Postdoctoral Fellowship in RNA Therapy for Islet & Beta Cell Biology

Posted on December 22nd,

Montreal Clinical Research Institute (IRCM) - Montreal, QC, Canada
Full-time 
Application Deadline: Mar 1, 2026

RNA Therapeutics Development and In Vivo Beta Cell Targeting 

The Estall Lab, within the Cardiometabolic Health Centre of the IRCM, invites applications for a Postdoctoral Fellowship in islet and beta cell biology, with a specialized focus on RNA therapeutics development and in vivo beta cell targeting. Our lab is dedicated to uncovering innovative strategies to treat diabetes through precise modulation of beta cell function and survival.

Research Focus 

This academic- and industry-funded position offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge projects aimed at:

• Developing and evaluating the biological and physiological effects of novel RNA therapeutics designed to enhance beta cell function and mass

• Designing and implementing strategies for in vivo targeting of beta cells

• Characterizing islet and beta cell responses to therapeutic interventions in preclinical models

• Employing advanced in vivo imaging, delivery technologies, and functional assays

 

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Cell Biology, Physiology, Molecular Biology, Pharmacology, or a related field

• Research experience in islet biology is a strong asset, including techniques such as glucose tolerance testing, insulin secretion assays, and islet isolation and culture

• Hands-on experience with in vivo models of diabetes or disease (e.g., STZ, NOD, or dietinduced obesity models) is required

• Expertise in mRNA-LNP and other modalities of RNA therapeutics will be favoured

• Experience with cell culture and standard molecular biology techniques (e.g. Western blotting, ELISAs, immunostaining, flow cytometry, cell signaling) is required

• Expertise in endocrine physiology and metabolic disease will be favoured

• Excellent problem-solving abilities, a strong work ethic, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively

 

We Offer

• A vibrant research environment with access to state-of-the-art facilities

• A lab with strong expertise in diabetes and islet biology, and a highly collaborative and dynamic team.

• Affiliation with the University of Montreal or McGill University

• Medical and dental benefits (through university affiliation)

• Mentorship from established leaders in diabetes and beta cell biology (CIRTN network membership)

• Opportunities for authorship, conference travel, industry internships, and career advancement

• Competitive salary range: $45,000 – 80,000 / yr (based on experience and expertise in required skills). Starting two-year contract with opportunities for renewal.

How To Apply: 

To Apply Start date is flexible, but ideally before March 1 st 2026.

Interested candidates should send a cover letter summarizing research interests and relevant experience, a current CV, and contact details for three references to:

 

Dr. Jennifer Estall 

[email protected]

Lab Website: https://diabetesresearch.ca/

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Join our mission to translate scientific discovery into transformative diabetes therapies.