Research Assistant

About the Research Institute of the MUHC

Join a globally recognized biomedical research center dedicated to advancing patient-centered medical discoveries. Situated in Montreal, the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre (RI-MUHC) operates in affiliation with McGill University's Faculty of Medicine and is supported partly by the Fonds de recherche du Québec - Santé (FRQS).

Role Overview

The MyeliNeuroGene Research Laboratory, led by Dr. Genevieve Bernard, is seeking a full-time Research Assistant or Research Associate to contribute to studies on genetic white matter disorders and leukodystrophies. Under the direction of the principal investigator, you will engage in iPSC maintenance and differentiation into CNS cell types including oligodendrocytes and neurons, as well as development of 3D organoids and assembloids. Participation in grant writing activities is also expected.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and train student researchers within the lab.
• Provide supervision for the overall iPSC platform operations.
• Maintain cultures of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and their differentiated derivatives.
• Produce CRISPR-edited iPSC lines.
• Contribute to drafting and preparing grant applications.

Performance Expectations

• Maintain meticulous attention to detail in all lab activities.
• Manage tasks effectively within strict deadlines and resource constraints.
• Handle confidential information with discretion.
• Demonstrate both collaborative teamwork and independent work capabilities.

Qualifications and Experience

• Master's degree in biomedical science, neuroscience, molecular genetics, or related fields; PhD holders may be eligible for Research Associate roles.
• At least 2 years of relevant work experience.
• Advanced proficiency in spoken and written French is required.
• Fluent written and oral English skills due to frequent communication with international researchers and complex document preparation.
• Experience with RNA therapies.
• Mandatory expertise in culturing iPSCs, oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPC), oligodendrocytes, and other central nervous system cell types.
• Proficiency in CRISPR gene editing techniques on iPSC lines.
• Strong planning, organizational, and time management abilities.
• Excellent communication and networking skills.
• Prior experience supervising and training students and managing projects.

Additional Details

• Temporary full-time role with a 35-hour workweek.
• Work hours are Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
• Work location at Glen Site, 1001 Decarie Boulevard, Montreal.
• Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience.
• Applicants may include a cover letter attached with their resume.

Benefits

• Four weeks of vacation annually, increasing to five weeks after five years.
• Twelve paid leave days covering personal, sickness, and family-related absences.
• Thirteen statutory holidays paid per year.
• Modular group insurance plan including gender affirmation services.
• Access to telemedicine services.
• Participation in the RREGOP defined benefit government pension plan.
• Professional development and training programs.
• Onsite child care centers.
• Employee discounts on various services and products.
• Competitive monthly parking rates.
• Employee assistance and recognition programs.
• Flexible work options.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

The RI-MUHC values equity, diversity, and inclusion, encouraging applications from candidates from racialized groups, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, ethnic minorities, women, and 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals. Accommodations can be provided upon request during the application process.