Simon Wisnovsky

Assistant Professor

Research Interests

glycobiology
carbohydrates
Tumor immunology
Functional genomics
CRISPR screening
Glycomics
Biochemistry
Molecular Genetics
Cell Biology
Cancer

Relevant Thesis-Based Degree Programs

Research Options

I am available and interested in collaborations (e.g. clusters, grants).
I am interested in and conduct interdisciplinary research.
I am interested in working with undergraduate students on research projects.
 
 

Research Methodology

CRISPR genomic screening
CRISPR base editor tools
Functional glycomics
Tumor Immunology

Open Research Positions

This list of possible research projects is non-exhaustive. It only shows positions that are specifically advertised in the G+PS website.

Recruitment

Master's students
Doctoral students
Postdoctoral Fellows
Any time / year round
2021
2022

Dr. Wisnovsky's lab studies the cell surface glycome, a dense network of sugar molecules that coats the surface of every living cell. The glycome plays a fundamental role in regulating the activity of our immune system, helping immune cells to distinguish normal, healthy cells from abnormal cells and invading pathogens. In diseases like cancer, the structure of the cell-surface glycome becomes profoundly altered, allowing tumour cells to escape immune detection. Dr. Wisnovsky's group applies cutting-edge CRISPR genomic screening technologies to better understand the complex genetic mechanisms that regulate these changes in cellular glycosylation. The overarching goal of his research is to identify druggable pathways that can be targeted to modulate the cell-surface glycome, generating new therapeutic options for the treatment of cancer and autoimmune disease.

We are actively recruiting creative and motivated researchers to join our group! Wisnovsky lab trainees can expect to receive training in basic molecular biology and immunology techniques as well in cutting-edge areas like high-throughput functional genomics and next-generation sequencing. We aim to equip trainees with the scientific, communication and leadership skills needed to achieve all their goals.

Prospective graduate students should send a copy of their CV and undergraduate transcripts to Simon. Depending on interest, they should also consult the UBC Pharmaceutical Sciences Masters and/or PhD program application timeline and requirements.

Prospective postdoctoral researchers interested in joining the group should send Simon a CV, cover letter and contact information for three references. We especially welcome applications from researchers with prior experience in genetic screening and/or immunology.

We are also happy to consider research associate positions for individuals who have recently received or are about to receive their undergraduate degree and who are interested in an intensive, full-time research experience prior to applying to graduate or medical school. Please email Simon a cover letter, CV and two references if you are interested.

Finally, we welcome applications from undergraduate students looking to gain lab experience. Please email Simon directly about possible opportunities.

The Wisnovsky lab is committed to maintaining a diverse, inclusive and collegial working environment. We welcome researchers of all races, ethnicities, sexual orientations and gender identities.

I support public scholarship, e.g. through the Public Scholars Initiative, and am available to supervise students and Postdocs interested in collaborating with external partners as part of their research.
I am open to hosting Visiting International Research Students (non-degree, up to 12 months).
I am interested in hiring Co-op students for research placements.
I am interested in supervising students to conduct interdisciplinary research.

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Check requirements
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ADVICE AND INSIGHTS FROM UBC FACULTY ON REACHING OUT TO SUPERVISORS

These videos contain some general advice from faculty across UBC on finding and reaching out to a potential thesis supervisor.

 
 

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