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January
2006
 Job Title and General Description
Research Technologist, BC Cancer Agency
I work with FISH (fluorescence in situ hybridization) based
assays such as BAC-Array CGH and tissue microarrays. These
technologies, along with traditional cytogenetics, are used
to look for tiny changes in the genetic make up of cancers.
CGH (comparative
genomic hybridization) microarray technology is a relatively
new technique that allows a much higher resolution of detecting
amplifications and deletions. It is used mainly as a research
technique at the moment but is being introduced into clinical
use as the techniques become validated.
My job is very interesting and involves many different activities
in the laboratory. I use a specialized microscope/computer
set up to gather and analyze the information produced in the
microarray experiments.
What specific skills and qualities are
needed to do your job?
My job required me to be able to multi-task and adapt to the
changing requirements of the various techniques. It is critical
for me to be able to trouble shoot both the laboratory techniques
and the computer software. My job requires a good working
knowledge of various molecular biology databases to acquire
and interpret information. I need to have a broad range of
skills including both traditional cytogenetics and molecular
genetics.
What do you like most about your work?
I enjoy working in research as new ideas are being worked
out and tested. We can see the ideas through to discovery
in finding new genes and mutations involved in the evolutions
of various cancers. The information that we generate is used
to improve the accuracy of cancer diagnosis and management.
What don’t you like about your job?
I don’t like the let down if things don’t work
as we had hoped they would. It is just the nature of research
that some projects lead to a dead-end and the ideas or techniques
need to get reworked. This can be frustrating at times.
Where do you see your career going from
here?
I would like to become a team leader on a research project.
I hope to move up with the research group that I work with.
What is the range in salary that comes
with your job?
As an employee of the BC Cancer agency the salary for this
job ranges form $48,000- $66,000.
When did you know you wanted to work
in sciences?
When I was in Grade 11 and 12 I had a great biology teacher
that really inspired me.
What is your educational background?
Degrees? Specific courses?
I have a BSc from SFU in Cellular and Molecular Biology. I
also have a diploma from BCIT in Clinical Genetics Technology
that includes training in both traditional cytogenetics and
molecular genetics. With this training I am a registered laboratory
technologist with a specialty in clinical genetics.
What was your favorite course(s) and
why?
My favorite courses were Biology and Cell Biology at SFU.
What other hobbies and interests do you
have?
I enjoy playing field hockey, running, traveling and reading
novels.
Do you have any advice for young people
thinking about getting into your line of work?
Don’t be afraid to try something new. Try things and
see what fits you the best. When you find what you like, stick
with it!
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