We are seeking two Postdoctoral Fellows to join our research groups at the BC Cancer Research Institute to develop new radiopharmaceuticals to improve the diagnosis and treatment of hematological and solid malignancies. The selected candidate(s) will contribute to the development of antibody, peptide, or inhibitor-based radiopharmaceuticals. This position offers an excellent opportunity for interaction in a multidisciplinary environment at the interface between radiology, oncology, pharmacology, and medical chemistry.

Preference will be given to applicants with a track record in radiopharmaceutical research. This is a fully funded 2-year position with opportunities for renewal. The postdoctoral fellow positions will be under the supervision of Dr. Joseph Lau and/or Dr. Francois Benard.

Location: Vancouver, BC Canada (on-site)

Responsibilities:

• Synthesis and evaluation of novel theranostics for cancer imaging and treatment.
• Design and construct diverse peptide libraries for screening against cancer-specific targets.
• Optimize protocols for high-throughput screening and selection of peptides.
• Radiolabeling of antibodies, antibody fragments, peptides, and small molecule inhibitors with isotopes, including but not limited to 89Zr, 64Cu, 68Ga, 44Sc, 18F, 155Tb, 99mTc, 111In, 177Lu and 225Ac. Training will be provided as needed.
• Establish in vivo cancer models including patient-derived xenograft models for PET/SPECT imaging and therapy studies. Training will be provided as needed.
• Record and analyze experimental data accurately and efficiently, maintaining detailed records and documentation.
• Assist in the development and optimization of new testing methods and procedures.
• Training and supervision of graduate students and/or research assistants.
• Adhere to safety protocols and guidelines at all times, including proper handling and disposal of hazardous materials.

Qualifications:

• The qualified candidate will have a doctorate degree in a relevant discipline (i.e., Chemistry, Radiochemistry, Biochemistry, or Pharmacology, etc.). Minimum of four years of related experience with a strong research publication record.
• Expertise in peptide library design and construction, including solid-phase peptide synthesis and display technologies (e.g., phage display, mRNA display) is preferred.
• Prior experience with molecular docking is preferred.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Effective communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and prioritize tasks effectively.
• Commitment to upholding quality standards, safety protocols, and regulatory compliance.
• Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of the historic and ongoing impacts of settler colonialism and systemic racism on Indigenous Peoples within social and health contexts. This includes understanding how these factors contribute to current health disparities and barriers to care. Show a clear commitment to identifying, challenging, and eradicating Indigenous-specific racism and all forms of discrimination impacting equity-deserving groups within healthcare settings. This involves recognizing personal biases, institutional barriers, engaging in anti-racism education and training and advocating for systemic change.
• Knowledge and understanding of legislative obligations and provincial commitments within BC Cancer contexts found in the foundational documents including Truth & Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action (2015), In Plain Sight (2020), BC's Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (2019), United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), Reclaiming Power and Place Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women & Girls Calls for Justice (2019), the Declaration Act Action Plan and Remembering Keegan: A First Nations Case Study, BC Human Rights Code, Anti-racism Data Act and how they intersect across the health care system.

Core Competencies:

• Brings an understanding of the Indigenous specific racism and the broader systemic racism that exists in the colonial health care structure and has demonstrated leadership in breaking down barriers and ensuring an environment of belonging. Embed Indigenous Cultural Safety and Humility into all aspects of work. This means creating an environment where Indigenous patients feel respected, valued, and understood. Foster trust through respectful communication, active listening, and honoring equity-deserving people's perspectives on health and wellness. Commit to ongoing education and training on Indigenous health issues, cultural safety, and DEI principles. Participate in workshops, cultural immersion experiences, and continuous professional development to stay informed and responsive to equity-deserving groups. Provide patient-centred care that respects Indigenous ways of knowing and healing, respects BIPOC experiences and world views ensuring that care plans are culturally relevant and holistic.
• Knowledge of social, economic, political and historical realities of settler colonialism on Indigenous Peoples and familiarity with addressing Indigenous-specific anti-racism, anti-racism and Indigenous Cultural Safety and foundational documents and legislative commitments (The Declaration Act, the Declaration Action Plan, TRC, IPS, Remembering Keegan, etc.).

You have:

• Demonstrated deep understanding of their personal learning journey related to Indigenous-specific racism and dismantling systems of oppression, as well as addressing racism more broadly. Able to articulate and share this journey to motivate and inspire others.
• Knowledge of the social, economic, political realities of settler-colonialism and impacts on Indigenous peoples in social and health contexts as well as knowledge and understanding of, and commitment to upholding legislative obligations and provincial commitments in the foundational documents: Truth & Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action (2015), In Plain Sight (2020), BC's Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (2019), United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), Reclaiming Power and Place Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women & Girls Calls for Justice (2019), the Declaration Act Action Plan, Remembering Keegan: A First Nations Case Study, and the Distinctions Based Approach.

What we bring

Every PHSA employee enables the best possible patient care for our patients and their families. Whether you are providing direct care, conducting research, or making it possible for others to do their work, you impact the lives of British Columbians today and in the future. That’s why we’re focused on your care too – offering health, wellness, development programs to support you – at work and at home.

• Join one of BC’s largest employers with province-wide programs, services and operations – offering vast opportunities for growth and development.
• Access to professional development opportunities through our in-house training programs, including +2,000 courses, such as our San’yas Indigenous Cultural Safety Training course, or Core Linx for Leadership roles.
• Enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including municipal pension plan, and psychological health & safety programs and holistic wellness resources.
• Annual statutory holidays (13) with generous vacation entitlement and accruement.
• PHSA is a remote work friendly employer, welcoming flexible work options to support our people (eligibility may vary, depending on position).
• Perks include access to fitness classes and discounts to 350 BC-wide recreational programs, travel, technology, car and bike sharing, and more.

Job Type: Temporary, Full Time (Until March 31, 2026)

Salary Range: $5,000 - $6,250 per month. The starting salary for this position would be determined with consideration of the successful candidate’s relevant education and experience and would be in alignment with the provincial compensation reference plan.

Location: 675 West 10th Avenue, Vancouver BC V5Z 1G1

Applications will be accepted until position is filled.

Hours of Work: Monday to Friday; 0830-1630

Requisition Number: 181057E

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should send a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and contact details for 3 referees to:

Joseph Lau, PhD

Scientist, Integrative Oncology, BC Cancer

Assistant Professor, Radiology, UBC

Email: jlau@bccrc.ca