Postdoctoral Fellow in Islet Biology

University of Alberta

  • Edmonton, AB
  • Permanent
  • Full-time
  • 1 month ago
DescriptionThis position is part of the Post Doctoral Fellows Association and has an initial appointment of two years, with the possibility of renewal.This position has a comprehensive .Location - This role is in-person at North Campus, Edmonton.Working at the University of AlbertaThe University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, Métis, Inuit and all FirstPeoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide.Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people - from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. .Working for the Department of PharmacologyThe University of Alberta in Edmonton, a top teaching and research university in Canada, boasts an international reputation in the humanities, sciences, creative arts, business, engineering, and health sciences.The Department of Pharmacology, part of the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, is well-funded by provincial, national, and international agencies, maintaining a strong research profile. Collaborations with other departments and institutions in Canada and internationally are common. Research strengths include molecular, neuropharmacology, cardiovascular, diabetes, and obesity pharmacology.The Alberta Diabetes Institute (ADI), one of Canada's largest diabetes research institutes, supports research in Population Health, Risk and Prevention, Immunology and Cell Therapies, Nutrition, Physical Activity, Clinical Trials, and Islet Cell Biology. An active Trainee Working Group fosters a vibrant research community through events and activities, while core resources like histological services, molecular facilities, and cellular imaging support researchers. Islet Biology is a growing focus, particularly with recent recruitments and infrastructure support through the Canada Excellence Research Chair in the Islet Microenvironment program.Position SummaryThe MacDonald Lab (www.bcell.org) at the Alberta Diabetes Institute would like to hear from postdoctoral candidates with a keen interest in advancing understanding of insulin and other hormones, as well as the function of pancreatic islets. Diverse backgrounds, skill sets and experiences are welcome, and we are particularly interested in hearing from candidates keen to lead in one of the following projects:
  • The molecular regulation of insulin secretion. In particular, the characterization of new (unpublished) transgenic models to study SENP1 (e.g. PMID: 38184650)
  • The development of novel approaches to assessing the human pancreas, including live pancreas slice methodologies that may include cellular imaging or labelling approaches
  • Leveraging complex multi-modal phenotyping data to develop new benchmarking tools (e.g. via
; PMID: 39357523)Our team combines senior scientists, technical staff, fellows, and trainees who investigate islet cell physiology. In addition to Institute and Faculty resources, we have developed a number of key programs to support our researchers. These include a world-leading human pancreas and islet biobanking program ( ), internal bioinformatics support, and training and networking supports through our leading role in the Canadian Islet Research and Training Network ( ).DutiesSpecific duties will depend on the project focus decided on in consultation with the supervisor, but may include:
  • Project management, including setting, tracking and evaluating project goals
  • Establishing collaboration, both internal and external to the research group
  • Data analysis and/or bioinformatics, as appropriate to the project
  • Presentation at lab meetings, institutional meetings, and external conferences
  • Writing and publishing research results
  • In vivo and in vitro animal experiments, including glucose and insulin tolerance and studies on isolated islets
  • Experiments on human pancreas and islet tissue
Minimum Qualifications
  • A recent (within 5 years) or soon-to-be-completed PhD in a relevant field
  • Evidence of high-quality scholarly research relevant to the project
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience and knowledge in the field of diabetes, and pancreas or islet biology
  • Experience handling complex datasets
How to Apply:To apply, please submit the following in a single .PDF document:
  • Cover Letter
  • Curriculum Vitae
At the University of Alberta, we are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates. If you require accommodations to participate in the interview process, please let us know at the time of booking your interview and we will make every effort to accommodate your needs.We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.All University employees have a responsibility to foster a workplace that prioritizes safety in all its forms-physical, cultural, and psychological. This is achieved by promoting a safe environment, adhering to all safety laws, policies and procedures, completing all required safety training, identifying hazards and implementing controls, reporting incidents, and contributing to a culture of inclusivity and respect, while endeavoring to ensure that all colleagues feel valued and safe to express their thoughts, perspectives and concerns.The University of Alberta is committed to creating a university community where everyone feels valued, barriers to success are removed, and thriving connections are fostered. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women, First Nations, Métis and Inuit persons, members of visible minority groups, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression, and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and the University to apply.L'Université de l'Alberta s'engage à créer une communauté universitaire où chaque personne se sent valorisée, où les obstacles à la réussite sont éliminés et où des connexions enrichissantes peuvent se développer. Nous accueillons les demandes de toutes les personnes qualifiées. Nous encourageons les femmes; Premières nations, Métis et Inuits; membres des groupes minoritaires visibles; personnes handicapées; personnes ayant une orientation sexuelle ou une identité et une expression sexospécifique; et tous ceux qui peuvent contribuer à la diversification des idées et à l'université à postuler.Note: This opportunity will be available until midnight September 26, 2025, Edmonton, Alberta local time.

University of Alberta