Careers

Job Category

Faculty Non Bargaining

Job Title

Postdoctoral Research Fellow

 

Department

Sorensen Laboratory | Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine | Faculty of Medicine (Poul Sorensen)

 

Job description

The Sorensen laboratory is seeking a highly-motivated postdoctoral fellow with leadership ability and a strong background in one or more of the following fields, namely molecular biology, immunology, and mouse modeling studies. Expertise in bioinformatics analysis is a definite asset. This is a full-time position under the supervision of Dr. Poul Sorensen at the British Columbia Cancer Research Institute in beautiful Vancouver, British Columbia, part of the University of British Columbia, a consistent top 40 worldwide university. The work focuses on functional characterization of pathways involved in tumor cell adaptation to diverse stresses of the tumor microenvironment (TME), including metabolic stress, and how such adaptation leads to disease progression, in high-risk childhood cancers (e.g. PMIDs: 34021002; 35365367; 37611092; 25965573; 31668005; 33908607; 32406909; 25800057). The goal is to use this information to identify and implement novel therapies, including immunotherapeutic targets, for the treatment of these diseases, including Ewing sarcoma, osteosarcoma, neuroblastoma, and CNS tumors. The position start date is flexible but is available immediately for the successful candidate.

This position is located within a health-care facility. Therefore, this position requires successful verification of full vaccination against Covid-19 provided prior to the start date, as required by the provincial health mandate.

Job summary

The work performed in the Sorensen laboratory seeks to utilize basic science approaches to uncover new treatment options in high-risk pediatric cancers, particularly in the targeting of metastatic disease.

The topic areas include but are not limited to the following;

• utilizing proteomics, especially surfaceomic analysis, to identify novel immunotherapy targets for the development of antibody-based therapies in the treatment of high-risk pediatric cancers;
• extensive use of in vitro and in vivo CRISPR screening to identify and functionally validate high-value pathways of interest from multi-omic studies;
• therapeutic targeting of altered metabolic pathways in pediatric cancers;
• elucidation of mechanisms of tumor cell stress adaptation in the TME, including metabolic reprogramming, and how this confers metastatic competence; and
• the role of RNA binding proteins, stress granules, and altered mRNA translation in tumor cytoprotective responses.

Moreover, this position will provide opportunities to collaborate with international leaders in the field of pediatric basic, translational, and clinical research, including immunotherapy and antibody engineering. The selected fellow will initially be supported by grant funds, but will be strongly encouraged to apply for independent fellowship funding, and existing funding is of course an asset.

Organizational status

The PDF will be employed by the department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine at the University of British Columbia. The Sorensen Laboratory is located at the BC Cancer Research Institute in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. The candidate will report directly to the primary Investigator, Dr. Sorensen. The position requires to use a high degree of leadership, initiative, tact and professional judgement in carrying out responsibilities related to the research. Excellent writing skills are critical.

The Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at UBC is a hybrid, academically intensive Department within the UBC Faculty of Medicine whose activities span a broad spectrum of teaching, research, and academic service, often performed in the milieu of clinical practice, and are ultimately devoted to improving the care, treatment, and well-being of patients.  The Department offers academic degrees at the bachelor’s (Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science (BMLSc)) and graduate (MSc, PhD) levels with the graduate program, one of the largest in the Faculty of Medicine, which has been recognized by UBC for its quality. The Department plays a major role in the MD undergraduate program and offers an accredited residency-training program. Faculty members participate across a spectrum of research from basic investigative to translational to clinical applied research and are recognized locally, nationally and internationally for their excellence. 

Work performed

• Develop and implement research plan to validate and prioritize therapeutic targets in high-risk childhood cancers, based on omics data, including surfaceomic data.
• Provide leadership, strategic direction, and translational research pertaining to the development of novel immunotherapy for the treatment of high-risk childhood cancers
• Design and conduct animal experiments, molecular and cellular biology analysis, and bioinformatics analysis of CRISPR screening and other omics experiments. 
• Prepare and present results at internal and external meetings and write manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals.
• Identify funding opportunities as well as write grant proposals
• Lead and mentor junior trainees/students in the laboratory

Consequence of Error/Judgement

This is a senior research position with a critical role in the development of this emerging field. The PDF is accountable for the quality and integrity of the research and data, including analyses and interpretation, as well as the effective and efficient management of research projects and deliverables. This position requires innovation, strategic planning, and adaptability. Incorrect decisions or actions may damage the reputation of the laboratory, lead to loss of credibility in this field, and be financially costly.

We are currently looking for a Postdoctoral Fellow to join Dr. Andrew Roth’s and Dr. Adi Steif’s computational cancer genomics research groups at the BC Cancer Research Institute (BCCRI).

The current position is for a candidate with experience developing and applying computational methods to analyze high throughput biological data. The successful applicant will be part of an exceptional multidisciplinary team developing and applying single cell multiomic methods to study evolution and disease transformation risk in follicular lymphoma (FL). Funded by a multi-year Terry Fox New Frontiers Program Project Grant, the project is a close collaboration with clinicians, molecular biologists and bioinformatic scientists. The candidate will have the opportunity to work with a unique and complex dataset which includes single cell DNA, RNA and epigenetic data.

