"SCIENTIST – Developmental, Stem Cell & Cancer Biology Program"

The Developmental, Stem Cell & Cancer Biology (DSCB) Program at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) invites applications for a Scientist position at the SickKids Research Institute, with an affiliation to the Arthur and Sonia Labatt Brain Tumour Research Centre (BTRC). Applications with discovery-based and/or translational research programs using model organism genetics and/or stem cell and organoid platforms to study the developmental and stem cell origins of paediatric cancer will be considered. Although not mandatory, prior experience in experimental brain tumour research is preferred. The successful applicant will be appointed as a full-time Scientist within the DSCB and BTRC programs at SickKids, with an academic cross-appointment as an Assistant or Associate Professor at the University of Toronto (UofT).

The successful candidate will establish an independent research program using their model systems to initiate and maintain an original, competitive, and independently funded research group that would complement and enhance our existing strengths in developmental biology, model organism genetics, stem cell biology, brain tumour research, and regenerative medicine.

Candidates must hold a PhD, MD or MD/PhD degree with significant postdoctoral experience (3-5 years) and a proven record of outstanding scientific accomplishments in aforementioned research areas. Applicants are expected to demonstrate evidence of publications in leading journals, presentations at significant conferences, and increasing leadership experience in a research team. If an applicant is a practicing MD, the successful candidate must obtain an appropriate Certificate of Registration from the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (license to practice) and a valid visa, as applicable.

The research program will be housed within the Arthur and Sonia Labatt Brain Tumour Research Centre space at the SickKids Research Institute in the state-of-the-art Peter Gilgan Centre for Research & Learning (17th floor, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, Canada), located in the Discovery District in the heart of downtown Toronto. SickKids is affiliated with the UofT - Canada’s largest and top-ranked university, and our researchers benefit from the extensive research facilities at the UofT and other affiliated institutions. The position offers a unique environment for medical science discoveries, with nine teaching and research hospitals in proximity.

Collegial interaction will be an important element in success. The successful candidate will be responsible for: (a) direct supervision of students, postdoctoral fellows, and research associates; and (b) working with students/post-docs to prepare scientific manuscripts, grant applications, and/or drafts of patent applications. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. A competitive benefits package is being offered along with support for relocation expenses. The position offers the opportunity to conduct research, teach, and live in one of the most vibrant, safe and diverse cities in the world.

The Hospital for Sick Children acknowledges that scholars have diverse career paths and that career interruptions resulting from personal circumstances can be part of an exceptional academic record. Candidates are encouraged to explain any personal circumstances to allow for a fair assessment of their application.

Application Process

Interested individuals should email their application to: Chair, DSCB Search Committee at dscb.recruitment@sickkids.ca.

The application must include (PDF format only) curriculum vitae, description of past research, research plan (3-5 pages), one page EDI statement and PDF copies of three representative publications. Three letters of reference (indicating applicant’s name in subject line) should be emailed directly by the referees to the above email address. The application should be emailed by the close of the search on December 31, 2025. The search committee aims to interview applicants in January/February 2026 until the position is filled with a potential start date in Summer 2026.

Our Commitment to Diversity

SickKids believes that diversity positively impacts science and is essential to sustain our vibrant world-leading research community. As part of the application process, you will be asked to complete a brief voluntary diversity survey. Any information directly related to you is confidential and cannot be accessed by either the search committee or human resources staff. Results will be aggregated for institutional planning purposes. The self-identification information is collected, used, disclosed, retained and disposed of in accordance with the Privacy Act and the Access to Information Act. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply; however, in accordance with Canadian immigration requirements, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority. Only those applicants selected for the interview will be contacted.

SickKids is firmly committed to diversity within its community and especially welcomes applications from racialized persons/persons of colour, women, Indigenous / Aboriginal People of North America, persons with disabilities, 2SLGBTQIA+ persons, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas. If requested, SickKids is proud to make available accommodations to support applicants with disabilities during the interview and assessment process. Informed by the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), the Ontario Human Rights Code, and our Access and Accommodation Policy, we will accommodate the needs of applicants. Please email faculty.office@sickkids.ca with your accessibility needs during the recruitment process. Information received relating to accommodation will be addressed confidentially.