Postdoctoral Research Fellow in DNA/Aptamer Chemistry – University of British Columbia, Canada

The Perrin Laboratory in the Department of Chemistry at the University of British Columbia (UBC) is seeking a highly motivated and talented Postdoctoral Research Fellow (DNA/Aptamer Chemist). This role is part of a multidisciplinary research initiative focused on developing innovative, nucleic acid-based targeting agents to treat prostate cancer. This position is particularly well-suited for a chemist or chemical biologist looking to apply advanced nucleic acid chemistry to translational cancer research.

Job Overview & Key Details

Job Description & Responsibilities

The successful candidate will focus on the design, synthesis, modification, and biophysical characterization of DNA aptamers. Key responsibilities include:

• Designing and synthesizing DNA aptamers and modified oligonucleotides.
• Performing solid-phase oligonucleotide synthesis, purification, and quality control.
• Executing chemical modifications and functionalization of DNA (incorporating linkers, fluorophores, chelators, and other functional groups).
• Purifying and analytically characterizing samples using HPLC, LC-MS, and related bioanalytical methods.
• Conducting systematic structure-function studies via nucleotide substitutions, truncations, and chemical modifications to optimize affinity, selectivity, and stability.
• Quantifying aptamer-protein interactions utilizing biophysical techniques.
• Conjugating aptamers to imaging or therapeutic payloads.
• Collaborating closely with a multidisciplinary team of protein biochemists, molecular biologists, structural biologists, and imaging scientists.

Eligibility & Qualifications

Candidates must meet the following criteria:

• Education: A PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Biology, Biochemistry, or a closely related field.
• Research Experience: Demonstrated experience (including published work) in several of the following areas:
  • Oligonucleotide/DNA chemistry & solid-phase oligonucleotide synthesis.
  • Nucleic acid modification, conjugation, and SELEX/aptamer development.
  • Protein-ligand binding assays and structure-function analysis of nucleic acids.
  • Bioanalytical techniques such as SPR, BLI, MST, ITC, HPLC, and LC-MS.
• Core Skills: Strong experimental skills, the ability to independently design and troubleshoot experiments, and a collaborative mindset suitable for a fast-paced, multidisciplinary environment.
• Assets (Optional): Prior experience in radiochemistry, chelator chemistry, structural biology, or therapeutic oligonucleotide development is highly desirable but not mandatory.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their application online containing the following documents:

• An up-to-date Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• A detailed Cover Letter explaining your research interests and suitability for the role.
• A statement indicating your legal status to work in Canada.

Note: Screening is ongoing, and applicants selected for further consideration will be contacted directly for an interview via Zoom or Microsoft Teams. Due to the high volume of applications, follow-up emails regarding application status are kindly discouraged.

Equity and Diversity Statement

UBC hires on the basis of merit and is committed to employment equity. While all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority. UBC welcomes and encourages applications from historically marginalized and underrepresented groups.

Apply Link

For more details and to submit your official application, please visit the UBC Careers Portal:

Apply Online for the UBC Postdoctoral Fellow Position