifications:
Canada GCP, Health Canada Division 5, TCPS2 (or willingness to obtain)