Postdoctoral Research Fellow – Host-Pathogen Interactions & Host-Directed Therapeutics

About the role

The Department of Microbiology and Immunology at the University of British Columbia invites a motivated researcher to join Dr. Jim Sun's laboratory as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow. The position focuses on dissecting host immune pathways and microbial pathogenesis to uncover novel therapeutic targets.

Key responsibilities

• Conceptualize and lead independent projects aligned with the lab’s objectives.
• Design and execute experiments on host immune responses, macrophage biology, and host‑directed therapies.
• Perform bacterial culture, genetics, and molecular cloning, including targeted gene deletion and overexpression.
• Develop and run high‑throughput fluorescence and luminescence screening assays for drug discovery.
• Conduct quantitative real‑time PCR and related molecular assays.
• Carry out mammalian cell culture, primary cell work, PBMC isolation, CRISPR‑based editing, transfection/transduction, and in‑vitro bacterial infection studies.
• Contribute to ongoing projects and mentor junior lab members.

Required profile

• PhD in microbiology, immunology, molecular biology, or a related field.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to work collaboratively across disciplines.
• Experience leading research projects and preparing manuscripts or grant applications.

Required skills

• Bacterial culture and genetics
• Molecular cloning, targeted gene deletion, gene overexpression
• High‑throughput fluorescence and luminescence screening
• Quantitative real‑time PCR
• Mammalian cell culture, primary cell culture, PBMC isolation
• CRISPR‑based genome editing
• Transfection and transduction techniques
• In‑vitro bacterial infection assays
• Omics approaches and in‑vivo model experience

What we offer

• Competitive salary of CAD $60,000 per annum
• Mentorship in a multidisciplinary research environment
• Opportunities for manuscript and grant development
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion