Assistant Professor, Canada Research Chair Tier 2 in System-Based Approaches to Cancer Biology

The Departments of Biochemistry and Microbiology and Physics and Astronomy in conjunction with BC Cancer Victoria, invite applications from external candidates for a Tier 2 Canada Research Chair (CRC) in System-Based Approaches to Cancer Biology.  This CRC recruitment is part of a broad strategy to expand and raise the profile of health research and strengthen partnerships at UVic.  The successful applicant will be nominated by the University for a Tier 2 CRC and, upon approval by the CRC Secretariat, will then be offered a position at the rank of Assistant Professor eligible for tenure.  The anticipated start date is July 1, 2024.

Tier 2 Canada Research Chairs are one of Canada’s premier early career recognition and recruitment programs, and are intended for exceptional emerging scholars (i.e., candidates must have been an active researcher in their field for fewer than 10 years at the time of nomination). However, applicants who are more than 10 years from having earned their highest degree (and where career breaks exist) may have their eligibility for a Tier 2 Chair assessed through the program’s Tier 2 justification process. The CRC program has no restrictions with regard to nationality or country of residence of the candidates. For more information on the CRC program generally and on eligibility specifically, please consult the Canada Research Chairs website.

We are seeking a candidate with expertise in novel systems or computational methodologies related to at least one of the following: cancer immunology, radiation therapy, Monte Carlo modeling, multi-omic analysis of cancer therapies, nanomedicine, cellular immunotherapies, small biological immune modulators, and/or advanced imaging of therapeutics, diagnostics, or oncologic mechanisms. Applicants with a record of accomplishment applying machine learning and artificial intelligence to assess combinatorial therapies to understand the complex networks within the tumor microenvironment are particularly encouraged to apply.  

The ideal candidate will have a proven record and be an emerging world-class researcher in systems or computational approaches to understanding cancer biology. They will have extensive expertise in applying novel system-based approaches and/or computational methodologies to understanding cancer biology, particularly the biophysical and molecular underpinnings of therapy resistant cancer.  They will demonstrate research creativity, have a comprehensive understanding of the field, and propose an original, creative research program with potential to achieve international recognition in areas that complement and synergize with the existing strengths at the University of Victoria and BC Cancer. This will be evidenced by high quality publications as lead author and/or experience with clinical trials and clinical cohort data analysis, reference letters, and the ability to clearly articulate a competitive research plan. The successful nominee will have a PhD and post-doctoral training in an appropriate discipline and contributions through non-academic or advocacy publications are considered assets.  

Candidates must demonstrate the potential for excellence in teaching, mentoring, and advising, as well as clear support for diversity and inclusiveness in teaching and research. Candidates will be expected to contribute in a professional and collegial way to a healthy workplace that promotes diversity, equity inclusion and a collaborative environment.

In accordance with the University’s Equity Plan and pursuant to Section 42 of the BC Human Rights Code, preference will be given to members of the following groups: Indigenous peoples, Black persons, persons with disabilities, members of visible minorities, women. Candidates from these groups who wish to qualify for preferential consideration must self-identify in their cover letter. In the event that the Committee does not find a suitable candidate in the initial pool, it will review all other applications. 

Candidates should submit a single PDF document that includes a cover letter that addresses the full scope of the job requirements, CV, and a 2-page description articulating their proposed research program and how it complements current UVic strengths.  

Candidates must also provide an additional 2-page summation of the following: a statement on their teaching experience and teaching philosophy, and a statement of equity, diversity and inclusion in teaching and research. Candidates must arrange for letters from 3 referees to be emailed to the Department Chair (biocmicr@uvic.ca) by the closing date of July 31, 2023.   

Please note that reference checks will be done and background checks, including credential and degree verification, may be undertaken as part of this recruitment process.