
The McMaster Institute for Research on Aging is a research center at McMaster University focused on aging optimization. It pursues this goal through interdisciplinary teams that work with older adults and key stakeholders. The institute leverages platforms like the McMaster Optimal Aging Portal and collaborates with the Labarge Centre for Mobility in Aging. Its work spans biology and behavior, aging-related mobility, and health outcomes to reduce costs and improve well-being. The initiative aims to impact Canadian aging populations at scale through education, research collaboration, and public-facing resources.

The McMaster Institute for Research on Aging is a research center at McMaster University focused on aging optimization. It pursues this goal through interdisciplinary teams that work with older adults and key stakeholders. The institute leverages platforms like the McMaster Optimal Aging Portal and collaborates with the Labarge Centre for Mobility in Aging. Its work spans biology and behavior, aging-related mobility, and health outcomes to reduce costs and improve well-being. The initiative aims to impact Canadian aging populations at scale through education, research collaboration, and public-facing resources.
Regular/Temporary
Temporary
Job Title
RESEARCH ASSISTANT
Job ID
72752
Location
St. Joseph's Hospital
Open Date
11/14/2025
Job Type
Short Term Employee
Close Date
11/20/2025
Employee Group
Unifor Unit 1, Staff
Favorite Job
Department
Psychiatry
Salary Grade/Band
Grade 6
Salary Range
$22.94 - $36.83 (hourly)
Contract Duration
12.1 Months
Hours per Week
35
Posting Details
Schedule
Monday - Friday from 8:00am - 4:00pm
(35 Hours per week)
7 hours, including a 60 minute unpaid lunch
Education Level
Bachelor's degree in a relevant field of study.
Career Level
Requires 2 years of relevant experience.
Location
McMaster Innovation Park (MIP)
Anticipated Start Date
January 5, 2026
Union, JD
Unifor Unit 1, Local No. 5555; JD00592
Job Description
Unit Description:
Ranked as one of the world’s Top 100 universities, McMaster University is devoted to the cultivation of human potential, realized through our innovative educational programs, cutting-edge research, and the diverse students, faculty, staff and alumni who make up the McMaster family. Dedicated to creating a Brighter World, we recognize that our people are our most valuable resource. Those who join McMaster will find a community of talented individuals who are inspired by the university's commitment to embodying the values of integrity, quality, inclusiveness and teamwork.
Job Summary:
We are seeking a highly motivated and versatile individual to join our research team, contributing to both laboratory-based and behavioral research activities. The successful candidate will have demonstrated experience in wet lab techniques, including DNA extraction, as well as processing and assaying biological samples such as hair for cortisol analysis and saliva for telomere length measurement.
In addition to laboratory responsibilities, this position involves conducting telephone and in-person interviews with participants across the lifespan, including older adults. The role also includes assisting with behavioral data collection and coding, with particular emphasis on parent–child interactions. The ideal candidate will possess strong attention to detail, excellent organizational skills, and the ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research environment.
Purpose and Key Functions:
Supervision:
Requirements:
Assets:
How To Apply
To apply for this job, please submit your application online.
Employment Equity Statement
McMaster University is located on the traditional territories of the Haudenosaunee and Mississauga Nations and within the lands protected by the “Dish With One Spoon” wampum agreement.
The diversity of our workforce is at the core of our innovation and creativity and strengthens our research and teaching excellence. In keeping with its Statement on Building an Inclusive Community with a Shared Purpose, McMaster University strives to embody the values of respect, collaboration and diversity, and has a strong commitment to employment equity.
The University seeks qualified candidates who share our commitment to equity and inclusion, who will contribute to the diversification of ideas and perspectives, and especially welcomes applications from indigenous (First Nations, Métis or Inuit) peoples, members of racialized communities, persons with disabilities, women, and persons who identify as 2SLGBTQ+.
As part of McMaster’s commitment, all applicants are invited to complete a confidential Applicant Diversity Survey through the online application submission process. The Survey questionnaire requests voluntary self-identification in relation to equity-seeking groups that have historically faced and continue to face barriers in employment. Please refer to the Applicant Diversity Survey - Statement of Collection for additional information.
Job applicants requiring accommodation to participate in the hiring process should contact:
to communicate accommodation needs.
Vaccination Mandate - FHS
This position is located in a host hospital or other healthcare site that has an active vaccination mandate in place. Successful applicants will need to comply with these and any other health and safety measures necessary as part of their appointment.
Hybrid Work Language
To ensure an ongoing and vibrant University community that meets the needs of our students, staff and faculty and supports the University mission, ability to work on-site continues to be a requirement for most University positions. The University is supportive of exploring flexible work arrangements that effectively balance operational needs and employee interests.
Interview Experience
At McMaster University, we believe in a comprehensive and inclusive interview process. Our interview methods encompass a variety of approaches that allow our hiring teams to provide a flexible and accessible experience for engaging with our candidates. Throughout your recruitment process at McMaster, you may be requested to participate in a variety of formats, that may include in-person, virtual or recorded interviews. If you have any questions as you move through the hiring process, please reach out to talent@mcmaster.ca or the HR contact associated with your position of interest.