Department: Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine
Location: University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5B4
Status: 2 years (maximum of 2 years)
Employment Group: Post-Doctoral Fellow (PDF), in the scope of the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC), Local 40004
Full Time Equivalent (FTE): 1
Salary Information: The starting salary is $42,500 but a higher salary will be considered depending on the experience.
Posted Date: 15/04/2025
Closing Date: 13/05/2025
Number of Openings: 1
Work Location: On Campus
Project Title:
Bison Integrated Genomics and Assisted Reproductive Technologies for Germplasm Biobanking (BIG ART)
Primary Purpose:
Bison are an integral part of the ecology of Canadian Parks. Parks Canada, along with other bison management agencies, requires genomic tools to provide solutions to manage zoonotic diseases and improve gene flow among herds without the risk of introducing disease.
The overall goal of the BIG project is to ensure the existence of healthy, genetically diverse bison, without domestic cattle or subspecies introgression, and with long-term sustainable genetic diversity in Canada’s bison herds. The specific objectives for this position are to facilitate the establishment of a bison genome biobank through:
· Collection of bison semen and oocytes from isolated conservation herds for in-vitro embryo production, germplasm cryopreservation, and dissemination
· Refinement and validation of semen and embryo disinfection techniques to prevent disease transmission
· Management of genomic and germplasm data to ensure genetic composition and genetic diversity of bison subspecies.
Nature of Work: We are looking for an energetic and productive postdoctoral fellow who possesses laboratory skills related to assisted reproductive technologies.
Typical Duties or Accountabilities:
The successful candidate will become an integral part of our team, design, and conduct experiments, analyze and interpret data, and publish research findings. He/she will assist in the coordination and daily operation of a research project, including the research activities of collaborators (Toronto Zoo); be involved in various grant-related activities, and preparation of research reports and manuscripts for publication.
Qualifications
Education: Ph.D. degree in the general field of reproductive physiology, with emphasis on embryology and/or theriogenology. A degree in Veterinary Medicine will be an advantage but not required. Preference will be given to candidates who are within three years of their PhD
Experience: To enhance the multidisciplinary aspect of our research team, we are looking for a postdoctoral fellow who has laboratory expertise within
i. Field collection of oocytes for in vitro embryo production,
ii. Validation of embryo disinfection to prevent disease transmission:
iii. In vitro exposure in-vivo documentation of effectiveness by embryo transfer (ET)
iv. In vivo potential exposure in-vivo documentation of effectiveness
The successful candidate will have expertise in data analysis/interpretation, publication of results in the scientific literature, and a valid driver’s license.
Additional Skills: Strong interpersonal skills, excellent written and oral communication skills, team building and problem-solving skills.
To Apply:
Qualified candidates are invited to e-mail Reshma Rizvi, Scientific Project Manager (reshma.rizvi@usask.ca) the following documents:
1) A cover letter outlining research interests and goals
2) Curriculum vitae with a detailed list of research skills relevant to the position
3) Contact information for three referees
Please review the University of Saskatchewan's health and safety requirements for faculty, staff, and students in consideration of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The University believes equity, diversity, and inclusion strengthen the community and enhance excellence, innovation, and creativity. We are dedicated to recruiting individuals who will enrich our work and learning environments. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, in accordance with Canadian immigration requirements, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority. We are committed to providing accommodations to those with a disability or medical necessity. If you require accommodation in order to participate in the recruitment process, please notify us and we will work together on the accommodation request. The University of Saskatchewan’s main campus is situated on Treaty 6 Territory and the Homeland of the Métis. We pay our respects to the First Nations and Métis ancestors of this place and reaffirm our relationship with one another. Together, we are uplifting Indigenization to a place of prominence at the University of Saskatchewan.
