Research Associate (Term) - Muscle stem cell mechanobiology

Date Posted: 08/25/2025
Req ID: 44947
Faculty/Division: Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering
Department: Institute of Biomedical Engineering
Campus: St. George (Downtown Toronto)

Description:

The Institute of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Toronto invites applications for the position of a Full Time Research Associate (2 Year Term). The incumbent will work under the supervision of Associate Professor Penney M. Gilbert within the interdisciplinary environment of the Donnelly Centre. They will execute a research program that integrates advanced microscopy with biomaterial and molecular tools to define the physical forces presiding over murine muscle stem cells in their native (in vivo) skeletal muscle tissue niche, and the molecular implications of these forces on muscle stem cell fate.

Further responsibilities will include ordering project related supplies, preparing and filing animal use protocol updates and/or renewals (as needed), organizing meetings of the research team, collecting and interpreting data and generating data visualizations to prepare reports and peer reviewed publications, writing grant reports and peer reviewed publications.

The Research Associate Term position will be responsible for:

• Developing and executing research vision with PI to achieve research goals
• Communicating with international collaborators
• Producing reports and proposals
• Managing and leading research meetings
• Contributing to research proposal development, conducting research, preparing presentations and publications where appropriate
• Providing support with grant applications where appropriate
• Providing technical support to junior scientists in the area of advanced microscopy image acquisition and data analysis
• The Research Associate is expected to publish in journals and present at conferences

Qualifications:

Education

PhD in a STEM-related field with demonstrated expertise in advanced microscopic methods applied to cell and molecular biology. A degree specialization in applied physics is required.

Experience

• Minimum three years of postdoctoral (or equivalent) research experience in academia

• Minimum 2 years demonstrated experience studying cellular and molecular mechanisms regulating tissue specific stem cells in the context of an animal model is required.
• Minimum of 6-months of demonstrated experience in the skeletal muscle research field.

• Demonstrated experience with advanced microscopy methods (confocal, FRET microscopy, super resolution (SIM, PALM, STORM, expansion microscopy)) as well as live microscopy
• Experience in conducting data-driven research involving images and/or time-series

• Demonstrated ability to conduct interdisciplinary research
• Demonstrated experience in developing and executing interdisciplinary projects, including identifying research opportunities, defining objectives, and managing collaborations with relevant stakeholders.
• Interest in research training is desired and prior demonstrated experience training junior researchers is preferred.

Skills

• Effective verbal and written communication skills
• Strong technical and analytical skills with solid understanding of adult stem cell biology, FRET and super resolution microscopy
• Strong technical writing and research communication skills in an academic context.
• Capable of managing multi-institutional projects and facilitating collaboration.
• Proficient in image analysis tools including ImageJ, Metamorph and Cell Profiler.
• Proficient in customized image analysis programming and macro coding, including with AI-based tools.
• Demonstrable ability to apply initiative, tact, judgement, and accuracy with meticulous attention to detail.
• Must be comfortable working with laboratory mice with prior experience preferred.

• Intermediate skill level with MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, Powerpoint), Prism, Illustrator, and Matlab softwares.
• Superior problem solving and interpersonal skills with a demonstrated positive attitude and service orientation towards students, staff and the public.
• Proven capability to work independently, with instruction, and within a team environment.
• Proven ability to organize, multi-task, manage conflicting priorities and meet all deadlines while quickly adapting and learn new processes.
• Demonstrated commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion and the promotions of a respectful and collegial learning and working environment.

Notes: This a 2-year limited term position, with the possibility of renewal

Closing Date: 09/04/2025, 11:59PM ET
Employee Group: Research Associate
Personnel Subarea:Research Assoc
Appointment Type: Grant - Term
Schedule: Full-Time
Pay Scale Group & Hiring Zone: R01 -- Research Associates (Limited Term): $53,520 - $100,350
Job Category: Research Administration & Teaching