Research Technician I - Centre for Biodiversity Genomics - Collections Unit

Department: Centre for Biodiversity Genomics
This position is classified under the Grant and Trust Administrative & Technical Group

Temporary full-time from 09/07/2026 to 09/06/2027

Number of Positions: 2

If you are a current employee of the University of Guelph you must apply on the internal Career Page in order to be considered as an internal applicant.

Career Opportunities (sapsf.com) 

General Purpose

This position will take place within the Collections Unit of the Centre for Biodiversity Genomics. The Collections Unit is primarily responsible for the sourcing, digitization, and archiving of biological specimens, as well as preparing specimens for genetic analysis in the Genomics Unit (also known as the Canadian Centre for DNA Barcoding or CCDB).

Duties and Responsibilities

The position may involve a variety of tasks, including specimen data capture (entering information into an internal database), specimen preparation (e.g., pinning insects, separating specimens stored in fluid media, and sorting specimens by size and/or taxonomic group), tissue sampling (taking a small piece of tissue for DNA analysis), specimen organization and archiving, and general laboratory maintenance (e.g., sterilizing equipment and maintaining supplies).

The successful candidate should have good manual dexterity and be comfortable handling small and fragile insects. An ability to accurately identify insects to the order level or lower would be an asset. Due to the high level of data accuracy required for our projects, strong organizational skills and attention to detail are essential.

Experience with Microsoft Excel, Access, or other database systems is an asset. Experience working with natural history collections and/or conducting fieldwork is also considered an asset.

This position would be ideally suited to candidates interested in pursuing a career in biodiversity, entomology, natural history collections, or related fields.

Requirements

• Post-secondary education in entomology, invertebrate zoology, biology, or a related field is preferred.
• Ability to identify insects to the order level; knowledge of identification beyond the order level is an asset.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and spreadsheet-based data management.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Good manual dexterity and the ability to work carefully with small and fragile specimens.
• Ability to work effectively in a high-throughput, dynamic environment.

Employee Type: Temporary  

Position Number: 10900665 
Classification: Grant/ Trust fund position, Band  GTAT - Band A 
GTAT (Grant & Trust Administrative and Technical) Salary Grid

At the University of Guelph, fostering a culture of inclusion is an institutional imperative. The University invites and encourages applications from all qualified individuals, including from groups that are traditionally underrepresented in employment, who may contribute to further diversification of our Institution.

Posting Date: 08/20/2026 
Close Date: 08/31/2026