Postdoctoral Research Fellow – DNA/Aptamer Chemist at University of British Columbia – Canada

Summary

The University of British Columbia’s Perrin Laboratory seeks a Postdoctoral Research Fellow specializing in DNA/aptamer chemistry. The fellow will design, synthesize, modify, and characterize DNA aptamers aimed at prostate cancer therapeutics. Working on‑site in Vancouver, the role involves experimental design, analytical purification, biophysical binding studies, and collaborative projects with protein biochemists, molecular biologists, and imaging scientists. The 12‑month fixed‑term position offers a salary of $55,000‑$65,000 CAD per year, with the possibility of extension, and provides training in advanced nucleic‑acid techniques and translational cancer research.

Key Facts

Department	Department of Chemistry
Position Type	Full-Time
Discipline	Nucleic acid chemistry, aptamer chemistry, chemical biology
Research Area	Nucleic acid-based targeting agents for prostate cancer treatment
Salary	$55,000 – $65,000 CAD per annum
Funding	Salary $55,000 – $65,000 CAD per annum
Contract Duration	12 months with possibility of extension
Deadline	2026-10-23
Employer Contact	Perrin Laboratory / David Perrin (perrin.chem.ubc.ca)

About the Project

The project focuses on creating nucleic‑acid‑based targeting agents for prostate cancer. It involves designing DNA aptamers with enhanced affinity, selectivity, and stability, chemically modifying them for therapeutic or imaging purposes, and quantitatively characterizing aptamer‑protein interactions using techniques such as SPR, BLI, and ITC. The ultimate goal is to translate aptamer chemistry into viable cancer treatment strategies.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and synthesize DNA aptamers and modified oligonucleotides
• Perform chemical modification and functionalization of aptamers
• Purify and analytically characterize synthesized oligonucleotides (HPLC, LC‑MS)
• Conduct biophysical assays to quantify aptamer‑protein interactions
• Carry out structure‑function studies and optimize aptamer properties
• Develop and optimize aptamer selection (SELEX) and conjugation strategies
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary team members across biochemistry, structural biology, and imaging
• Independently design experiments and troubleshoot protocols

Required Skills

• Experience with solid‑phase oligonucleotide synthesis
• Proficiency in HPLC and LC‑MS analytical techniques
• Ability to perform SPR, BLI, MST, or ITC binding assays
• Knowledge of SELEX and aptamer selection processes
• Strong chemical synthesis and modification expertise
• Data analysis and interpretation of biophysical results
• Independent experimental design and problem‑solving
• Effective collaboration within multidisciplinary research teams

Who Should Apply

Candidates who have completed a PhD in chemistry, chemical biology, biochemistry or a related field and possess experience in DNA/aptamer synthesis, modification, and analytical characterization are encouraged to apply.

About the Employer

University of British Columbia (UBC) is a public research university in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, noted for strong research funding, world‑class facilities, and comprehensive postdoctoral support programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the salary range for this position?

$55,000 – $65,000 CAD per annum.

When is the application deadline?

The posting end date is October 23, 2026.

What is the contract duration?

The contract is for 12 months with the possibility of extension.

Where is the position located?

UBC Vancouver Campus, Vancouver, BC, Canada.