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Position Summary:
Under the direction of the immediate supervisor, performs duties in the field of thanatology such as autopsy and the embalming of cadavers. Removes and preserves anatomical structures. Participates in projects and experiments. Performs prosections. Selects and prepares exhibits. Acts as resource person, resolves problems and instructs others. Compiles data. Maintains equipment.

Major Duties and Responsibilities:
 

1. Specimen Care & Preparation

Prepare and maintain preservation solutions for cadaveric specimens.Ensure proper covering, labeling, and identification of cadavers at all times.Prepare embalming trays, instruments, and tubing.Accept and document donations, ensuring proper identification and storage.Organize and manage the specimen database, storage shelves, and workspaces.Maintain accurate inventory logs and documentation in the online inventory database system.

2. Prosection & Embalming

Perform high-quality embalming and arterial injection of human cadavers.Properly identify, classify, and store cadavers in the anatomy morgue.Prepare high-quality anatomical specimens for teaching, research, and assessment.Develop dissection plans for new prosections, including innovative dissection approaches for complex anatomical concepts.Optimize embalming procedures and preservation techniques.Monitor and prevent specimen dehydration, contamination, and mold growth regularly.

3. Cleaning, Inventory Management & Equipment Maintenance

Maintain and clean all rooms, equipment, and instruments.Dispose of regular and chemical waste safely.Monitor and restock lab supplies.Track, repair, and maintain anatomical specimens, bones, and teaching materials.Ensure proper maintenance and organization of lab displays and workspaces.Ensure the functionality of lab equipment and audio/visual tools.Monitor and maintain embalming machines, refrigeration units, and safety stations.Conduct daily fridge and freezer temperature checks, reporting issues promptly.

4. Academic Support

Assist faculty and teaching assistants in setting up and conducting anatomy courses.Prepare and organize cadavers and lab materials for teaching sessions.Set up and support anatomy lab exams and practical assessments.Provide guidance on the proper use and handling of anatomical materials.

5. Administrative Support

Assist in preparing letters, packages, and documentation.Support the organization of the annual memorial service.Maintain accurate records of cadaveric donations and anatomical specimens.Process supply orders and manage purchasing for lab equipment and chemicals.Assist in managing student access to anatomical resources.Collaborate on developing and updating procedural manuals and instructional materials SOP (Standard Operating Procedures).

6. Safety & Security Compliance

Enforce lab safety protocols and code of conduct for all students and staff.Conduct introductory safety briefings and training sessions when needed.Monitor adherence to health and safety regulations within the lab and morgue.Ensure secure access to the anatomy lab, morgue, and specimen storage areas.Work with security teams to manage access during workshops and special events.Comply with  the SOPs in place for hazardous materials handling, storage, and waste management.

7. Workshops & Stakeholder Collaboration

Support faculty in organizing anatomical workshops and specialized training sessions within the Division of Anatomical Sciences Facilities.Facilitate interactions between the Division of Anatomical Sciences, internal and external stakeholders as well as with the Campus Outaouais.Assist in maintaining relationships with funeral homes and coordinating body donation logistics.Ensure alignment of anatomical resources with educational and research needs.Assist in organizing laboratory learning events, including exams for anatomy courses.Identify opportunities for process improvements and anticipate resource needs.Recommend ongoing training for continuous development of the support technical team.  May be required to accept donations on evenings and weekends.  May be required to assist with communication with funeral homes.May be required to transport body donors to remote campus Outaouais and associated partners. The list of duties and responsibilities outlined above is representative and not a complete and detailed list of tasks which may be performed by an employee.

Working Conditions & Environment

Physical Effort: Requires standing, walking, and lifting for extended periods.Physical Environment: Exposure to chemicals such as formaldehyde and ethanol.Sensory Considerations: Frequent exposure to strong odors and cadaveric materials.Mental Stress: Deadline-driven tasks with occasional weekend/evening work required.

Other Qualifying Skills and/or Abilities:

Ensuring the integrity and professional reputation of the anatomy lab.Managing time-sensitive specimen requests and maintaining detailed inventory records.Upholding strict safety, ethical, and procedural standards.Building strong internal and external collaborations to enhance program operations.Valid driver's license, Classe 5.

As one of Montreal's Top Employers, here is what we offer:

Competitive benefits package (Health, Dental, Life Insurance) (if eligible)Defined contribution pension plan (with employer contribution up to 10%) (if eligible)Group Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) and Tax Free Savings Account (TFSA)Competitive vacation policyTwo (2) personal daysTwo (2) floating holidaysNine (9) "Summer Fridays" - paid days off between the St-Jean Baptiste holiday and Labour DayPaid time off over the December holiday periodTuition waiver for regular employees and their dependentsUp to two (2) days of remote work per week where the position permits

Before applying, please note that to work at McGill University, you must be both authorized to work in Canada and willing to work in the province of Quebec at the campus where the position is based / located.

Knowledge of English: McGill University is an English-language university where day to day duties may require English communication both verbally and in writing. The level of English required for this position has been assessed at a level 3 on a scale of 0-4.

For a definition of our language proficiency levels, please click here.

Minimum Education and Experience:

DEC III - Medical Laboratory Technology 4 Years Related Experience /

Hourly Salary:

(MUNACA Level H) $33.05 - $40.97

Hours per Week:

35 (Full time)

Supervisor:

Associate Professor (Teaching)

Position End Date (If applicable):

2026-08-24

Deadline to Apply:

2025-08-31

McGill University hires on the basis of merit and is strongly committed to equity and diversity within its community. We welcome applications from racialized persons/visible minorities, women, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, ethnic minorities, and persons of minority sexual orientations and gender identities, as well as from all qualified candidates with the skills and knowledge to productively engage with diverse communities. McGill implements an employment equity program and encourages members of designated groups to self-identify. Persons with disabilities who anticipate needing accommodations for any part of the application process may contact, in confidence, accessibilityrequest.hr@mcgill.ca.