Research Associate

Location	Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics 950 West 28th Avenue Vancouver, BC V5Z 4H4 Canada
Category	Research Associate, Ross Laboratory
Group	Faculty
Department	Pediatrics, CMMT
Duration	2012-01-19 to 2014-01-19
Tenure	Full-time; Grant funded
Deadline	2012-01-19, 4:30 p.m.
Overview	The Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at the University of British Columbia seeks applications for up a Research Associate positions to study the pharmacogenomics and pharmacokinetics of adverse drug reactions.

Position Summary

We are seeking a Research Associate to lead a research project with a specific focus on the genetic determinants of severe adverse drug reactions (ADRs). Potential projects focus on severe ADRs to a range of different medications as part of the Canadian Pharmacogenomics Network for Drug Safety (CPNDS). CPNDS is an energetic, nation-wide, multidisciplinary consortium of researchers and clinicians from hospitals and universities that has been established to improve drug safety. CPNDS has catalyzed national and international collaborations and established an active surveillance network to identify patients that have suffered severe ADRs across Canada. The research program applies innovative, large-scale genotyping and DNA sequencing approaches to identify the genetic and/or clinical factors of severe ADRs and to develop diagnostic tests for safer personalized medicine. The CMMT includes outstanding infrastructure support and core facilities.

The successful candidates will lead a project responsible for translating genetic insights in adverse drug reactions into in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo functional assays for validation and the development of predictive genetic assays and implementation in prospective clinical trials. Research will be performed in partnership with other academic groups at UBC and across Canada. The successful applicants will be joining a dedicated, experienced and highly motivated team of geneticists and pharmacologists. The work and environment is fast-paced and exciting, at the cutting edge of molecular insights into devastating adverse drug reactions. Current therapeutic development is focused on chemotherapy medications.

Applicants will be expected to think creatively in the design of assays of protein and mutant-specific function for which a background in protein biochemistry, molecular and cell biology is necessary.

Qualifications

The successful candidates will hold a Ph.D. in Biochemistry or Genetics, and a minimum of 4 years post-doctoral experience in cell biology and related technologies.

• The candidates must be experienced in DNA cloning, recombinant technologies and bioinformatics.
• A working knowledge of mass spectrometry techniques would be advantageous.
• The candidates must have experience in micro and ultrastructural imaging.
• The candidates should have a strong track record in scientific publications.
• The candidates will be expected to mentor and supervise both graduate students and technicians in the laboratory, and thus will require strong project management skills and experience providing hands-on assistance to trainees.
• The candidates must have excellent communication skills, be self-motivated and highly collaborative. They must be able to work effectively as part of a team.
• Creativity, initiative, and good judgment are required.

How to Apply

Please email your cover letter and CV to Dawn Ng (dng@cmmt.ubc.ca) by the closing date, January 19, 2012 at 4:30 pm PST. UBC hires on the basis of merit and is committed to employment equity. We encourage all qualified persons to apply. In accordance with Canadian immigration requirements, priority will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada.