We are looking for an enthusiastic Co-op Research Assistant to be part of a multidisciplinary Process Development team driving our Adrenal Program forward. In this role, you will take ownership of critical optimization projects focused on 3D cell aggregation, scaling up our culture systems, and onboarding functional bioassays. This is an exciting opportunity for you to work closely with a team of engineers, cell biologists, and preclinical experts to develop scalable cell-therapy platforms that could transform how we treat endocrine diseases. 

Please note: This role will close applications on July 13.   

Responsibilities 

• Optimizing 2D and 3D cell culture systems to improve cell viability and function.
• Onboarding and validating new assays supporting downstream, in vivo and histology pipelines.
• Evaluating 3D culture systems to generate high-quality aggregates, establishing a scalable and cost-effective method.
• Planning and executing experimental series semi-independently, including writing study plans, preparing resources, and collecting high-quality technical data.
• Compiling experimental findings into clear summaries, drafting standardized written protocols, and presenting results effectively to key stakeholders.
• Developing and implementing adrenal cell process improvements to enable clinical manufacturing. 
• Supporting routine cell culture operations, media preparation, and daily laboratory and administrative tasks reliably.
• Collaborating cross-functionally with team members and other departments to ensure seamless project integration.
• Performing human adrenal cell isolations to support the team in building robust cell biobanks. 

Education & Experience

• Education: You are a student enrolled in biomedical engineering, cell biology, biotechnology, chemical engineering, or similar programs.
• Cell Culture & Assay Experience: You have foundational hands-on experience with aseptic technique, maintaining 2D cell cultures (thawing, passaging, feeding), and running plate-based assays. Experience in 3D culture models, bioreactors/spinner flasks, luminescence assays, human cell isolation, and primary cell culture is highly beneficial.
• Proactive Planner: Demonstrated ability to semi-independently map out experiments, manage your time effectively, and prioritize tasks to meet project timelines.
• Effective Communicator: You have superior written and verbal communication skills. You can translate complex data into structured protocols and present scientific findings clearly to diverse teams.
• Collaborative & Reliable: You are a dependable team player who takes pride in experimental rigor, accurate documentation, and supporting the broader goals of a busy research environment.

The hiring range for this role is $3,750 - $4,000 CAD, monthly. Our ranges are based on market data. Offered salaries will be based on a combination of factors including, but not limited to, job-related knowledge, skills, education, and experience. For candidates who exceed role requirements, we are open to exploring above-range offers.