Scientist, Functional Genomics, Systems Biology of Disease and Epigenetics
The Research Institute at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) is seeking an outstanding Scientist (equivalent to Assistant Professor) whose research is focused on functional genomics, systems biology of disease and epigenetics. Anchored in modern sequencing capabilities and with the rapid development of single cell approaches and CRISPR-based screening technologies, systematic functional approaches to target discovery are accelerating our understanding of diseases and opportunities for therapeutic development. At the interface of functional genomics, systems biology, bioinformatics, data analyses, chemical biology and biologics, this position reflects the need for deep functional annotation of the human genome and systems-level understanding of disease. Research in these areas are also fully aligned with SickKids Precision Child Health initiative. This faculty position is permanent full-time and will include an accompanying appointment in a relevant department at the University of Toronto.
Applicants must have a PhD, MD, or MD/PhD or equivalent in a relevant discipline, significant research experience (i.e., at least 2-3 years postdoctoral experience) and a record of scientific in the aforementioned research areas. The successful candidate will initiate and maintain an original, competitive, and independently funded research program of international caliber. The successful candidate will benefit from the extensive research and core facilities of SickKids, the University of Toronto and its affiliated institutions for genomics, genetics, proteomics, metabolomics, bioinformatics, drug discovery, structure, biophysics, cellular imaging, as well as inter-institutional initiatives focused on computational biology and disease modelling.
The successful candidate will be appointed as a Scientist in the Genetics & Genome Biology program and/or the Development & Stem Cell Biology program in the SickKids Research Institute. The candidate will also be expected to qualify for an academic status-only cross-appointment as in an appropriate department at the University of Toronto. Candidates must provide evidence of research excellence, which can be demonstrated by a record of sustained high-impact contributions and publications in top-ranked and field-relevant journals, the submitted research statement, presentations at significant conferences, distinguished awards and accolades, evidence of impact on the field, and other noteworthy activities that contribute to the visibility and prominence of the discipline, as well as strong endorsements from referees of high standing. Candidates should demonstrate evidence of independent research productivity in the field including peer-reviewed publications and a history of successful; grant-applications to external agencies including fellowships and contribution to operating grants. They should demonstrate the ability to launch a successful research career in an equitable and inclusive research environment. Candidates will be expected to establish and maintain a diverse research team and create an inclusive research and training environment.
Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. A competitive benefits package is being offered along with support for relocation expenses. Exceptional, appropriately qualified candidates may be nominated for a Canada Research Chair. For further information see: http://www.chairs-chaires.gc.ca/home-accueil-eng.aspx.
The successful applicant’s research program will be housed at the SickKids Research Institute in the state-of-the-art Peter Gilgan Centre for Research & Learning (686 Bay Street, Toronto, Canada), located in the Discovery District in the heart of downtown Toronto. SickKids is fully affiliated with the University of Toronto - Canada’s largest and top-ranked university, and our researchers benefit from the extensive research facilities at the UofT and other affiliated institutions. The position offers a unique environment for medical science discoveries, with nine teaching and research hospitals in close proximity. The position offers the opportunity to conduct research, teach, and live in one of the most vibrant, safe, and diverse cities of the world.
The SickKids’ Research Institute includes advanced, innovative core facilities for our scientists and their collaborators supporting basic, translational, and clinical research. These facilities provide state-of-the art technologies including comprehensive genomics, proteomics, high parameter single cell analysis, high resolution microscopy, computational modeling and analysis, animal models, high through-put drug screening as well as associated technical expertise and services to conduct leading health research and maximize impact for patients, families, communities and economic innovation. The successful applicant is expected to establish a world-leading research program in the broad areas of functional genomics, systems biology and epigenetics, and potentially the translation to clinical practice. Of particular interest are functional genomics and/or systems biology efforts toward target discovery for disease and molecular disease pathology. Experimental, cell-based and computational approaches using disease models will be considered.
SickKids recognizes that scholars have varying career paths and that career can be part of an excellent academic record. Candidates are encouraged to explain any personal circumstances in order to allow for a fair assessment of their application. Search committee members have been instructed to give consideration and be sensitive to the impact of career interruptions in their assessments.
In addition, the Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute recognizes the legitimate impact that leaves (e.g., parental leaves, slowdowns due to illness or disability, impacts of COVID-19) can have on a candidate’s record of research achievement. These leaves will be taken into careful consideration during the review and assessment of application materials.
Our Commitment to Diversity
SickKids and the University of Toronto are strongly committed to diversity within its communities and welcomes applications from racialized persons / persons of colour, women, Indigenous / Aboriginal People of North America, persons with disabilities, 2SLGBTQIA+ persons, and others who contribute to the further diversification of ideas. Informed by the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), the Ontario Human Rights Code, and our Access and Accommodation Policy, SickKids is proud to make accommodations to support applicants during the interview and assessment process, if requested. Please advise the SickKids Research Institute Faculty Office at faculty.office@sickkids.ca of your accessibility needs during the recruitment process. Information received relating to accommodation will be addressed confidentially.
Application Process
All qualified candidates are invited to apply and must email a cover letter, current curriculum vitae, description of past research (maximum 1 page), proposed research program (maximum 3 pages), and copies of three representative publications. Files should preferably, be all merged into a single PDF and sent to fgsbd.search@sickkids.ca by the close of the search on December 30, 2022.
Applicants must also arrange to have three letters of reference (on letterhead, dated and signed) sent directly by the referee via email fgsbd.search@sickkids.ca indicating the applicant’s name in the subject line, also by the close of the search.
All application materials, including reference letters, must be received by December 30, 2022
Review of applications will commence December 2022 and continue until the position is filled, with a potential start date of Summer/Fall 2023. Only those applicants selected for interviews will be contacted.
SickKids believes that diversity positively impacts science and is essential to sustain our vibrant world-leading research community. As part of the application process, you will be asked to complete a brief voluntary diversity survey. Any information directly related to you is confidential and cannot be accessed by either the search committee or human resources staff. Results will be aggregated for institutional planning purposes. The self-identification information is collected, used, disclosed, retained and disposed of in accordance with the Privacy Act and the Access to Information Act.
All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply. The successful candidate will hold an appropriate and valid work permit, if applicable. Wherein a practicing MD, the successful candidate must hold or be eligible for licensure with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario. Only those applicants selected for the interview will be contacted.
FOR EXTERNAL APPLICANTS ONLY: As a health care institution, our highest priority is the safety of patients, families and staff. As a result, we are adopting all prevention measures to ensure the safety of our patients, families and our staff. Therefore, any offer of employment is conditional upon you submitting proof that you have been fully vaccinated with a Health Canada or World Health Organization (WHO) approved COVID-19 vaccination as soon as possible and no later than fourteen (14) calendar days prior to the effective start date, in addition to satisfying any other condition(s) that may be set out in an offer. If a candidate fails to satisfy this condition (or any other condition(s) set out in an offer), any offer of employment shall be immediately rescinded.
Applicants may direct any informal inquiries to:
Co-Chairs, Functional Genomics & Systems Biology of Disease
SickKids Research Institute - The Peter Gilgan Centre for Research & Learning
686 Bay Street Toronto, Ontario Canada M5G 0A4
fgsbd.search@sickkids.ca