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 national 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 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 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 with in
- Field collection of oocytes for in vitro embryo production,
- Validation of embryo disinfection to prevent disease transmission:
- In vitro exposure in-vivo documentation of effectiveness by embryo transfer (ET)
- 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 to Reshma Rizvi, Scientific Project Manager ( reshma.rizvi@usask.ca ) the following documents:
- A cover letter outlining research interests and goals
- Curriculum vitae with a detailed list of research skills relevant to the position
- Contact information for three referees
Department: Veterinary Biomedical Sciences
Status: Term
Employment Group: Postdoctoral Fellows - PSAC
Full Time Equivalent (FTE): 1.0
Salary Information: The starting salary will be commensurate with education and experience.
Posted Date: 4/15/2025
Closing Date: 4 Weeks. 5/12/2025
Number of Openings: 1
Work Location: On Site
The University is committed to employment equity, diversity, and inclusion, and are proud to support career opportunities for Indigenous peoples to reflect the community we serve. 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 an accommodation to participate in the recruitment process, please notify us and we will work together on the accommodation request. We continue to grow our partnerships with Indigenous communities across the province, nationally, and internationally and value the unique perspective that Indigenous employees provide to strengthen these relationships. Verification of Indigenous Membership/Citizenship at the University of Saskatchewan is led and determined by the
deybwewin | taapwaywin | tapwewin: Indigenous Truth policy and Standing Committee in accordance with the processes developed to enact the policy. Successful candidates that assert Indigenous membership/citizenship will be asked to complete the verification process of Indigenous membership/citizenship with documentation. 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.
