Please meet Laboratory Technician, Steve Chand!
Behind all research are dedicated, talented, and passionate individuals and teams who are fundamental in the advancement of women’s health research. Today we are pulling back the curtain and highlighting Steve Chand, the new Laboratory Technician at the WHRI Skidmore Goodman Research Wet Laboratory.
Steve brings 23 years of experience to this role, with a background in cell biology and genetics from the University of British Columbia. He works closely with WHRI Assistant Director Dr. Paul Yong and his team. Additionally, Steve serves as a Genome Sciences Technologist at the BC Cancer Research Institute’s Genome Science Centre.
The Skidmore-Goodman Research Wet Lab
The WHRI Skidmore Goodman Lab at BC Women’s Hospital + Health Centre is one of the WHRI Research facilities that are available to WHRI members. The WHRI Skidmore Goodman Lab includes equipment for services such as tissue processing, cell culture, real-time PCR ELISA, western blot, bright field and fluorescence imaging. The WHRI Skidmore Goodman Lab offers researchers the opportunity to use specialized equipment and dedicated space to research critical areas such as endometriosis.
What is a Wet Laboratory?
Wet labs, unlike dry labs, are designed for biological and chemical research – essentially, anything that involves liquids. Building wet labs is typically more challenging due to the need for specialized infrastructure such as advanced plumbing and HVAC systems.
Professional Specialties + Role
Steve is skilled in complex molecular biology techniques such as PCR, qPCR, and cloning. He ensures compliance with laboratory safety regulations, maintains accurate records, and supports the processing, storing, and shipping of samples for biobanking. Additionally, he assists in the operation of the cell culture laboratory, orders supplies, maintains equipment warranties, and supports students and staff with project finances.
Steve’s contributions extend beyond the lab room. He develops operating procedures, recommends workflow improvements, oversees project progress, and participates in complex research activities. He provides instruction and training in specialized techniques and equipment, researches new technologies and systems, writes reports, and assists in writing ethics and grant applications.
Inspiring Work in Women’s Health Research
Steve hopes his work can positively shape health outcomes for women.
"I have a propensity and passion for science and want to make a significant difference in people’s lives from behind the scenes".
When asked about his main responsibilities, Steve highlights “designing, modifying, and performing complex experiments and conducting analysis and interpretation in the field of endometriosis, neurogenesis, and somatic mutations” as his primary research focuses.
Steve shares that he sees his work as instrumental in promoting “new discoveries to benefit the health of women”. The work of this WHRI Skidmore Goodman Lab can catalyze larger-scale research and truly work towards improved health for women.
Staying Motivated and Beyond the Lab
Steve stays motivated by reminding himself that every step forward he takes in his work in research is important and serves a purpose. Outside of work, he enjoys playing sports like golf and basketball, hiking, biking, long walks, going to the gym, watching movies, and is a huge Vancouver Canucks fan!
Thank You to our Partners
We thank the Skidmore family, BC Women’s Health Foundation, and BC Women’s Hospital + Health Centre for their generous support in making this laboratory a space dedicated to women’s health research.
Connect with Steve and WHRI Facilities today!
Connect with Steve Chand to welcome him to the WHRI and inquire about the WHRI Skidmore Goodman Lab facility.
Explore the lab and its services, and email Steve at steve.chand@cw.bc.ca with any questions or inquiries.