Canadian Nuclear Laboratories is bringing together the finest minds to form a diverse, vibrant and dynamic workforce culture energized by the innovative capacity of students, new graduates and mid-career professionals, underpinned by senior world renowned experts. We hire numerous students each semester from colleges and universities to support our research and perform other assignments. If you are looking for interesting and challenging work this Summer then keep reading, and if you meet the requirements of this role, apply today.
Department:Radiobiology & Health
Number of Positions: 1
Duration: 4 to 16 months (beginning in May - length depending on successful candidate)
Discipline: University program in any biology-centric domain (ex. Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Immunology or Bioinformatics)
Year of study: Open to students who have completed at least their 2nd year of study or higher
Location: Chalk River, ON
NOTICE
Students must submit a resume, cover letter, and copy of an up-to-date transcript by the posting close date of January 21, 2024 to ensure consideration for student employment.
The employment period generally runs from the beginning of May to the end of August (for a 4 month work term).
Security clearance eligibility required: Reliability Status with Site Access Security Clearance (SASC), which has a minimum requirement of 3 years of verifiable history in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, United States and/or the United Kingdom. CNL implements security screening in accordance with the Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat “Standard on Security Screening” and the “Policy on Government Security”.
Radiobiology & Health - Molecular Biology - Bystander Effect Student
At the Radiobiology and Health branch of CNL, we're not just studying the effects of low-dose radiation on living systems; we're unraveling mysteries that could redefine our understanding of radiation biology. We're on the hunt for an enthusiastic undergraduate or graduate student with a passion for life sciences, ready to dive deep into the enigma of radiation-induced Bystander Effects on health systems.
Ever since Dr. H. Nagasawa and Dr. John B. Little's ground-breaking discovery, the world has been captivated by the Bystander Effects of radiation. This phenomenon, where unirradiated cells show effects of radiation due to signals from their irradiated neighbors, has turned our understanding of radiation biology on its head. But the real question remains: What's driving this effect? Unraveling the exact molecular and biochemical events of these Bystander Effects is not just critical for understanding radiotherapy's benefits and potential long-term effects; it's the next frontier in radiation biology.
What you will be doing:
As a key member of our team, you'll be at the heart of experiments and reporting that aim to demystify the biological effects of radiation-induced bystander phenomena. From cell culturing to data interpretation, you'll be hands-on in pushing the boundaries of what we know.
- Conducting experiments both under supervision and independently, following detailed instructions.
- Utilizing advanced laboratory equipment and software for sample preparation and data analysis.
- Maintaining meticulous records of experiments and generating detailed reports using MS Office tools.
- Preparing essential chemical solutions and laboratory reagents.
- Engaging in collaborative discussions during staff meetings and training sessions.
- Educational Foundation: Have you completed at least a year in a Biology-centric university program such as biology, cell biology or Molecular Biology? If so, you're on the right track.
- Chemistry Know-How: A basic grasp of chemical solution preparation is essential.
- Biology & Bioinformatics Expertise: A theoretical grounding in cell biology, Molecular Biology, statistics, and bioinformatics will set you apart. If you're familiar with the research areas we've highlighted (even just some of them), that's a bonus. Hands-on experience? Even better. If you can navigate the statistical programming language R, you've got an edge.
- Analytical Acumen: We value sharp analytical and problem-solving skills. Can you communicate your findings and ideas effectively, both in writing and verbally? That's a must.
- Cell Culture Quick-Learner: The ability to swiftly pick up aseptic techniques related to human cell culture is crucial.
- Team Dynamics & Flexibility: We're looking for team players who can adapt to the ebb and flow of research demands. This might mean occasional overtime or a shift in work schedules.
- Lab Experience: Have you already spent time in a biology lab setting? That's a definite advantage.
- Handling reagents that may be chemical or biological hazards, according to proper safe laboratory practice
- Handling human-related biological samples, such as cells, blood, etc.
- Physical demands include the ability to remain in seated or standing positions for long periods of time for routine pipetting at the lab bench, computer desktops, or microscopes
- Training (e.g., laboratory and workplace health and safety, radiation protection) will be completed as required by the supervisor or management.
Are you in this field / program?
Dive into any biology-centric domain, be it Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Immunology, or Bioinformatics. What truly matters to us? Your burning passion and insatiable curiosity. Bring those, and you're already on the right path.
Why CNL?
Does working with a team across Canada to advance nuclear science and technology for a clean and secure world speak to you? We're reinventing ourselves to be the pace setters, so we can lead the charge in solving the problems that matter, like building the next generation of clean nuclear and hydrogen energy solutions, developing new and better-targeted cancer treatments, and continuing to lead the world in environmental remediation.
Do Our Priorities Resonate with You?
- Clean energy for today and tomorrow.
- Restore and protect the Environment.
- Contribute to the health of Canadians.
Location:
CNL’s Chalk River laboratory is nestled in the Ottawa Valley and affords our employees an area that is environmentally pristine with extensive forests, hills and numerous small lakes, all of which support a variety of wildlife typical to the southern edge of the Canadian Shield. Many surrounding towns, such as Pembroke, Petawawa and Deep River provide you with unparalleled outdoor adventures at your doorstep! In fact, Deep River was named as the fourth best place to live in Canada in a recent ranking by movingwaldo.com.
CNL is committed to providing an atmosphere free from barriers that promotes equity, diversity and inclusion in achieving our mission. CNL welcomes and celebrates employees, stakeholders and partners of all racial, cultural, and ethnic identities.
CNL also supports a workplace environment and a corporate culture that is built on our Core Values: Respect, Teamwork, Accountability, Safety, Integrity and Excellence which encourage equitable employment practices and career prospects inclusive of accommodations for all employees.
CNL is committed to being an equal-opportunity employer. If you require accommodation measures during any phase of the hiring process, please indicate via our ATS when applying. All information received in relation to accommodation requests will be kept confidential.
The Chalk River Laboratories site is located on the unceded and unsurrendered territory of the Algonquin Anishinaabe people. As an organization, CNL recognizes and appreciates their historic connection to this place. CNL also recognizes the contributions that First Nations, Métis, Inuit and other Indigenous Peoples have made, both in shaping and strengthening this community in particular, and this province and country as a whole.