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Dedicated exclusively to children and their families, The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) is one of the largest and most respected paediatric healthcare centres in the world. As innovators in child health, we lead and partner to improve the health of children through the integration of healthcare, leading-edge research and education. SickKids is committed to ongoing learning and development, and features a caring and supportive work environment that combines exceptionally high standards of practice.

We are currently seeking outstanding young scientists to join our research group as a Postdoctoral Fellow; focusing on stem cells and early embryo development. Our research involved understanding early mammalian development, leading to improved human pluripotent and totipotent stem cell derivation and differentiation. This work can then translate into improved reproductive technologies, and novel stem cell-derived therapies for human disease.

We are currently offer two highly connected research projects:

1. Project #1 Analyzing the role of physical forces in early embryo
The study of biophysical interactions in development is a vital component of understanding blastocyst morphogenesis. We will combine FRET-based molecular tension sensors with manipulation of tensile forces in embryos and isolated blastomeres to study the dynamics of physical forces during morphogenesis. The effects of mechanical forces on the outputs of the signaling pathways known to be important in lineage development will be analyzed.

2. Project #2. Exploring the relationship between zygotic genome activation and pluripotency
Zygotic genome activation at the 2-cell stage precedes and is required for the later activation of the lineage specifiers of the pluripotent and trophectoderm fate. Two-cell blastomeres are fully totipotent but later cells show progressive restriction of cell fate. We will explore this relationship at the detailed single cell molecular level and use the information to explore the possibility of stably maintaining a totipotent stem cell state. We will use high content cell-based screens in ES cells with small molecule inhibitor or activator libraries targeting pathways identified by our studies of ZGA regulation and early lineage activation.

Applicant Criteria:
• PhD with previous postgraduate training in cell biology, molecular biology, bioengineering, systems biology or a closely related field. 
• Prior experience with stem cells, development, molecular genetics and/or bioinformatics would be an asset
• Experience in any relevant model organism considered Prior first author publications are highly desirable.
• Must be self-motivated, well-organized, highly independent, and willing collaborate with other researchers.
• Excellent communication, written and interpersonal skills are mandatory.
• A detailed CV and the names and contact information for at least three references should accompany the application.
• Candidates with external funding or scholarships to help support their salary will be favoured.