Canada's Michael Smith Genome Sciences
Vancouver
, British Columbia
Canada
Research Associate
PhD, Postdoctoral
Job Reference: Job Reference No. RA_R00006_POG_2025_08_26
Summary
The Research Associate will work within the Clinical Informatics team as part of the Personalized OncoGenomics Program (POG). The goal of this program is to develop cutting-edge approaches to aid in the determination of relevant therapeutic options based on the genomic and transcriptomic information derived from a patient’s tumour. Working under the supervision of the Principal Investigator and the Group Leader, the Research Associate will be responsible for analyzing, interpreting and communicating cancer genomic data into research reports. The analyst will also be involved in collaborative research analysis activities relating to the development, implementation and assessment of bioinformatic tools. The ideal candidate is passionate about genomics, translational research and impacting cancer patient care.
Duties include:
- Individualized analysis and interpretation of patient tumour whole genome and transcriptome sequencing data to evaluate cancer-associated pathways and identify potential clinically actionable targets.
- Communication of genomic findings to clinical teams in the form of written reports and oral presentations to a weekly molecular tumour board group.
- Providing scientific direction, leading data analysis and preparation of manuscripts and/or presentation of research papers.
- Performing literature review and identifying, collecting and analyzing internal and external datasets, and bioinformatics tools.
- Testing and making use of software for inclusion into research projects.
Skills and Abilities:
- PhD in molecular genetics, molecular biology, genomics, bioinformatics or related field.
- Broad understanding of human molecular genetics and cancer biology.
- Experience working with human genomic data, particularly next generation sequencing data including WGS, RNAseq, nanopore, methylation.
- Experience with a common programming language (e.g. Python or R).
- Excellent oral and written communication.
- Organization skills with the ability to efficiently manage time and workflow, including skillfully prioritizing both long-term projects and day-to-day responsibilities.
- Ability for critical thinking and motivated by team collaboration.
- Excited about improving and innovating cancer genomics analysis to impact patient care.
Canada’s Michael Smith Genome Sciences Centre (GSC)
Today’s Research. Tomorrow’s Medicine.
The GSC is a department of the BC Cancer Research Institute and a high-throughput genome sequencing facility. We are leaders in genomics, proteomics and bioinformatics in pursuit of novel treatment strategies for cancers and other diseases.
Among the world’s first genome centres to be established within a cancer clinic, for more than two decades our scientists and innovators have been designing and deploying cutting-edge technologies to benefit health and advance clinical research.
Among the GSC’s most significant accomplishments are the first publication to demonstrate the use of whole-genome sequencing to inform cancer treatment planning, the first published sequence of the SARS coronavirus genome and major contributions to the first physical map of the human genome as part of the Human Genome Project.
By joining the GSC you will become part of an exceptional and diverse team of scientists, clinicians, experts and professionals operating at the leading edge of clinical research. We look for people who share our core values—science, timeliness, respect—to join us on our mission to use genome science for the betterment of health and society.
Benefits:
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, development, and recognition programs that honour the commitment and contribution of all employees.
- 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, which includes statutory benefits – Canada Pension Plan, Employment Insurance and WorkSafe BC plus the BC Cancer group benefits plan which includes medical & dental extended health, and group life insurance coverage, 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).
- Access to WorkPerks, a premium discount program offering a wide range of local and national discounts on electronics, entertainment, dining, travel, wellness, apparel, and more.
Job Type:
Temporary Full-Time, 7.5 hrs. per day
Hybrid
Salary Range:
$74,618 – $107,264 p.a.
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.
Higher salary offers above the midpoint range require additional review and approval.
Apply
Please submit a detailed cover letter and resume to bcgscjobs@bcgsc.ca, using Job Reference No. RA_R00006_POG_2025_08_26 in the subject line of your email.
While we value and review all applications, please note that due to the volume of submissions only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. This posting will remain online until the position is filled.
All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority.
Important!
COVID-19 vaccines protect against infection from severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-Cov-2) that causes COVID-19.
The COVID-19 vaccine has been added to the list of high-priority immunizations recommended for health-care workers. Health care workers should ensure they are up-to-date on all routine immunizations.
Please note all jobs at the GSC are based in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Flexible work options may be available for this position upon request and is subject to change in accordance with GSC’s operational needs and PHSA’s Flexible Work Options Policy.
We believe that equity, diversity and inclusivity are essential for the advancement of human knowledge and science.
We welcome all applicants and provide all employees with equal opportunity for advancement, regardless of race, colour, ancestry, place of origin, political belief, religion, marital status, family status, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, conviction of a criminal or summary conviction offence unrelated to their employment.
personalized oncogenomics
genomic and transcriptomic information
research analysis
bioinformatics
translational research
whole genome
molecular genetics
cancer biology
WGS
RNAseq
nanopore
methylation
Python
R
cancer genomics
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