Post-Doctoral Research Fellow - Rare Pediatric Eye Cancer Biobank

at  SickKids

ABOUT SICKKIDS

Dedicated exclusively to children and their families, The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) is one of the largest and most respected paediatric healthcare centres in the world. As innovators in child health, we lead and partner to improve the health of children through the integration of healthcare, leading-edge research and education. Our reputation would not have been built – nor could it be maintained – without the skills, knowledge and experience of the extraordinary people who come to work here every day. SickKids is committed to ongoing learning and development, and features a caring and supportive work environment that combines exceptionally high standards of practice.
When you join SickKids, you become part of our community. We share a commitment and determination to fulfill our vision of Healthier Children. A Better World.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to work alongside the world’s best in paediatric healthcare.

POSITION DESCRIPTION

A Post-Doctoral Fellow is sought to support a Rare Pediatric Eye Cancer (R-PEC) Biobank led by the Dimaras lab.
The R-PEC Biobank collects diverse, high-quality R-PEC specimen, and data (including images) from clinicians located across Canada, the United States and the United Kingdom. The specimen and associated data are shared with researchers through a process governed by an established Data Access Committee.
The R-PEC Biobank team will generate additional data and resources from the specimen collected. Namely, select specimen are being examined through whole genome sequencing. And, 2D (i.e. cell lines) and 3D (i.e. tumor organoids) cancer models will soon be created to provide a renewable resource to overcome the limitation of rare specimen.
This position offers an exciting opportunity to work in an interdisciplinary research environment and make a significant impact at the forefront of biobank science.

REQUIREMENTS:

• PhD from a recognized academic institution in a relevant area (e.g., cancer research, vision research, genetics, molecular biology). Applicants with a background of cell and molecular biology, genetics or vision science are preferred, but not required
• Experience in cell line and organoid development and biobanking is preferred, but not required
• A strong publication record
• Experience being part of an interdisciplinary collaborative team
• Excellent verbal written communication skills
• Ability to work independently, lead complex research projects and meet tight deadlines
• Exceptional attention to detail
• Superior problem-solving, organizational, and interpersonal skills
• Self-motivated, innovative, and eager to address the unique challenges associated with this interdisciplinary opportunity bridging the fields of pediatric oncology, molecular biology, biobanking, business planning, and patient engagement
• Demonstrated commitment to advancing and aiding in the pursuit of equity, diversity and inclusion objectives

HOW TO APPLY:

• Cover letter (maximum 2-page) that includes your motivation for applying to this position, your research experience and how your research interests/future career goals fit the job description.
• Curriculum Vitae
• Names, email addresses and other contact details for three referees

• Conduct independent research
• Develop renewable biobank resources
• Set up biobank infrastructure
• Establish quality control and assurance practices for handling, storage, and inventory of specimens, ensuring adherence to protocols and quality standards
• Develop and review standard operating procedures
• Contribute to the dissemination of ideation and findings through grants, publications, and conference proceedings
• Train, manage and supervise students and other team members
• Manage collaborations with team members and external research groups