The Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO) is Canada’s Centre for Pandemic Research. Located at the University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon, Canada, VIDO is a leader in human and animal infectious disease research and vaccine development. For over 45 years we have developed solutions to emerging diseases including eight commercially available vaccines—six of which were world’s firsts, with four more in regulatory development. As a National Centre, we are home to one of the largest and most advanced level 3 containment facilities with capacity and expertise to house and care for a variety of animal species including rodents, poultry, pigs, cattle, and bison. We are currently expanding our specialized infrastructure to include a vaccine GMP manufacturing facility, a new multi-species level 2 animal facility, and upgraded capacity to include level 4 containment.

 

Our vision includes the building the capacity to harness large-scale computation in the design of new vaccines and therapeutic approaches to deliver rapid pandemic response to novel infectious pathogens (Pathogen X) as part of VIDO’s mission as Canada's Centre for Pandemic Research. In support of this vision, VIDO is actively building a team of internationally recognized translational scientists to develop and apply cutting-edge computational technologies in the field of antigen discovery and vaccine design and design of antimicrobial therapeutics.

 

We are seeking an outstanding scientist holding a PhD in life science or computer science with a minimum of 3 years of experience in the field of molecular immunology and medicinal chemistry. This position focuses on cutting-edge research requiring advanced use of first-principles molecular dynamics modeling software environments as well as coarse-grained molecular docking and artificial intelligence (AI)-based predictive models (e.g. AlphaFold) in addition to possessing a broad knowledge of immuno-informatics database for novel vaccine design. The position requires focusing on computational modeling and simulation at the atomic and molecular level of vaccine antigens and epitopes binding to the highly diverse major histocompatibility complexes (MHCs) in humans and/or the corresponding protein complexes in swine and cattle (i.e., swine and bovine leucocyte antigens (SLAs and BoLAs, respectively)). This work also extends towards design and modeling of novel antiviral and antimicrobial agents, as well as elucidating host immune responses to infectious agents.

 

The candidate will integrate their expert knowledge to work in close collaboration with VIDO Principal Scientists and external research sponsors towards the optimal design of immunogenic epitope prediction including the design of novel numerical methods, the testing and deployment on large-scale distributed computing platforms, conducting sound numerical experiments and interpretating findings in a trans-disciplinary team-based environment.

While immunology-focused outcome-driven research is a primary objective, the candidate will have the opportunity to pursue independent research questions in the area of vaccine-related algorithm design

and large computation including the possibility of quantum numerical research that aligns with the goals of the organization. The successful candidate will also be expected to develop and lead training programs in computational immunology for technical staff, graduate students, and post-doctoral fellows and therefore teaching experience at the university level is an asset. The incumbent will report to the Director for Research.

Applicants must have a PhD and >3 years relevant research experience in applying expert theoretical and practical knowledge of computational immunology and medicinal pharmacology in a trans-disciplinary environment, ideally coupled with wet lab experience. Demonstrated work in computational modeling and simulation of immunologically-related complexes of proteins including MHCs/SLAs with epitopes and their linkers for vaccine development, as well as demonstrated experience in algorithm design and high-performance computing is essential.

A track record in applying these methodologies to address research questions, including peer-reviewed publications in immunological or computational research forums is essential. Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, R, or C++, and familiarity with bioinformatics tools and databases is an asset. Effective organizational, time management skills, analytical and problem-solving skills, prioritization skills and excellent verbal and written communication skills are also required. Applicants must have the ability to work effectively as a team member in a diverse and dynamic environment.

 

Successful candidates will be appointed as a Research Scientist I (a non-tenure-track position) at VIDO. The starting salary will be commensurate with education and experience and highly competitive with academic positions in Canada.

 

 

Education/Credential Verification: Yes

Vulnerable Sector Check: Not Applicable[WS1] 

 

Interested candidates are asked to submit their application as a single PDF document including a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three references. Applications will close when the position is awarded. 

 

We thank all applicants for their interest and note that those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.