Research Associate – the Personalized OncoGenomics Program (POG)

Canada’s Michael Smith Genome Sciences Centre (GSC)Today’s Research. Tomorrow’s Medicine.

The GSC is a department of the BC Cancer Research Institute and a high-throughput genome sequencing facility. We are leaders in genomics, proteomics and bioinformatics in pursuit of novel treatment strategies for cancers and other diseases.

Among the world’s first genome centres to be established within a cancer clinic, for more than two decades our scientists and innovators have been designing and deploying cutting-edge technologies to benefit health and advance clinical research.

Among the GSC’s most significant accomplishments are the first publication to demonstrate the use of whole-genome sequencing to inform cancer treatment planning, the first published sequence of the SARS coronavirus genome and major contributions to the first physical map of the human genome as part of the Human Genome Project.

By joining the GSC you will become part of an exceptional and diverse team of scientists, clinicians, experts and professionals operating at the leading edge of clinical research. We look for people who share our core values—science, timeliness, respect—to join us on our mission to use genome science for the betterment of health and society.

Job Reference No: RA_R00006_POG_2023_03_10

Summary

The GSC is currently looking for a Research Associate to work on the Personalized OncoGenomics Program (POG). The goal of this program is to develop cutting-edge approaches to aid in the determination of relevant therapeutic options based on the genomic and transcriptomic information derived from a patient’s tumour. Working under the supervision of the Principal Investigator and the Group Leader, the successful incumbent will work with the project team to lead the activities on the development, implementation and performing bioinformatics analysis, as well as interpretation and communication of genomic data in a clinical context.

Duties include:

• Developing, implementing and performing bioinformatics and statistical analysis on human cancer data.
• Liaising with clinical staff to facilitate communication of informative or clinically actionable genomic results.
• Development and maintenance of  informatics resources that support the POG program.
• Providing scientific direction, leading data analysis and preparation of manuscripts and/or presentation of research papers.
• Performing literature review and identifying, collecting and analyzing internal and external datasets.
• Testing and implementing software for inclusion into research projects.
• Assisting in the preparation of grants, protocols and other funding related documents.

Skills and Abilities:

• PhD in molecular genetics, molecular biology, genomics, bioinformatics or related field.
• Broad understanding of human molecular genetics and cancer biology.
• Experience working with human genomic data, particularly next generation sequencing data (WGS, RNAseq).
• Proficiency in a common programming language (eg. Python or R).
• Excellent communication and organization skills, and ability to efficiently manage time and workflow, including skillfully prioritizing both long-term projects and day-to-day responsibilities.
• Ability for critical thinking and independent learning.

Apply

Please submit a detailed cover letter and resume to bcgscjobs@bcgsc.ca, using RA_R00006_POG_2023_03_10 in the subject line of your email.

While we value and review all applications, please note that due to the volume of submissions only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. This posting will remain online until the position is filled.

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority.

Important!

As per the current Public Health Order, full vaccination against COVID-19 is a condition of employment with PHSA as of October 26, 2021.

Please note all jobs at the GSC are based in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Flexible work options are available for this position upon request and is subject to change in accordance with GSC’s operational needs and PHSA’s Flexible Work Options Policy.

We believe that equity, diversity and inclusivity are essential for the advancement of human knowledge and science.

We welcome all applicants and provide all employees with equal opportunity for advancement, regardless of race, colour, ancestry, place of origin, political belief, religion, marital status, family status, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, conviction of a criminal or summary conviction offence unrelated to their employment.