Biospecimen Research Technician II

INTERNAL APPLICATIONS ONLY

About OICR

OICR is Ontario’s cancer research institute. We bring together people from across the province and around the world to improve the lives of everyone affected by cancer. We take on the biggest challenges in cancer research and deliver real-world solutions to find cancer earlier and treat it more effectively. We are committed to helping people living with cancer, as well as future generations, live longer and healthier lives.

Launched in December 2005, OICR is an independent institute funded by the Government of Ontario through the Ministry of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security.

Position Details

Position:   Biospecimen Research Technician II

Location:   MaRS Centre, Toronto

Department:   Tissue Portal, Diagnostic Development

Reports To:  Senior Project Manager

Hiring Range:  $56,000 - $62,700, commensurate with experience; total compensation includes a competitive benefits plan, plus a defined benefit pension plan (HOOPP)

Hours:   35 hours/week

Job Type:   On-site

Status:   Full-time, Permanent

Position Summary

The Ontario Institute for Cancer Research (OICR) is seeking to fill an existing position as a Biospecimen Research Technician II to meaningfully contribute to the study of cancer by providing high quality histology, biobanking and nucleic acid extraction assistance. This individual will work as part of Diagnostic Development’s Tissue Portal, OICR’s centralized facility for tissue sample processing. They will use their relevant training in histology and molecular biology to assist the development of personalized medicine approaches to maximize the chances of positive outcomes for those experiencing cancer.

Position Responsibilities

The Biospecimen Research Technician II will contribute to various projects within Diagnostic Development’s Tissue Portal. This will include sample accessioning, histology of frozen and formalin-fixed paraffin embedded human tissues, manual and high-throughput extraction of DNA/RNA from human tissues (fresh frozen, FFPE and blood), assessment of DNA/RNA quantity/quality, and sample distribution. They will be expected to maintain accurate and complete records within organizational databases and be competent in professional written and verbal communications.

The Biospecimen Research Technician II will be required to perform clinical workflows based on standard operating procedures (SOPs) and follow defined-quality control/assurance instructions to comply with good clinical laboratory practice (GCLP) and additional laboratory accreditations (CAP; ACD; CLIA). They will adhere to specified turn-around times, precisely track sample lifecycles and solve discrepancies with external requisitioners promptly. They are expected to routinely perform a variety of nucleic acid extraction protocols at a high-quality standard for different sample inputs, including but not limited to fresh frozen tissue, FFPE tissue, blood and cell pellets.

The Biospecimen Research Technician II will also contribute to research project requests, following existing protocols and in collaboration with external researchers on multiple projects. They will routinely perform high-throughput quality assessments and assist with protocol optimization. They are expected to plan their schedule effectively to enable efficient workflows, provide routine reports to their management and implement new SOPs as necessary.

The Biospecimen Research Technician II will be expected to professionally interact with external collaborators, identify improvements to laboratory procedures and lab functions, update SOPs and clearly communicate assay results. They will apply advanced technical knowledge, time management principles and organizational skills to perform the duties outlined above.

Position Requirements

Completion of a relevant undergraduate degree or recognized equivalent

Experience in an accredited laboratory environment

Recent experience with manual and semi-automated nucleic acid extraction of FFPE, FF and blood samples

Recent experience with microtomy

Versatility in managing high sample volumes while maintaining accuracy across multiple laboratory protocols

Experience performing sample accessioning using a laboratory information management system

Exceptional attention to detail, including keeping comprehensive records

Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to analyze issues and implement practical solutions

Ability to manage priorities effectively with minimal supervision

Flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic work environment

Proactive and accountable, with a constructive approach to feedback and team work

Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Developed client service skills

For more information about OICR, please visit the website at www.oicr.on.ca.

To learn more about working at OICR, visit our career page.

POSTED DATE:         March 23, 2026

CLOSING DATE:       March 27, 2026 at 4:00 p.m.

OICR is committed to fostering a climate of equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility. This commitment is central to, and mutually supportive of, our research excellence mandate. We welcome and respect the diversity of all members of our community and we support an inclusive culture for all. We welcome all applicants, and encourage applications from racialized persons, Indigenous Peoples, women, persons with disabilities, LGBTQ2S persons, and others who may contribute to furthering a diversity of ideas within our community. OICR is committed to fair assessment of a candidate’s abilities, and consideration for diversity of thought, method, and experience. Providing an accessible workplace and recruitment process is important to us, as described in our Accessibility Plan (https://oicr.on.ca/accessibility/).  Should you require accommodation during any stage in the recruitment process, please complete the form at the bottom of page https://oicr.on.ca/careers/. Information received related to accommodation will be handled confidentially.  

OICR hiring managers may use approved Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to assist with an initial screening or assessment of applications, and selection of applicants in accordance with OICR’s privacy policies.  Personal information associated with any job application will not be shared with or retained by any third party for the purpose of training an AI model.  Hiring managers shall determine which applications proceed through the recruitment process.

Resume Format: If you elect to apply, please click on the “Apply for this Job” button.  You will be required to enter contact details, and to attach your resume to your application. Please attach your resume as a .pdf or .doc file.

The Ontario Institute for Cancer Research thanks all applicants. However, only those under consideration will be contacted.