Research Associate Position — Viral Diagnostic Technology Development

Research Associate Position — Viral Diagnostic Technology Development 
 
The Unrau Research Group in the Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry at Simon Fraser University invites applications for a Research Associate position available immediately. Review of applications will begin upon receipt and continue until a suitable candidate is identified. 
The successful candidate will contribute to the development of next-generation nucleic acid–based point-of-care diagnostic technologies for viral detection. These projects aim to create rapid, low-cost diagnostic systems capable of sensitive viral nucleic acid detection without reliance on centralized laboratory testing or extensive nucleic acid amplification. The work integrates novel fluorescent nanomaterials, nucleic acid detection chemistry, and portable optical reader systems to enable robust and deployable diagnostic platforms suitable for decentralized testing environments  
The position is supported by active CIHR and NSERC Alliance grants focused on translating nucleic acid sensing technologies into deployable diagnostic devices. The successful candidate will also work within the BEST (Biomedical and Environmental Sensor Training) framework, an interdisciplinary training program that integrates molecular biology, engineering, and sensor technology development and provides opportunities to interact with researchers and trainees working on related diagnostic and sensing platforms. 
 
Required expertise 
 
Applicants should have demonstrated experience in several of the following areas: 
Nucleic acid molecular biology and biochemistry 
Development of nucleic acid diagnostic assays and detection chemistries 
Fluorescent nanomaterials and fluorescence-based optical detection methods (e.g., quantum dots and optical readout systems) 
Design or prototyping of analytical devices or detection instrumentation 
Applicants should hold a PhD in biochemistry, molecular biology, chemical biology, biophysics, biomedical engineering, or a related discipline. 
 
Appointment details 
 
The position is located in the Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry at Simon Fraser University (SFU). The initial appointment is for one year and is renewable depending on performance and funding.  The salary for this position is $65,000 per year. 
SFU is located in Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada - one of the most beautiful and livable areas in the world. The campus sits atop Burnaby Mountain with sweeping views of the Coast Mountains, the Pacific Ocean, and the surrounding forested landscape, offering exceptional opportunities for outdoor recreation and access to a vibrant international research community. 
 
Application instructions 
 
Applicants should submit: 
a curriculum vitae 
a letter (maximum one page) describing their background and explaining why they are a good fit for the position 
contact information for at least two references 
 
Applications should be sent by email: 
 
c/o Mona Wu: [email protected] 
 
BEST Program Coordinator 
Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry 
Simon Fraser University 
8888 University Drive 
Burnaby, BC,  
V5A 1S6 
Canada 
 
 
Applications will be reviewed upon receipt and will continue to be considered until the position is filled. 
 
Equity, diversity and inclusion 
 
SFU is committed to fostering excellence through an inclusive and diverse academic community. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals and encourage candidates from groups historically underrepresented in science and engineering to apply. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, priority will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents in accordance with Canadian immigration requirements.