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Laboratory Trainee Jobs in Toronto, ON (NOW HIRING)

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Laboratory Trainee information

What is a laboratory trainee?

Laboratory trainees are individuals who are in the early stages of learning how to work in a laboratory environment. They typically assist with basic tasks such as preparing samples, maintaining equipment, and following standard laboratory procedures under supervision. The goal is to gain practical experience and develop the necessary skills for a career in laboratory science. Laboratory trainees may be students, recent graduates, or individuals transitioning into laboratory work from other fields.

What types of tasks and responsibilities can a laboratory trainee expect during their initial months on the job?

As a Laboratory Trainee, you will typically start by learning and assisting with basic laboratory procedures such as sample preparation, equipment calibration, and maintaining accurate records. You’ll work closely with experienced technicians and scientists, supporting them in conducting experiments and following safety protocols. Over time, you will be gradually introduced to more complex tasks and given opportunities to take on independent work as your skills develop. This hands-on experience, combined with mentorship, helps trainees build a strong foundation for advancement within the laboratory environment.

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

To thrive as a Laboratory Trainee, you need a basic understanding of laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and usually a background in science or a related field. Familiarity with lab equipment, data entry systems, and adherence to quality control standards are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, eagerness to learn, and effective communication skills make a candidate stand out. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring accurate results, maintaining safety, and supporting efficient laboratory operations.

What is the difference between Laboratory Trainee vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLaboratory TraineeLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsTypically enrolled in or recently completed relevant education; may lack formal certificationUsually holds a diploma or certification in laboratory sciences
Work EnvironmentTraining setting, supervised, learning-focusedOperational laboratory environment, performing routine tests
Employer & Industry UsageInternships, training programs, entry-level positionsFull-time staff in healthcare, research, or industrial labs

In summary, a Laboratory Trainee is often a student or newcomer gaining hands-on experience under supervision, while a Laboratory Technician is a trained professional responsible for routine lab tasks. The trainee role emphasizes learning, whereas the technician role involves independent work with established skills.

How to become a laboratory trainee with no experience?

To become a laboratory trainee with no experience, focus on gaining basic knowledge of laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and relevant skills through online courses or certifications. Volunteering or assisting in related environments can also provide practical exposure and improve your chances of securing a trainee position.

How to get work experience in a laboratory?

To gain work experience as a laboratory trainee, seek internships, volunteer positions, or entry-level roles in laboratories to develop practical skills. Completing relevant coursework, certifications, and familiarizing yourself with laboratory equipment and safety protocols can also enhance your qualifications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Laboratory jobs in Toronto, ON?

The most popular types of Laboratory jobs in Toronto, ON are:

What cities near Toronto, ON are hiring for Laboratory Trainee jobs?

Cities near Toronto, ON with the most Laboratory Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Laboratory Trainee job openings in Toronto, ON as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Research Associate (Limited Term)

University of Toronto

Toronto, ON • On-site

CA$53K - CA$100K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Date Posted: 05/13/2026
Req ID:48113
Faculty/Division: Temerty Faculty of Medicine
Department: Department of Molecular Genetics
Campus: St. George (Downtown Toronto)
Existing Vacancy: Yes

Description:

OVERVIEW:

The Department of Molecular Genetics in the Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto invites applications for the position of Research Associate (Limited Term) to design and lead research projects in the area of microbiology, functional genomics, chemical genomics, and antimicrobial drug resistance. Specifically, the program will focus on the construction of comprehensive genomic mutant collections in the fungal pathogens Candida albicans and Candida auris, and the performance of functional genomic screens to identify genes important for fitness, virulence, and drug resistance.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Candidates require a Ph.D. and several years postdoctoral experience with demonstrated academic and research expertise in the field of mycology, genetics, genomics, and molecular biology. The incumbent will design and lead research pertaining to several projects in the lab focused on functional genomics, chemical genomics, fungal pathogenesis, and antimicrobial drug resistance. Extensive experience working with pathogenic fungi, including Candida albicans and Candida auris, is critical as is demonstrated experience with large-scale genetic mutant screens and mutant construction. Candidates must have experience with microbiology and molecular biology, including monitoring transcript levels, epitope tagging, and protein purification. Experience leading interdisciplinary work is critical, as is experience collaborating with structural biologists, pharmacologists, and chemists. Extensive experience mentoring undergraduate and graduate students is also critical. Candidates must have experience preparing manuscripts for submission to peer review publications/journals and assisting with preparing research proposals to be submitted to granting agencies. Candidates must have experience presenting findings at meetings and conferences. Candidates must have experience designing, planning, and executing experiments and research. Strong organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills are required, and candidates must be able to work positively with others and mentor trainees in a large collaborative laboratory. 

KEY DUTIES

  • Designing, planning, and executing research projects.
  • Designing and constructing mutants for functional genomic collections.
  • Performing assays that include but are not limited to: cloning, PCR, qRT-PCR, electrophoretic analysis, protein and enzyme assays, microbial transformations, drug resistance testing, screening mutant libraries, and functional and chemical genomic assays involving genome and barcode sequencing analysis.
  • Reading published papers relevant to the experiments being performed and adapting procedures accordingly.
  • Liaising with collaborators and assisting in the compilation, analysis and reporting of research findings to researchers within and outside of the program.
  • Assisting with preparing manuscripts for submission to peer review publications/journals.
  • Assisting with research proposals to be submitted to granting agencies.

Beyond these responsibilities, the individual may be expected to participate in research supervision of two or more students or other trainees. At all times, the individual is expected to support the overall research and training missions of the lab.

Please note: this is a 2 year term position.

Closing Date: 09/07/2026,11:59PM ET
Employee Group: Research Associate 
Personnel Subarea:Research Assoc
Appointment Type: Grant - Term 
Schedule: Full-Time
Pay Scale Group & Hiring Zone: R01 -- Research Associates (Limited Term): $53,520 - $100,350
Job Category: Research Administration & Teaching