Cancer remains one of the leading causes of mortality and morbidity worldwide, despite the growing number of therapeutic regimens. Radiopharmaceutical therapy (RPT) has emerged as an attractive treatment modality for disseminated disease. By matching a pharmacophore with the appropriate radionuclide, ionizing radiation can be delivered to cancer cells for tumoricidal effects. This approach has the advantages of being targeted, predictable, and well-tolerated. RPT is paired with a companion diagnostic that is used for patient stratification and treatment monitoring. This theranostic (Therapeutic + Diagnostic) approach has been applied successfully to thyroid cancer, neuroblastoma, pheochromocytoma, neuroendocrine tumors, and prostate cancer. There is a need to develop new theranostic agents to treat neoplastic diseases for which treatment options are limited.

Our research group is interested in biomarker discovery and validation, drug discovery, bioengineering, radiopharmaceutical development, and clinical translation. Working with molecular biologists, radiochemists, medical physicists, nuclear technologists, and clinician scientists, we evaluate different combinations of radioisotopes (e.g., PET, SPECT, auger, beta, and alpha) and targeting vectors (e.g., antibodies, antibody mimetics, peptides, and small molecules) to better visualize and/or treat cancers.

Members

Faculty/Leaders

Staff

Natalie Yee

Research Assistant

Students/Trainees

Emily England

Graduate Student

Simranjeet Kaur

Graduate Student

Steph Osten

Graduate Student

Open Positions

POSTDOCTORAL FELLOW

Lau Lab

Job Summary:

We are seeking two Postdoctoral Fellows to join our research groups at the BC Cancer Research Institute to develop new radiopharmaceuticals to improve the diagnosis and treatment of hematological and solid malignancies. The selected candidate(s) will contribute to the development of antibody, peptide, or inhibitor-based radiopharmaceuticals. This position offers an excellent opportunity for interaction in a multidisciplinary environment at the interface between radiology, oncology, pharmacology, and medical chemistry. 

Preference will be given to applicants with a track record in radiopharmaceutical research. This is a fully funded 2-year position with opportunities for renewal. The postdoctoral fellow positions will be under the supervision of Dr. Joseph Lau and/or Dr. Francois Benard.

Location: Vancouver, BC Canada (on-site)

Responsibilities: 

  • Synthesis and evaluation of novel theranostics for cancer imaging and treatment.
  • Design and construct diverse peptide libraries for screening against cancer-specific targets.
  • Optimize protocols for high-throughput screening and selection of peptides.
  • Radiolabeling of antibodies, antibody fragments, peptides, and small molecule inhibitors with isotopes, including but not limited to 89Zr, 64Cu, 68Ga, 44Sc, 18F, 155Tb, 99mTc, 111In, 177Lu and 225Ac. Training will be provided as needed.
  • Establish in vivo cancer models including patient-derived xenograft models for PET/SPECT imaging and therapy studies. Training will be provided as needed.
  • Record and analyze experimental data accurately and efficiently, maintaining detailed records and documentation.
  • Assist in the development and optimization of new testing methods and procedures.
  • Training and supervision of graduate students and/or research assistants.
  • Adhere to safety protocols and guidelines at all times, including proper handling and disposal of hazardous materials.

Qualifications: 

  • The qualified candidate will have a doctorate degree in a relevant discipline (i.e., Chemistry, Radiochemistry, Biochemistry, or Pharmacology, etc.). Minimum of four years of related experience with a strong research publication record.
  • Expertise in peptide library design and construction, including solid-phase peptide synthesis and display technologies (e.g., phage display, mRNA display) is preferred.
  • Prior experience with molecular docking is preferred.
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Effective communication and teamwork abilities.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and prioritize tasks effectively.
  • Commitment to upholding quality standards, safety protocols, and regulatory compliance.

Salary:

The starting salary for this position would be determined with consideration of the successful candidate’s relevant education and experience and would be in alignment with the provincial compensation reference plan. The expected pay range for this position is $5,000 - $6,250 per month.

How to Apply: 

Interested candidates should send a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and contact details for 3 referees to:

Joseph Lau, PhD

Scientist, Integrative Oncology, BC Cancer

Assistant Professor, Radiology, UBC

Email: jlau[at]bccrc.ca

Sponsors

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