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.

Position Summary

Dr. Yan Zhou, Principal Investigator and program manager of the viral vaccine development group, is seeking highly motivated PhD or Masters students. The students will be joining a newly funded CIHR Project Grant investigating: Host Immune Responses, Inflammation, Interferon Signaling, and Cell Death Pathways in Mammary Gland Infection by Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Virus H5N1.

This program aims to uncover how HPAI H5N1 replicates in mammary tissue, triggers inflammation, alters epithelial cell function, and evades or activates key antiviral immune pathways. The project will integrate virology, immunology, mammary gland biology, and molecular mechanisms of viral pathogenesis. Students will have the opportunity to work with advanced in vitro and animal models and perform molecular, virological, and immunological assays. Trainees will also receive specialized training on working safely in Containment Level 3 (CL3) environments.

Qualifications

· Strong work ethic, professionalism, and commitment to high‑quality research

· Completed Bachelors or Masters degree in virology or related area.

· Effective organizational, time management skills, and prioritization skills as well as effective verbal and written communication skills are required.

· Experience with mammalian cell culture, basic molecular biology (such as DNA and RNA extraction, RT-qPCR, cloning, CRISPR), protein assays (such as Protein expression, Western blot, ELISA), data analysis skills, RNA sequencing and analysis, is considered an asset.

Formal requirements

The successful applicant will be requested to formally apply for enrolment as a graduate student at the University of Saskatchewan according to the rules stipulated in the guidelines for the Graduate Program at the College of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies.

Financial Support

The candidate will be provided with a stipend and will also be expected to apply for internal and external scholarships.

How to Apply

Candidates must submit one single application document (pdf file) that includes (1) a letter of motivation, (2) a complete curriculum vitae (CV), (3) a copy of university transcripts, and (4) contact information for individuals willing to provide references.

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

Review of applications will begin immediately. 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 accommodation 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.