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October
2004
 Job
title and General Description
Research Associate, Genetics & Drug Discovery
I work in the lab at Xenon Pharmaceuticals Inc. My job is
multifaceted including genetics techniques such as DNA extraction,
genotyping and sequencing, as well as biochemistry work in
drug assay development and screening. Most of my time is spent
working in the lab.
What specific skills and qualities are
needed to do your job?
My job requires flexibility and independence. I need to be
well organized as I have many tasks and my lab results must
be well documented. My job also requires me to be open to
learning new things.
What do you like most about your work?
The thing I love the most about my job is the excitement of
discovery. We are looking for genetic mutations that have
not be found before and studying potential drugs that we have
just created.
My job is always changing and there are many opportunities
to learn and expand my experience and expertise.
What don’t you like about your job?
At times the lab work can be very repetitious, especially
on large projects. The excitement always comes back after
the data is compiled and you can see what the next steps are
to find the answers you are looking for.
Where do you see your career going from
here?
I really enjoy it here and I can see myself growing into new
opportunities within the company. I always like to keep my
options open.
What is the range in salary that comes
with your job?
The range of salary varies widely within the industry, academic
and clinical labs depending on experience and level of responsibility.
Here at Xenon, our performance and salary are reviewed annually.
When did you know you wanted to work in
sciences?
In grade 12 I took all of my science courses. I found that
I really enjoyed the classes, especially the lab work. I have
always had an interest in genetics.
What is your educational background? Degrees?
Specific courses?
I have a B.Sc. with a specialty in cell biology and genetics
from UBC and a diploma in Clinical Genetics Technology from
BCIT. I have also taken an extended workshop in bioinformatics
and have acquired extensive computer experience.
What was your favorite course(s) and why?
My favorite course was Population Genetics at UBC. I found
it very interesting and I considered doing that as a career
as well.
What other hobbies and interests do you
have?
I bowl competitively. I also enjoy computer games, crafts
and scrap booking.
Do you have any advice for young people
thinking about getting into your line of work?
Always be open to new opportunities. You never know where
an opportunity my take you.
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