Postdoctoral Fellow, Biophysics & Nanomedicine - Vancouver, BC
Posted: May 23, 2026
Aggregated from workday. View original posting at ubc.wd10.myworkdayjobs.com. Apply directly with the employer.
Posted: May 23, 2026
Aggregated from workday. View original posting at ubc.wd10.myworkdayjobs.com. Apply directly with the employer.
The Michael Smith Laboratories at the University of British Columbia (UBC) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Vancouver, British Columbia. This role is supervised by Dr. Sabrina Leslie, focusing on single-molecule microscopy expertise. The Leslie Lab is a leading group in single-molecule and single-cell biophysics, dedicated to developing advanced imaging technologies. These technologies aim to elucidate complex biological systems with unprecedented resolution, including critical mRNA-LNP (lipid nanoparticle) nanomedicines. This three-year Mitacs-funded collaborative research programme is in partnership with ScopeSys, a Vancouver-based life sciences tools company. The successful candidate will contribute to advancing analytical technologies for RNA-based therapeutics, with a particular focus on lipid nanoparticle (LNP) delivery systems and molecular interaction kinetics. The project will utilise CLiC (Convex Lens-induced Confinement) microscopy, an advanced single-molecule imaging platform that enables direct, real-time measurements of molecular interactions and structures under solution conditions, providing insights into particle-to-particle variability.
The Postdoctoral Research Fellow will focus on several key objectives to advance nanomedicine research. One primary objective involves the high-resolution characterisation of LNP formulations. This includes generating quantitative datasets of particle size distributions and mRNA payload heterogeneity across various clinically relevant LNP formulations, leveraging advanced CLiC-based single-molecule FRET methodologies. A second objective is the development of novel post-formulation labelling strategies. This involves designing, validating, and benchmarking new assays that allow for the specific and sensitive detection of LNPs, mRNA, and other cargo, thereby decoupling LNP formulation from fluorescent labelling. The goal is to produce a high-impact publication and a broadly adoptable methodology. The third objective focuses on the scale-up of measurements. The Fellow will collaborate with a microfluidics engineer and an AI/ML expert within the Leslie Lab to increase the throughput of CLiC single-particle assays on a next-generation, microfluidics-enabled imaging platform, gaining experience in device improvement while focusing on scientific microscopy results.
Candidates must possess a PhD in Physics, Biophysics, Bioengineering, Chemistry, or a closely related field. A strong experimental, hands-on background in quantitative science is essential, coupled with experience in data analysis and scientific programming. We are seeking an excellent team player who demonstrates strong interpersonal communication and relationship-building skills. Preferred candidates will have experience with single-molecule or fluorescence microscopy, a background in microfluidics, nanotechnology, or soft matter systems, and familiarity with interferometric (iSCAT) scattering microscopy. Further preferred qualifications include knowledge of RNA biology or drug delivery systems, programming skills in languages such as Python or MATLAB, and experience with mammalian cell culture, sterile technique, and live-cell imaging.
This Postdoctoral Fellowship is supported by a Mitacs grant in collaboration with ScopeSys. The position offers a minimum salary of $60,000 per year, with the final compensation commensurate with the successful candidate's experience. The start date for this role is negotiable. Initially, the appointment will be for one year, with the possibility of extension for up to three years in total, contingent upon satisfactory performance and continued funding.