Postdoctoral Fellowship: RNA Dynamics, Trafficking, and Tissue-Optimized RNA Design

Posted on December 18th, 2025

The School of Biomedical Engineering (SBME) at the University of British Columbia invites applications for a full-time Postdoctoral Research Fellow jointly supervised by Dr. Sarah Hedtrich and Dr. Eric Jan. This position focuses on understanding and engineering mRNA dynamics and intracellular trafficking to develop tissue-optimized RNA cargo for next-generation gene therapies. The role is part of a broader three-year initiative to advance RNA-based therapeutic design.

Research Focus

This interdisciplinary project will investigate the intracellular dynamics and kinetics of gene editors and RNA molecules to improve the precision and efficacy of gene therapies.

Key Responsibilities

  • Elucidate mechanisms of intracellular RNA trafficking using biomolecular assays and high-resolution imaging.
  • Characterize tissue- and cell-specific RNA dynamics to inform the design of optimized RNA constructs.
  • Contribute to the preclinical development of local gene-editing strategies aimed at treating severe monogenic epithelial diseases, with emphasis on the skin and lungs.

Environment and Collaboration

The Hedtrich and Jan labs offer a dynamic, collaborative environment at UBC’s Vancouver campus. Our teams are dedicated to developing innovative, localized gene-delivery and gene-editing platforms (including base and prime editing) to treat life-threatening genetic disorders of epithelial tissues. Our shared goal is to create effective, potentially curative therapeutic options for patients for the first time.

Our projects have a strong translational aspect with the ultimate goal to translate our technology from bench-to-bedside. Hence, interest in translational work at the forefront of science is a clear asset and people with entrepreneurial interests are encouraged to apply. Further, the establishment of an research independent profile as well as career-planning advice will be offered to the successful incumbent. These projects provide the opportunity to closely work with world-leading scientists and companies in the area of gene editing and drug delivery.

Qualifications

  • PhD in biomedical engineering, pharmaceutical sciences, biochemistry, or a related field with relevant experience (obtained within the last 5 years).
  • Strong background in gene therapies, RNA biochemistry and molecular biology and/or imaging.
  • Applicants with experience in (primary) cell culture work and gene therapies will be preferred.
  • Demonstrated experience in biomolecular methods.
  • Proven ability to work across disciplinary boundaries and within collaborative research environments.
  • Commitment to equity, inclusion, and respectful engagement with diverse perspectives.
  • Willingness to respect diverse perspectives, including perspectives in conflict with one’s own.
  • Demonstrates a commitment to enhancing one’s own awareness, knowledge, and skills related to equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Position Details

  • Start Date: February 1, 2026 but flexible.
  • Term: One year, renewable based on performance and funding availability and compliance with UBC policies.
  • Expected salary range: $65,000–$75,000 CAD per annum, commensurate with experience.

How to Apply:

Submit a single PDF including:

Cover letter (2 pages max) outlining your research interests and fit for the position Curriculum vitae with publication list Contact information for 3 academic references

Applications should be submitted via UBC Workday Careers.

https://wd10.myworkday.com/ubc/d/inst/9925$55557/rel-task/2998$16774.htmld

For any inquiries regarding this position, please contact

Dr. Sarah Hedtrich – [email protected]
Dr. Eric Jan – [email protected]

Review of applications will continue until the position is filled.