ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Lab Associate Jobs in Edmonton, AB (NOW HIRING)

University of Alberta

Research Associate

Edmonton, AB

CA$47K - CA$59K/yr

The Research Associate (RA) will be working in the Department of Physiology. In consultation with ... The major focus of the Leslie lab research is the biotransformation and transport of the ...

All JobsLab Associate JobsLab Associate Jobs in Edmonton, AB

Lab Associate information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lab Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lab Associate, you need a solid understanding of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and typically a degree in a science-related field. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), standard lab equipment, and relevant safety certifications is often required. Strong organizational skills, teamwork, and effective communication set outstanding candidates apart in this role. These skills ensure accurate data collection, safe lab practices, and efficient support for scientific research or clinical testing.

How much does a lab assistant earn?

Lab assistants typically earn between $25,000 and $45,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the specific industry or laboratory setting. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries.

What are Lab Associates?

Lab Associates are professionals who assist in the daily operations of laboratories by performing tasks such as preparing samples, conducting basic experiments, maintaining equipment, and recording data. They typically work under the supervision of scientists or lab managers and help ensure that laboratory procedures are followed safely and accurately. Lab Associates play a crucial role in supporting research and development, quality control, or diagnostic testing in fields like healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and academia. Their responsibilities may vary depending on the specific lab setting and industry.

Do you need qualifications to be a lab assistant?

Lab associates typically need at least a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring postsecondary education or relevant certifications. Strong attention to detail, basic laboratory skills, and familiarity with lab equipment are also important for the role.

What is the difference between Lab Associate vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLab AssociateLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate degree; certifications varyAssociate degree or relevant certification; similar educational background
Work EnvironmentHospitals, research labs, clinicsMedical labs, research facilities, industrial labs
Job ResponsibilitiesSample collection, data entry, basic testingPerforming tests, maintaining equipment, recording results
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare, research, biotechMedical, industrial, research sectors

Both Lab Associates and Laboratory Technicians work in similar environments and often share educational requirements. The main difference lies in specific job duties, with Laboratory Technicians typically performing more complex tests and equipment maintenance. Understanding these distinctions can help job seekers identify the right role for their skills and career goals.

What is the highest paid lab technician?

The highest paid lab technicians are often those with specialized skills, advanced certifications, or experience in high-demand fields such as pharmaceutical or clinical research laboratories. Salaries can reach over $70,000 annually, depending on location, industry, and level of expertise. Senior or supervisory roles typically offer higher compensation.

What are some typical challenges a Lab Associate might face during day-to-day work, and how can they be addressed?

Lab Associates often encounter challenges such as managing multiple experiments simultaneously, ensuring precise documentation, and maintaining equipment. Staying organized by keeping detailed lab notes and using lab management software can help streamline workflow. Clear communication with team members and supervisors is vital to address any issues promptly and maintain a safe, efficient laboratory environment. Regularly scheduled equipment checks and proactive troubleshooting also contribute to smoother operations.

What do lab associates do?

Lab associates perform tasks such as preparing samples, conducting experiments, recording data, and maintaining laboratory equipment. They often work under supervision in research or clinical labs and may need knowledge of safety protocols and laboratory techniques.
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Edmonton, AB? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Edmonton, AB are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Associate jobs in Edmonton, AB look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Associate jobs in Edmonton, AB are:
Lab Associate jobs near you

Research Associate

University of Alberta

Edmonton, AB

CA$47K - CA$59K/yr

Part-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

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

This position has an initial appointment of 8 months.

Location - This role is in-person at North Campus, Edmonton.

The Research Associate (RA) will be working in the Department of Physiology. In consultation with the Principal Investigator, the RA will be involved in the oversight of day to day functioning of the laboratory. The laboratory is interested in understanding the involvement of membrane transporter proteins and conjugating enzymes in detoxification. The major focus of the Leslie lab research is the biotransformation and transport of the environmental human carcinogen arsenic.

The University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, Metis, 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.

At the University of Alberta, we are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates. If you require accommodations to participate in the interview process, please let us know at the time of booking your interview and we will make every effort to accommodate your needs.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.

All University employees have a responsibility to foster a workplace that prioritizes safety in all its forms-physical, cultural, and psychological. This is achieved by promoting a safe environment, adhering to all safety laws, policies and procedures, completing all required safety training, identifying hazards and implementing controls, reporting incidents, and contributing to a culture of belonging and respect, while endeavoring to ensure that all colleagues feel valued and safe to express their thoughts, perspectives and concerns.

The University of Alberta is committed to creating a university community where everyone feels valued, barriers to success are removed, and thriving connections are fostered. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women, First Nations, Metis and Inuit persons, members of visible minority groups, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression, and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and the University to apply.

L'Universite de l'Alberta s'engage a creer une communaute universitaire ou chaque personne se sent valorisee, ou les obstacles a la reussite sont elimines et ou des connexions enrichissantes peuvent se developper. Nous accueillons les demandes de toutes les personnes qualifiees. Nous encourageons les femmes; Premieres nations, Metis et Inuits; membres des groupes minoritaires visibles; personnes handicapees; personnes de toute orientation sexuelle ou identite et expression de genre; et toutes les personnes qui peuvent contribuer a la diversification des idees et a l'universite a postuler.
The Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry is one of the world's top academic health science centres. With 21 departments, multiple research institutes and centres, and a focus on excellence in education, research, and clinical care, the faculty trains outstanding medical and dental professionals and drives global health innovation in collaboration with partners across sectors.
  • MSc and strong experience in lab management; a PhD is preferred. 
  • The candidate must have extensive experience with mammalian cell culture (including stable cell lines and long-term cultures), radioactive use, molecular biology, biochemical techniques, and membrane proteins.
  • Experience with primary hepatocytes and hepatic cell lines would be an asset. 
  • Must have outstanding communication skills (oral and written) and interpersonal skills.
  • Must have experience working with undergraduate and graduate students in a research lab setting.

Application Instructions

Click "Apply Now" to submit your resume and cover letter. Review of applications will begin on July 22, 2026 and continue until the position has been filled.

This position offers a salary range of $47,599 to $59,504. This position is not eligible for benefits.

The terms and conditions of this appointment are governed by Schedule E of the Collective Agreement between the Board of Governors of the University of Alberta and the Association of the Academic Staff of the University of Alberta. 

  • Oversight of the day-to-day functioning of the laboratory.
  • Design complex experiments, read literature, and contribute to writing papers and grants. 
  • Will train other lab members in techniques such as mammalian cell culture (transient and stable transfections and long-term cell cultures), biochemical and molecular techniques (e.g., western blots, immunostaining, protein assays, agarose gels, PCR, site-directed mutagenesis), microbiology (bacterial cultures for plasmid isolation), and radioactive transport assays. 
  • Investigate how the dietary trace element selenium influences arsenic hepatic and erythrocyte transport pathways. 

Apply