DepartmentThe Department of Biochemistry in the Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto invites applications for the position of Research Associate (Limited Term) to lead our clinical development of bacterial vaccines, including participation in and oversight of work aiming to rationally design our protein antigens, optimize vaccine formulation, and compare the effect of varying routes and timing of immunizations, with a particular focus on completing studies that support the eventual licensing of these vaccines.

CampusCandidates require a Ph.D. with demonstrated academic and research expertise in the fields of microbiology, protein biochemistry, bioinformatics and immunology. Experience working with respiratory-transmitted bacterial pathogens is a strong asset, as is experience in developing new animal infection model, and formal project management experience. Candidates must have experience preparing manuscripts for submission to peer review publications/journals; assisting with preparing research proposals to be submitted to granting agencies; and presenting findings at meetings and conferences. Candidates must also have experience designing, planning and executing experiments and research. Strong organizational, interpersonal and communication skills are required, and proven ability to work positively with others in a large multi-collaborative laboratory.

KEY DUTIES
•Designing, planning and executing research aimed at supporting the licensing of our novel vaccines.
•Coordinating efforts by a dynamic and productive team with diverse expertise.
•Contributing directly to research aimed at optimizing the protective efficacy of our novel vaccines, including selection and comparison of adjuvants that enhance protein stability and immunogenicity; comparison of the intensity, breadth and durability of immune response elicited by the vaccine formulations; and comparing the protection provided by different vaccine formulations. Relevant assays include but are not limited to: protein engineering, immunological analysis of leukocyte and humoral responses, and infection modeling to assess vaccine-mediated protection.
•Using regulatory agency guidance and historical information available regarding the licensing of approved animal and human vaccines, help guide development and experimental validation of our vaccines to support their ultimate licensing, and to work with our team members to compile applications for regulatory approval.
•Liaising with collaborators and assisting in the compilation, analysis and reporting of research findings to researchers within and outside of the program.
•Preparing manuscripts for submission to peer review publications/journals.
•Presenting findings at local, national and international conferences.
•Assisting with research proposals to be submitted to granting agencies and progress reporting.
•Assisting with general laboratory biosafety and maintenance, including inventories, equipment repair, ordering, and shipping reagents.

Beyond these responsibilities, the individual may be asked to participate in the preparation of grant applications and research supervision of technical support and trainees. At all times, the individual will be expected to support the overall research and teaching missions of the lab.

The University of Toronto is strongly committed to diversity within its community and especially welcomes applications from racialized persons / persons of colour, women, Indigenous / Aboriginal People of North America, persons with disabilities, LGBTQ persons, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas.
All qualified incumbents are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.


Department: Biochemistry
Campus: St. George (downtown Toronto)
Schedule: Full-time
Job Field: Research Associate (Limited Term)
Job Posting: Sep 12, 2019
Job Closing: Sep 20, 2019, 10:59:00 PM