Research Associate

The University of British Columbia (UBC); Canada; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 80,000; Part time

Job summary

A leading educational institution invites applications for a part-time Research Associate position in the Food Protein Biophysics Laboratory starting January 1, 2026. The role involves conducting biochemical and biophysical analyses, preparing protein samples, and coordinating with core facilities. Candidates should possess a PhD in a relevant field, with experience in proteomics and biochemical assays. This opportunity is located at UBC's Vancouver campus, promising collaboration in a dynamic research environment.

Qualifications

• Expertise in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Food Science, or similar.
• Experience in proteomics using LC-MS/MS and protein sample preparation.
• Characterization of protein structure and stability through various assays.

Responsibilities

• Prepare protein samples and conduct biochemical and biophysical analysis.
• Coordinate with UBC core facilities for analyses.
• Write reports and assist in grant proposals.

Skills

Chemistry

Biochemistry

Food Science

Proteomics using LC-MS/MS

Biochemical assays

Bioinformatics

Bioconjugate chemistry

Microbial challenge tests

Education

PhD degree in Microbiology or Biochemistry

Tools

LC-MS/MS

SDS‑PAGE

CD analysis

Fluorescence

FTIR

Calorimetry

Light scattering

NMR

TEM

AFM

Job description

The University of British Columbia (UBC)

Organisation/Company The University of British Columbia (UBC) Research Field Agricultural sciences Researcher Profile Leading Researcher (R4) Established Researcher (R3) Country Canada Application Deadline 31 Dec 2025 - 22:00 (UTC) Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Hours Per Week 40 Offer Starting Date 1 Jan 2026 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Reference Number EU-58902 Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Offer Description

The Faculty of Land and Food Systems (Food, Nutrition and Health Program) at the University of British Columbia (Vancouver campus) invites applications for a part-time Research Associate (80%). This is a three-month position starting January 1, 2026 with the possibility for renewal. The position will report to the PIs (Derek Dee and Rickey Yada) in the Food Protein Biophysics Laboratory.

The expected pay for this position is $4,595.57 per month.

Responsibilities

The Food Protein Biophysics Laboratory uses biophysical tools and protein engineering to study protein folding and aggregation, particularly amyloid fibrils (aka nanofibrils). Under the direction of the Principal Investigators, the Research Associate (RA) will prepare protein samples and conduct biochemical and biophysical analysis, coordinate with UBC core facilities to perform CD analysis and LC-MS/MS analysis, provide project management; write interim and final project reports for funding agency; train and mentor students and other researchers; assist with grant proposals, prepare manuscripts and present results at conferences; assist with recombinant protein production; and conduct microbial challenge tests.

Qualifications

We seek candidates with expertise in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Food Science, or similar, with experience in proteomics using LC-MS/MS, protein sample preparation (e.g., extraction, purification, buffer exchange), and characterization of protein structure and stability using various biochemical and biophysical assays (e.g., SDS‑PAGE, CD, fluorescence, FTIR, calorimetry, light scattering, NMR, TEM, AFM, etc.). Experience with other approaches, such as bioinformatics and bioconjugate chemistry for labelling proteins would be an asset.

Preferred Qualifications:

• PhD degree in Microbiology, Biochemistry or related area
• Experience working in and knowledge in the field
• At least three years postdoctoral experience in the field
• A competitive record of publications in reputable scientific journals
• Demonstrated capacity to pursue independent research
• Experience leading research projectsDemonstrated ability to work in a multi-disciplinary, highly collaborative environment

This posting is for the UBC Vancouver campus in British Columbia, Canada.

Please refer to reference number EU-58902 during correspondence about this position.

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 Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.

About UBC
The University of British Columbia is a global centre for research and teaching, consistently ranked among the top 20 public universities in the world. Since 1915, UBC's entrepreneurial spirit has embraced innovation and challenged the status quo. UBC encourages its students, staff and faculty to challenge convention, lead discovery and explore new ways of learning. At UBC, bold thinking is given a place to develop into ideas that can change the world.

About Vancouver
Vancouver is a dynamic, cosmopolitan and progressive city, consistently ranked as one of the top cities to live in the world. Canada's third largest city has it all: sea, parks, mountains, beaches, and four seasons per year, including beautiful summers and mild, wet winters with snow in the mountains. It's the perfect backdrop to your academic research.