Research Associate

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Hiring Unit:

Prof. Luke McCaffrey Lab - The Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Institute

Position Summary:

• Contract Period: June 1, 2026, to May 31, 2027.

• Lead independent and collaborative research projects Design, execute, and troubleshoot experiments aligned with the lab’s research program, ensuring methodological rigor and reproducibility.

• Analyze, interpret, and present research findings Perform quantitative and qualitative data analysis; prepare figures, presentations, and internal reports for lab meetings, collaborators, and conferences.

• Prepare manuscripts and scholarly outputs Lead or co‑lead the writing of peer‑reviewed publications, reviews, and conference abstracts; manage revisions and responses to reviewers.

• Coordinate collaborations and knowledge exchange Liaise with internal and external collaborators, manage shared datasets or materials, and contribute to multi‑group research initiatives.

• Contribute to lab operations and experimental workflows Maintain research infrastructure, optimize protocols, coordinate equipment usage, and ensure compliance with safety, ethics, and institutional guidelines.

• Train junior lab members Provide hands‑on training in experimental techniques, data analysis, scientific reasoning, and lab best practices for graduate students, undergraduates, and technicians.

• Contribute to strategic planning of the research program Identify emerging scientific opportunities, propose new project directions, and support long‑term planning for the lab’s research agenda.

• Develop and write grant applications Contribute to the preparation of funding proposals, including drafting scientific sections, generating preliminary data, and coordinating supporting documents.

Education & Experience:

• PhD in a relevant biomedical field

• Postdoctoral research experience

• Proven ability to lead and develop projects

• Demonstrated ability to publish complex research projects

• Experience developing new methodologies

• Experience managing interdisciplinary collaborations

• Experience training students and junior staff

Additional Skills & Qualifications:

• Advanced confocal microscopy - multi-dimension and live imaging

• Advanced quantitative imaging analysis (ImageJ/Fiji, CellProfiler, QuPath, JMP) and development of custom analysis pipelines (MATLAB, Python, R, JMP)

• Plasmid engineering and molecular construct design (site‑directed mutagenesis, multi‑fragment cloning, promoter engineering)

• Flow cytometry and cell sorting

• Lentiviral and adenoviral vector production, titration, and transduction

• Organoid culture or 3D cell models (mouse and human)

• CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing

• Western blotting/quantification workflows

• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects

• Familiarity with reproducible research practices and data management

• Excellent organizational and documentation practices

• Knowledge of biosafety, animal care, and ethics compliance requirements

• Rigorous scientific writing and communication skills

• Experience with grant writing or supporting PI‑level funding applications

• Experience with biobanking or sample tracking systems

• Experience coordinating with core facilities or external collaborators

Knowledge of French and English:

• McGill University is an English-language university where day to day duties may require English communication both verbally and in writing.

• The level of English required for this position has been assessed at a level #4 (qualifier) on a scale of 0-4.

This position is covered by the Association of McGill University Research Employees (AMURE) collective agreement.

Before applying, please note that to work at McGill University, you must be both authorized to work in Canada and willing to work in the province of Quebec at the campus where the position is based / located.

McGill University is an English-language university where most teaching and research activities are conducted in the English language, thereby requiring English communication both verbally and in writing.

Hourly Salary:

$33.96

Hours per Week:

40 (Full time)

Location:

Life Sciences Bldg .

Supervisor:

Associate Professor

Position Start Date:

2026-06-01

Position End Date:

2027-05-31

Deadline to Apply:

2026-04-20

This position is covered by the Association of McGill University Research Employees (AMURE) collective agreement.

McGill University hires on the basis of merit and is strongly committed to equity and diversity within its community. We welcome applications from racialized persons/visible minorities, women, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, ethnic minorities, and persons of minority sexual orientations and gender identities, as well as from all qualified candidates with the skills and knowledge to productively engage with diverse communities. McGill implements an employment equity program and encourages members of designated groups to self-identify. Persons with disabilities who anticipate needing accommodations for any part of the application process may contact, in confidence, [email protected].