Program Head Developmental, Stem Cell & Cancer Biology (DSCB) Research Program

Modern Healthcare, Inc.; Toronto; On-site; CAD 150,000 - 250,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading healthcare research institution is seeking a Head of the Developmental, Stem Cell & Cancer Biology Program. This leadership role involves overseeing a large research team, driving scientific priorities, and maintaining an original research program of international caliber. The ideal candidate will possess an advanced degree and a strong track record in medical research leadership.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated leadership in research with a track record of independent funding.
• Capable of leading interdisciplinary teams and overseeing significant research projects.
• Required to have appropriate Visa and medical practice license.

Responsibilities

• Lead the DSCB Program with oversight of 20 investigators and 200 students/staff.
• Develop and implement scientific priorities and interdisciplinary projects.
• Initiate and maintain an independently funded research program.

Skills

Leadership

Research Experience

Collaboration

Education

PhD

MD or equivalent

Job description

The Research Institute at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) is seeking a dynamic research leader to be Head of the Developmental, Stem Cell & Cancer Biology (DSCB) Program, one of seven highly productive flagship research programs. The DSCB Program Head leads 20 independent investigators and more than 200 graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, administrative and research staff in both discovery-based and translational research activities that are focused on developing and studying innovative experimental models of human development and disease. Our researchers use patient samples, stem cell and organoid platforms, as well as nematode, Drosophila, zebrafish, axolotl and mouse genetic models to interrogate pathogenic mechanisms underlying a diverse range of childhood disorders. Our common goal is to develop precision therapeutic strategies for paediatric cancer, neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders, congenital defects and rare childhood diseases. Visit our site to learn more about DSCB Program research.

The successful candidate will have a PhD, MD or equivalent, and a demonstrated track record of increasing leadership experience in research. By the job start date, the successful candidate is required to have an appropriate Visa (if applicable) and, to practice as an MD, obtain an appropriate Certificate of Registration from the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (license to practice). The Program Head, together with senior leaders, will be responsible for the overall scope, focus and direction of research within the Program, and will play an integral role in developing and implementing scientific priorities within the Research Institute to ensure SickKids remains at the forefront of research in Developmental, Stem Cell & Cancer Biology. The Program Head will also work with the other Program Heads to establish inter-programmatic projects, to promote information sharing and to maximize use of resources, and work with Hospital and Centre leaders (e.g., Garron Family Cancer Centre) to promote interdisciplinary and translational research. In addition to Program Head activities, the successful candidate will initiate and maintain an original, competitive, and independently funded research program of international caliber.

The successful candidate will be appointed as a Senior Scientist in the Research Institute and is expected to qualify for an appointment at the Associate or Full Professor level (status only) in an appropriate department at the University of Toronto. The Program Head role is a five-year appointment, with the potential to renew this leadership role for a further five-year term following a successful Program review. At the end of their term as Program Head, the successful candidate will be eligible to maintain their Senior Scientist appointment.

The Developmental, Stem Cell & Cancer Biology Research Program is located in the state-of-the-art Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning (PGCRL) and adjoined to the Hospital for Sick Children, within the Discovery District in the heart of downtown Toronto. The Program offers a unique and highly collaborative environment for medical science discoveries with nine teaching and research hospitals and the University of Toronto, Canada’s largest university, in proximity. SickKids is fully affiliated with the University of Toronto, and SickKids researchers benefit from the extensive research facilities of the University and other affiliated institutions.

Our Commitment to Diversity

SickKids is strongly committed to diversity within its community and especially welcomes applications from racialized persons, persons of colour, women, Indigenous/Aboriginal Peoples of North America, persons with disability, 2SLGBTQIA+persons, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas. If requested, SickKids is proud to make available accommodations to support applicants with disabilities during the interview and assessment process. Informed by the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), the Ontario Human Rights Code, and our Access and Accommodation Policy, we will accommodate the needs of applicants. Please email [e-mail] of your accessibility needs during the recruitment process. Information received relating to accommodation will be addressed confidentially. The Hospital for Sick Children also recognizes that scholars have varying career paths. Candidates are encouraged to explain any personal circumstances to allow for a fair assessment of their application.

Application Process

Interested applicants should e-mail their application (Curriculum Vitae, detailed research plan, leadership experience and vision, and equity, diversity and inclusion statement) in PDF format, to Dr. Stephen Scherer, Chief of Research, at [e-mail] by the close of the search on September 30, 2025. The search committee will begin to review applications in October with a potential start date in Spring / Summer 2026. Applicants must also arrange to have three signed letters of reference on institutional letterhead sent directly to [e-mail], indicating the applicant’s name in the subject line.

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 candidates are encouraged to apply; however, in accordance with Canadian immigration requirements, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.

Applicants may direct informal inquiries to: [e-mail].