Research Assistant 2

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Under the direction of the Metabolomics Platform Manager, the Mass Spectrometry Research Assistant supports high-throughput metabolomics and lipidomics workflows within the MS platform. The incumbent is responsible for executing analytical procedures, operating LC-MS/MS and GC-MS/MS instrumentation and performing sample preparation for a variety of research projects. The Research Assistant also contributes to the maintenance of SOPs, method development activities, and overall laboratory organization to ensure high-quality, efficient, and compliant operations.

Instrument Operation & Sample Processing

• Operate LC-MS/MS and GC-MS/MS instruments for metabolomics and lipidomics according to established SOPs.
• Operate automated liquid-handling systems for high-throughput sample preparation.
• Prepare and process biological specimens for metabolite and lipid extraction, derivatization, and analysis following strict SOPs.
• Perform extractions of biological and biohazardous materials (BSL2/2+) in accordance with biosafety regulations.
• Prepare calibration standards, reagent solutions, and quality-control materials.

Maintenance & Laboratory Support

• Perform routine minor maintenance, troubleshooting, and performance checks on LC-MS instruments.
• Operate other laboratory equipment as required and maintain a clean, safe, and well-organized laboratory environment.
• Maintain inventory of consumables, reagents, and standards; assist with procurement of supplies.
 

Data Acquisition, Analysis & Reporting

• Acquire, compile, and organize data generated from LC-MS/MS and GC-MS/MS analyses.
• Use specialized software tools to process, analyze, and interpret mass spectrometry data.
• Prepare reports on project progress, sample status, instrument utilization, and platform productivity.
• Compile statistics and provide documentation required for reporting to funding agencies.
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Documentation, Method Development & Administrative Support

• Assist in maintaining and updating SOPs, user guides, and data-collection/analysis procedures.
• Contribute to the development, optimization, and validation of new analytical methods and sample-extraction protocols under guidance from the MS Manager.
• Support cost-recovery and billing processes for platform services.
• Contribute to grant proposals, progress reports, scientific manuscripts, and other research-related documents.

Education/Experience:

• M.Sc. in Chemistry or related field.
•  Minimum one year of direct experience with high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and mass spectrometry (MS).

Other Qualifications:

• To succeed in this role, the incumbent should possess the following qualifications:
• Experience with automated liquid-handling systems is an asset.

• Experience with laboratory information management systems (LIMS).
• Familiarity with QA/QC workflows in analytical chemistry.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint; experience with R or other analytical and/or statistical software is an asset.
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to work rigorously, independently, and with excellent observational skills.
• Demonstrated ability to learn new techniques and technologies quickly.
• Excellent communication and scientific writing skills in English; French proficiency is an asset.

Hourly Salary:

$31.44

Hours per Week:

35 (Full time)

Location:

Penfield 740

Supervisor:

Academic Associate

Position Start Date:

2026-01-29

Position End Date:

2027-01-31

Deadline to Apply:

2026-02-08

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].