Research Associate

Academic

Job CategoryFaculty Non Bargaining

Job TitleResearch Associate

DepartmentTurvey Laboratory Department of Paediatrics Faculty of Medicine (Stuart Turvey)

Posting End DateJune 18, 2024

Note: Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on the day prior to the Posting End Date above.

Job End DateJul 31, 2025

This position is located within a health-care facility, therefore, the successful candidate will be required to provide verification of full vaccination against Covid-19 provided prior to the start date, as required by a provincial health mandate. This offer is conditional upon successful completion of a Criminal Record Check.

Minimum salary will be $72,000 per annum, however, candidates that possess full job knowledge, qualifications and experience for the position will be offered a higher salary.

Equity and diversity are essential to academic excellence. An open and diverse community fosters the inclusion of voices that have been underrepresented or discouraged. We encourage applications from members of groups that have been marginalized on any grounds enumerated under the B.C. Human Rights Code, including sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, racialization, disability, political belief, religion, marital or family status, age, and/or status as a First Nation, Metis, Inuit, or Indigenous person. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents of Canada will be given priority.

Job Summary:

The UBC Department of Pediatrics at the BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute is at the forefront of pediatric research and dedicated to unraveling the complexities of rare genetic diseases. With a significant portion of patients facing undiagnosed immune disorders, we in the Turvey Lab are committed to ending their ‘diagnostic odysseys’ and improve their quality of life. Our work is fueled by collaboration, innovation, and a shared passion for enhancing pediatric health outcomes.

We invite applications for a Research Associate to join a multidisciplinary translational research program with specific goals to elucidate mechanisms underlying newly discovered primary immune disorders. This position offers the opportunity to engage with cutting-edge technologies, working alongside experts in the field to translate scientific discoveries into tangible benefits for patients.

The Turvey laboratory is an energetic and collegial group that works closely with innovative research initiatives like the Rare Disease Discovery Hub and the Precision Health Initiative to improve rare disease understanding globally. With rapid genomic advances, there is a greater need to mechanistically investigate novel genetic variants and uncover novel insights that will ultimately inform development of targeted therapies. Our integrated approach has been highly successful and is evident from recent publications on STAT6 gain-of-function disease (J Exp Med), IRF4 associated combined immunodeficiency (Sci Immunol), and NFAT1 deficiency (Blood).

The Research Associate will have a PhD and at least 3 years of relevant experience with a publication record in a relevant field (e.g. immunology and molecular biology). The ideal candidate will have experience in translational immunological techniques related to flow cytometry, primary and secondary cell culture systems, and high throughput assays such as bulk and single-cell RNA-seq. The applicant should also demonstrate the ability to work independently, supervise graduate and undergraduate students, conceive, initiate, organize and manage projects. Excellent verbal and written communication skills are a necessity as well as the ability to work in a team environment.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

Collaborates with other researchers and clinicians to mechanistically interrogate genetic candidates of disease.

Works with the PI to ensure that all scientific milestones are achieved.

Provides feedback on proposed study protocol issues.

Provides supervision and mentorship to trainees and staff.

Presents research findings to the team and investigators, and integrates feedback.

Presents research findings at conferences and related research events.

Prepares content for academic manuscripts, technical reports, research proposals, and presentations.

Performs other related duties, as required.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience:

PhD degree in a life science discipline

3+ years of postdoctoral experience in a relevant field (e.g. immunology and molecular biology)

Skills and Abilities:

Knowledge and proven experience using flow cytometry to characterize immune populations.

Experience with cell culture-based methods (e.g. plasmid transformations, reporter assays, and immune cell activation studies).

Drive and enthusiasm to both lead and work as a team member with a collaborative group.

Effective oral and written communication, analytical and interpersonal skills.

Excellent organizational skills and an enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research.

This position will begin as soon as possible. This is a one-year term appointment subject to annual renewal.

Please submit via email a curriculum vitae and a letter of application including a statement of areas of expertise and strengths and the names of three referees to .

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