This is an opportunity to work with highly motivated colleagues in a creative and dynamic environment. By joining the Roth and Steif labs at the BCCRI, you will develop close relationships with world-renown specialists in genomics and bioinformatics and have access to robust computational and sequencing technology facilities, all while living in one of the most beautiful, diverse and eclectic cities in the world.

We offer a competitive salary, excellent benefits and significant career development opportunities

What you’ll do

Working in a multidisciplinary team, the postdoctoral fellow will develop and apply scalable analytical workflows for multiomic data integration and biological interpretation. The appointment is for one year in the first instance, with potential for renewal. Responsibilities include:

• Regularly review the scientific literature
• Contribute to experimental design and planning
• Data preprocessing and quality control
• Data analysis, visualization, and biological interpretation
• Develop and maintain well-documented code
• Regularly update Drs. Roth and Steif as well as key collaborators on the status of projects
• Participate in and present research updates at lab meetings, team meetings and conferences
• Contribute to scientific writing, including the preparation of research manuscripts and grant applications
• May be involved in recruitment, management, and supervision of trainees

What you bring

• A PhD in bioinformatics, computer science, statistics or related discipline
• At least 2 years of research experience in bioinformatics, with a record of first-author publication
• Experience in genomics and high-throughput sequencing data analysis
• Experience in cancer research is an asset
• Programming fluency in Python or R
• Experience working in a Unix/Linux computing environment

You have:

• Critical thinking and attention to detail
• Excellent verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and in a collaborative interdisciplinary team
• A strong work ethic, with demonstrated ability to manage time and prioritize to meet deadlines
• Commitment to upholding the shared responsibility of creating lasting and meaningful reconciliation in Canada as per TRC (2015) and BC's Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (2019).
• Knowledge of social, economic, political and historical realities impacting indigenous communities and familiarity with Indigenous Cultural Safety and anti-racism and accompanying reports (BC DRIPA, TRC, etc.).

What we bring

Every PHSA employee enables the best possible patient care for our patients and their families. Whether you are providing direct care, conducting research, or making it possible for others to do their work, you impact the lives of British Columbians today and in the future. That’s why we’re focused on your care too – offering health, wellness, development programs to support you – at work and at home.

• Join one of BC’s largest employers with province-wide programs, services and operations – offering vast opportunities for growth, development, and recognition programs that honour the commitment and contribution of all employees.
• Access to professional development opportunities through our in-house training programs, including +2,000 courses, such as our San’yas Indigenous Cultural Safety Training course, or Core Linx for Leadership roles.
• PHSA is a remote work friendly employer, welcoming flexible work options to support our people (eligibility may vary, depending on position).
• Access to WorkPerks, a premium discount program offering a wide range of local and national discounts on electronics, entertainment, dining, travel, wellness, apparel, and more.

Job Type: Temporary, Casual 
Location: 675 West 10th Avenue, Vancouver BC, V5Z 1G1
Hours of Work: Monday to Friday; 0830-1630
 

As per the current Public Health Order, full vaccination against COVID-19 is a condition of employment with PHSA as of October 26, 2021.

 

How to Apply

Applicants should submit: a CV; a one-page cover letter explaining how your research experience, interests and career goals align with the position; and the names and contact details of 3 references. 

While we value and review all applications, please note that due to the volume of submissions only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. This posting will remain online until the position is filled.

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority.

 

What we do

About the GSC:

Canada’s Michael Smith Genome Sciences Centre (GSC)

Today’s Research. Tomorrow’s Medicine.

The Genome Sciences Centre (GSC) is a department of the BC Cancer Research Institute and a high-throughput genome sequencing facility. We are leaders in genomics and bioinformatics pursuing novel treatment strategies for cancer and other diseases.

Among the world’s first genome centres to be established within a cancer clinic, for more than two decades our scientists and innovators have been designing and deploying cutting-edge technologies to benefit health and advance clinical research.

Among the GSC’s most significant accomplishments are the first publication to demonstrate the use of whole-genome sequencing to inform cancer treatment planning, the first published sequence of the SARS coronavirus genome and major contributions to the first physical map of the human genome as part of the Human Genome Project.

By joining the GSC you will become part of an exceptional and diverse team of scientists, clinicians, experts and professionals operating at the leading edge of clinical research.

The GSC is part of BC Cancer Research Institute and the Provincial Health Services Authority (PHSA).

BC Cancer provides comprehensive cancer control for the people of British Columbia.

BC Cancer is part of the Provincial Health Services Authority (PHSA).

(PHSA) plans, manages and evaluates specialized health services with the BC health authorities to provide equitable and cost-effective health care for people throughout the province. Our values reflect our commitment to excellence and include: Respect people – Be compassionate – Dare to innovate – Cultivate partnerships – Serve with purpose.

Learn more about PHSA and our programs: jobs.phsa.ca/programs-and-services

PHSA is committed to employment equity, encouraging all qualified individuals to apply. We recognize that our ability to provide the best care for our diverse patient populations relies on a rich diversity of skills, knowledge, background and experience, and value a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment.

Reconciliation is an ongoing process and a shared responsibility for all of us. The BC Governments’ unanimous passage of the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act was a significant step forward in this journey—one that all health authorities are expected to support as we work in cooperation with Indigenous Peoples to establish a clear and sustainable path to lasting reconciliation. True reconciliation will take time and ongoing commitment to work with Indigenous Peoples as they move toward self-determination. Guiding these efforts Crown agencies must remain focused on creating opportunities that implement the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Mandate.