Laboratory Specialist - Faculty of Arts

Competition 1377

This competition is open to all applicants however; internal candidates and applicants who were former employees of the University of Alberta in the past 18 months will be given priority consideration before external candidates. Please log in to verify your internal candidate status.

This position is a part of the Non-Academic Staff Association (NASA).

This position offers a comprehensive benefits package which can be viewed at: Faculty & Staff Benefits.

Location - Work primarily takes place at North Campus, Edmonton. This role is in-person.

Working at the University of Alberta

The University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, Métis, Inuit and all FirstPeoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.

The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide.

Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people — from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. Learn more.

Working for the Faculty of Arts

The Faculty of Arts at the University of Alberta is a diverse, inclusive Faculty—a place for any individual to thrive or ideas to be explored within the social sciences, humanities, and fine arts disciplines. Whether through skilled artistic expression, breakthrough research, strong community partnerships, or a passionate dedication to teaching and learning, Arts faculty, staff, and students act as a catalyst for societal change.

For more information visit: https://www.ualberta.ca/en/arts/index.html

Position 

The Laboratory Specialist will report to the Faculty Service Officer in Archaeology, serving as the technical expert for laboratory operations within the Department of Anthropology. This dynamic role involves supporting faculty, undergraduate, and graduate students by overseeing lab facilities and contributing to innovative research in anthropology.

The core responsibility of this role is managing the Level II Biosafety Lab, where the Laboratory Specialist acts as the primary expert on lab safety, management, and best practices. This includes ensuring all safety protocols are followed, advising on lab maintenance, and providing strategic guidance to faculty and students on lab procedures. The role also includes extensive consultation with researchers to enable successful laboratory research, troubleshooting issues, and supporting the needs of ongoing projects.

Key Responsibilities:

Laboratory and Equipment Management:

• Oversee the full operation of the Department of Anthropology's research labs, including:
  • Level II Biosafety Lab: Provide expert support for isotopic analysis, zooarchaeology, forensics, and human bone/teeth research. Manage biohazard permits and oversee training on specialized equipment such as biological safety cabinets, fume hoods, capture hoods, and dissection apparatus.
  • Chemical Lab: Oversee operations of a fully equipped wet lab, including HF acid handling and fume hood operations for paleoenvironmental and isotopic studies.
  • Specialty Instrument Room: Ensure the proper use and maintenance of advanced instruments like the Picarro oxygen isotope analyzer, computerized micromill, freeze dryer, XRF analyzer, and water purification systems. Provide hands-on training as needed.

Laboratory and Research Design:

• Collaborate with Principal Investigators and graduate students to design and implement research labs, including developing standard operating procedures, training on lab methods, and ensuring adequate supply and inventory management.
• Provide laboratory support for both graduate and undergraduate students. 

Space Management:

• Manage and optimize research spaces in the Tory Building and South Academic Building.
• Work with department leadership to assess space allocation and ensure efficient use of laboratory facilities and budgeting efforts.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Work closely with faculty and students to promote a collaborative and enriching research environment.
• Provide guidance on laboratory best practices and work to enhance the overall research experience within the department.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Graduate degree in Anthropology or a related field. An undergraduate degree and substantial laboratory management experience may be considered.
• 3-5 years of experience in laboratory management.
• Proven service orientation and experience in training students.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience managing biohazard laboratories is preferred.
• Safety, emergency response, and other relevant certifications are an asset.