Research Assistant 2

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The Kamen Lab in the Department of Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, is seeking a Research Assistant 2 to support ongoing research activities in vaccine bioprocessing.

Position Summary:

The RA 2 will play a central role in contributing, monitoring and documenting key deliverable of the funded RNA Cooperative initiative.

The position will supports scientific, technical, training, and data management activities in mRNA bioprocessing and facilitates collaboration with McGill-D2R platforms and international partners from low and medium income countries.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives in interdisciplinary environments involving bioprocessing intensification and digitalization, wet-lab research, vaccine development, and analytical tools, and global health capacity building

Main Responsibilities:

• Conduct research projects using established protocols, processes, and procedures in mRNA bioprocessing and vaccine-related studies
• Assist in the design, execution, and optimization of laboratory experiments relating to manufacturing of mRNA and analytical technology, including data collection, analysis, and documentation.
• Recommend and implement improvements to experimental methods, data analysis workflows, and research processes.
• Contribute to the preparation of scientific reports, manuscripts on mRNA technology
• Implement and maintain the integrated project plan (Gantt chart, milestones, dependencies). Tracking and reporting on progress towards milestones.
• Organize communication between technical teams (computational, QC, formulation, bioprocessing) and Core members teams of the mRNA cooperative.
• Ensure timely delivery of SOPs, training materials, and documentation meeting Global Access compliance.
• Provide technical guidance and training to junior research staff

Qualifications:

• M.Sc. or M.Eng in biological engineering or equivalent 
• Experience in bioprocessing and manufacturing of biologics
• Knowledge of mRNA technology
• Experience in project management is an asset
• Excellent command of English language, French is an asset

Expected start date: Feb 23 2026

Duration: one year with possibility of renewal

Hourly Rate: $31.44

Before applying, please note that to work at McGill University, you must be both authorized to work in Canada and willing to work in the province of Quebec at the campus where the position is based / located.

McGill University is an English-language university where most teaching and research activities are conducted in the English language, thereby requiring English communication both verbally and in writing.

Hourly Salary:

$31.44

Hours per Week:

35 (Full time)

Location:

McConnell Eng. Bldg.

Supervisor:

Professor

Position Start Date:

2026-02-23

Position End Date:

2027-02-27

Deadline to Apply:

2026-02-15

This position is covered by the Association of McGill University Research Employees (AMURE) collective agreement.

McGill University hires on the basis of merit and is strongly committed to equity and diversity within its community. We welcome applications from racialized persons/visible minorities, women, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, ethnic minorities, and persons of minority sexual orientations and gender identities, as well as from all qualified candidates with the skills and knowledge to productively engage with diverse communities. McGill implements an employment equity program and encourages members of designated groups to self-identify. Persons with disabilities who anticipate needing accommodations for any part of the application process may contact, in confidence, [email protected].