VIDO
Research Associate
Description
The Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO), Canada’s Centre for Pandemic Research, is a world leader in infectious disease research and vaccine development for humans and animals. Located at the University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon, Canada, VIDO is home to one of the largest and most advanced containment level 3 facilities in the world. To strengthen the preparedness for emerging infectious diseases we are currently expanding our infrastructure to include containment level 4 capacity, a GMP vaccine manufacturing facility, and a new animal housing facility. Our vision includes having the capacity to study any emerging disease in any animal model embracing a One Health approach to prevent emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases in humans and animals.
The Non-Regulated Process Development (NRPD) group, overseen by Dr. Trina Racine, is responsible for conducting bench scale process development on the manufacture of vaccines using a multitude of platforms, including nucleic acid vaccines. The group is responsible for conducting upstream process development using both mammalian and bacterial cell culture and for downstream process development using a variety of purification methods. The group is also responsible for developing analytical assays for batch release and for conducting protein characterization. We are recruiting a Research Associate for our group who has research interests in bench scale process development, with a focus on the development of improved nucleic acid quantitation and purification techniques. Reporting to Dr. Trina Racine, the successful candidate will conduct independent research into nucleic acid vaccine development, including the design, performance and analysis of experimental studies. They will write research reports and manuscripts. The successful candidate will also participate in the development processes for the manufacture of recombinant protein vaccines, in collaboration with the rest of the NRPD group. Given the nature of the work, this position may on occasion require coming into the lab on weekends.
Qualifications
- A PhD in Biotechnology or similar field, with first-author publications in reputable scientific journals is a requisite.
- Experience culturing both mammalian and bacterial cells. Experience with bench scale bioreactors is an asset.
- Experience with analytical chromatography methodologies, including hands on work with HPLC and FPLC machines.
- Experience qualifying and / or validating analytical assays.
Status: 2-year term, with the possibility of extension or becoming permanent
Employment Group: Non-Union
Shift: Monday – Friday, 7.5 hours per day (37.5 hours per week); weekend work may be required
Full Time Equivalent (FTE): 1.0
The successful applicant will be required to provide the following current verification(s) where 'Yes' is indicated below. Further information is available at: https://careers.usask.ca/tips-for-applying.php#Howtoapplyforaposition
Facility Access Screening including Criminal Record Check: Yes
Driver's License and Abstract Check: Not Applicable
Education/Credential Verification: Yes
Vulnerable Sector Check: Not Applicable
Interested candidates are asked to submit their application including a cover letter, CV, and the names of three references.
Review of applications will begin immediately; however, applications will be accepted and evaluated until the position is filled. We thank all applicants for their interest; only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
For more information visit: vido.org
Note: The University believes equity, diversity, and inclusion strengthen the community and enhance excellence, innovation, and creativity. We are dedicated to recruiting individuals who will enrich our work and learning environments. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, in accordance with Canadian immigration requirements, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority. We are committed to providing accommodations to those with a disability or medical necessity. If you require an accommodation in order to participate in the recruitment process, please notify us and we will work together on the accommodation request. The University of Saskatchewan’s main campus is situated on Treaty 6 Territory and the Homeland of the Métis. We pay our respects to the First Nations and Métis ancestors of this place and reaffirm our relationship with one another. Together, we are uplifting Indigenization to a place of prominence at the University of Saskatchewan.