Research Associate in Glycoconjugate Chemistry and Biochemistry

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Note: Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on the Posting End Date.

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The expected pay range for this position is $68,932 to $74,000 per year.

The UBC Michael Smith Laboratories at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver invites applications for a Research Associate position in Glycoconjugate Chemistry and Biochemistry within the laboratory of Dr. Harry Brumer. The successful candidate will use synthetic organic chemistry to produce custom oligosaccharide glycoconjugates, and examine these compounds in vitro using biochemical and analytical assays to test their potential as therapeutic candidates.

The successful candidate is expected to have completed their PhD and at least four years of postdoctoral research experience. The successful candidate must have advanced capability and research experience in synthetic organic chemistry, enzyme assays, and small-molecule analysis and quantitation. Specifically, the candidate must have demonstrated experience with carbohydrate chemistry (especially glycosylation), glycoside hydrolase kinetics, and reaction product analysis (including by quantitative liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry). Excellent record keeping and data management skills are also required. Knowledge of, and experience with, gastrointestinal drug delivery is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities will include: Conduct laboratory research including experimental design and execution: Synthesize target compounds, obtain confirmation of structure and purity according to best-practices in organic chemistry, measure stability and reaction kinetics of compounds with recombinant enzymes and chemical agents, identify enzyme products, and measure compounds from in vitro and in vivo experiments, working closely with other project team members. Mentor graduate, undergraduate, and technician team members in these methods. Manage compound libraries, data and experimental results. Work in a team-based project, meeting regularly with chemists, biochemists, and biologists to advance project goals. Play an active role in writing progress reports, peer-reviewed publications, and patent applications. Supervise lab organization including waste disposal and adherence to safety protocols, etc.

The appointment will be for two years commencing August 21, 2025 with a possibility for extension, subject to satisfactory performance and funding. The expected pay range for this position is $68,932 to $74,000 per year.

Application Process: Interested applicants should submit a CV and cover letter that details their experience and contact details for 3 references to the UBC Careers portal. Application materials should be submitted no later than the posting end date.

Equity and diversity are essential to academic excellence. An open and diverse community fosters the inclusion of voices that have been underrepresented or discouraged. We encourage applications from members of groups that have been marginalized on any grounds enumerated under the B.C. Human Rights Code, including sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, racialization, disability, political belief, religion, marital or family status, age, and/or status as a First Nation, Metis, Inuit, or Indigenous person.

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