We are seeking an experienced, highly-motivated Postdoctoral Fellow with strong leadership ability and well-rounded, hands-on expertise in translational research with expertise in ischemia and reperfusion injury with interests in drug repurposing and entrepreneurship. The successful applicant will work full-time under the supervision of Dr. David Granville for a two-year term with the possibility of extension. The position start date is flexible.
JOB SUMMARY:
Repurposing clinically-approved drugs for alternate indications is a proven strategy to accelerate the development and approval of new treatments. Through conventional and advanced ‘omics approaches, we have recently identified an off-patent drug and demonstrated efficacy in multiple models of ischemia and reperfusion injury (eg. cardiac (MI/transplant), spinal cord perfusion injury, skin (pressure injury and thermal injury). Administration of the clinically-approved drug prevented superoxide generation, increased nitic oxide bioavailability, improved tissue perfusion, reduced inflammation and accelerated healing in models of cardiac, spinal cord and skin injury. Our research program spans basic molecular biology, biochemistry, and proteomics through to target validation, proof-of-concept in animal and human models, and collaborations with clinicians and industry. The Postdoctoral Fellow (PDF) will be responsible for conceiving, designing, and implementing pre-clinical studies to advance the development and novel formulations of this drug as well as playing a key role in intellectual property and commercialization. The position will provide a unique opportunity to join a CIHR-funded translational academic research lab, lead pre-clinical studies, gain entrepreneurial training, and collaborate with industry and leading academic collaborators at UBC and abroad.
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 Granville Laboratory is located within the International Collaboration for Repair Discoveries (ICORD) Centre, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute (www.vchri.ca) in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. The candidate will report to Dr. Granville directly and will play a senior leadership role in the laboratory that includes overseeing the research activities of graduate students, undergraduate students, and technicians. More information on the Granville Laboratory can be found at https://granzymes.com.
WORK PERFORMED:
Provide leadership and strategic direction pertaining to the working with collaborators to assess novel formulations for topical and systemic applications
Design and implement research plans, including in vitro and in vivo models
If successful, play a key role in leading the establishment of a new UBC spin-off company working with programs offered through UBC and potentially SFU.
Foster research collaborations and work jointly with academic, clinical, industry, and other partners
Scientifically document lab experiments, data analysis, interpretations
Write manuscripts, present results at internal and external meetings
Identify funding opportunities as well as write grant proposals with supervisor as a co-applicant
Lead and mentor junior trainees in the laboratory
CONSEQUENCE OF ERROR:
This is a senior research position that plays a critical role in the development of this novel 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.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED:
The PDF will work with a high degree of independence and set priorities under broad directives from Dr. Granville. This position will also provide the candidate with professional development opportunities as well as a high level of exposure to translation, commercialization, and industry.
SUPERVISION EXERCISED:
The PDF will be expected to provide direction and mentorship to graduate and undergraduate students under the supervision of Dr. Granville.
QUALIFICATIONS:
PhD with expertise in cell biology, molecular biology, pharmacology, or related disciplines
A proven track record with a minimum of 2-3 first author publications in reputable journals
Expertise in molecular biology is essential while previous experience in drug development, animal models of disease, entrepreneurship is an asset
Demonstrated experience in experimental design, analyses and scientific writing
Previous experience in manuscript/proposal writing is an asset
Excellent written and oral communication skills
Exceptional interpersonal and organizational skills
If you are interested in this position, please submit a cover letter and CV in 1 PDF file to Dr. Karen Jung PhD at kjung@icord.org. The position will remain open until filled. UBC hires on the basis of merit and is strongly committed to equity and diversity within its community.
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.