Date Posted: 08/14/2025
Req ID:44796
Faculty/Division: Faculty of Dentistry
Department: Faculty of Dentistry
Campus: St. George (Downtown Toronto)

ABOUT US:

Exciting new advances and global challenges are radically reshaping the field of dentistry. Our vision at the Faculty of Dentistry at the University of Toronto is to not just address and respond to these changes – but to thoughtfully and conscientiously shape the field of the future.
With our robust and comprehensive educational training programs (DDS, MSc, PhD degrees, IDAPP and other specialty programs), our emphasis on community outreach and care, and our internationally known and interdisciplinary research mission, the Faculty of Dentistry at the University of Toronto continues to earn its reputation as one of the top dental schools in North America. Throughout more than 150 years of dental education - the oldest, largest and most comprehensive training program in Canada - we have striven to graduate the highest quality of students while providing the public the highest standards of care.
We are driving by our vision to improve health by advancing dentistry through inspired leadership, innovation, and excellence in education, research and practice.

OVERVIEW:

The Faculty of Dentistry at the University of Toronto invites applications for a Research Associate (Limited Term) for a 1-year appointment.
Dr. Anil Kishen’s research group operates at the interface of microbiology, immunology, biomaterials, and translational therapeutics. Based in the Faculty of Dentistry at the University of Toronto, the lab leads multidisciplinary projects with a strong emphasis on in vitro disease modeling and the development of innovative biomaterials and nanoparticle-based therapeutic strategies.
We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Research Associate to support and lead key research initiatives in the lab. This role is ideal for a candidate with strong molecular and cellular biology experience, an interest in translational science, and the ability to contribute meaningfully to scientific publications and grant development.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Ph.D. in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Immunology, Biomedical Sciences, or a related field with more than 5 years work experience.
• Proven track record in therapeutic candidate development, assay optimization, and in vitro modeling.
• Strong technical expertise in mammalian cell culture, qPCR, ddPCR, ELISA, flow cytometry, cloning, and T-cell engineering.
• Demonstrated ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced research environment.
• Experience in managing research projects, mentoring trainees, and supporting laboratory infrastructure.
• Excellent communication and scientific writing skills.
• Experience in contributing to grant proposals and scientific reviews is highly desirable.
• PMP® certification or project management experience is an asset but not required.

Design, execute, and optimize molecular and cellular assays to evaluate therapeutic candidates, including those involving nanoparticle and biomaterial-based platforms.

• Develop and maintain in vitro disease models relevant to the lab’s research focus.
• Lead or support multi-disciplinary research efforts, coordinating with collaborators and managing research timelines and deliverables.
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior lab members, including graduate and undergraduate students.
• Manage day-to-day laboratory operations, including equipment maintenance, safety compliance, and inventory.
• Analyze data and contribute to scientific manuscripts, literature reviews, and meta-analyses.
• Assist in the preparation of grant proposals and progress reports to support ongoing and future research initiatives.