Research Associate in Next-Generation RNA Therapeutics

University of British Columbia; Vancouver; On-site; CAD 76,000 - 79,000; Full time

Job summary

A top academic institution in Vancouver seeks a Research Associate to advance research in RNA therapeutics and cellular regulation. The ideal candidate will hold a PhD and have expertise in pre-clinical model development and advanced imaging techniques. This role offers a chance to engage in high-impact projects within a collaborative environment.

Benefits

Opportunities for collaboration with world-class researchers

Qualifications

• Outstanding publication record in relevant fields.
• Strong experience in pre-clinical model development.
• Evidence of leadership in mentoring and interdisciplinary project management.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize in vitro and in vivo models for RNA formulations.
• Investigate metabolic signaling pathways regulating immune responses.
• Conduct advanced imaging and bioenergetic profiling for therapeutic evaluation.

Skills

Advanced imaging techniques

Mitochondrial assays

Translational research impact

Cellular adaptation methods

Education

PhD in biophysics, biochemistry, molecular biology or related field

Job description

Academic Job Category Faculty Non Bargaining Job Title Research Associate in Next-Generation RNA Therapeutics Department Research | Blakney | Michael Smith Laboratories | Faculty of Science (Anna Blakney) Posting End Date November 16, 2025 Note: Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on the Posting End Date. Job End Date January 31, 2027 The expected pay range for this position is $76,128 to $79,000 per year

Project

Mitochondrial metabolism, cellular bioenergetics, and tissue-level adaptation are increasingly recognized as central to therapeutic efficacy in regenerative medicine and immune modulation. This project will develop and optimize in vitro and in vivo models for studying mitochondrial dynamics and cellular response to RNA formulations. It will investigate the role of metabolic and redox signaling pathways in regulating cell fate, immune responses, and functional recovery, and apply advanced imaging techniques such as confocal microscopy and fluorescence lifetime imaging along with bioenergetic profiling methods including OCR, ECAR, ROS, and membrane potential measurements to evaluate therapeutic effects. The work will also explore how RNA-based therapies can be integrated with photobiomodulation and metabolic modulation strategies, directly informing the design of RNA medicines by linking molecular regulation of energy metabolism to functional outcomes in pre-clinical models.

Candidate

The ideal candidate will hold a PhD in biophysics, biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related biomedical science, with an outstanding publication record. They will bring advanced expertise in pre-clinical model development, including in vitro systems and rodent studies. They will have strong experience in mitochondrial assays, advanced imaging techniques, angiogenesis and tissue regeneration methods, and molecular approaches to studying cellular adaptation. Evidence of translational research impact, including patent drafting, grant writing, and the ability to bridge discovery research with therapeutic applications, will be highly valued. The candidate must also demonstrate leadership in mentoring trainees and managing interdisciplinary projects, and will thrive as a creative, collaborative scientist with excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

Opportunity

This position offers a unique opportunity to advance cross-disciplinary research linking RNA therapeutics with cellular and metabolic regulation, while contributing to high-impact translational projects at the interface of RNA medicines, metabolism, and regenerative biology. The successful applicant will join a vibrant, collaborative environment at UBC’s Michael Smith Laboratories and will benefit from opportunities to engage with world-class researchers in nanomedicine and gene delivery. UBC is a center of excellence for growing your career in nanomedicine and gene delivery technologies, and you will have opportunities to collaborate with world-class leaders in the field through the Nanomedicine Innovation Network.

Application Process

Interested applicants should submit a CV and cover letter that details their experience and contact details for 3 references. Application materials should be submitted to the UBC Careers portal no later than the posting end date.

Employment

The appointment will be for one year commencing February 1, 2026 with a possibility for extension, subject to satisfactory performance and funding.

Equity and Diversity

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.

Pay Range

The expected pay range for this position is $76,128 to $79,000 per year.