National Research Council Canada
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Postdoctoral Fellow in Molecular Tools for Harmful Algae and Toxin Detection National Research Council Canada in Canada
Degree Level
Postdoc
Field of study
Biochemistry
Funding
This is a two-year salaried postdoctoral fellowship appointment with benefits. The salary range is $83,985 to $116,641, with an average starting rate of $83,985 for new PhD graduates, subject to experience and qualifications. Benefits include a pension plan, health and dental coverage, disability and life insurance, and other employee supports. Fellows also receive a travel fund to support their work. Relocation assistance may be available under NRC directives.
Deadline
Jan 7, 2027
Country
Canada
University
National Research Council Canada
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About this position
The National Research Council Canada is recruiting a Postdoctoral Fellow in Halifax, Canada, through its Metrology Research Centre. The two-year project, Innovating Algal Biotoxin Surveillance Through Digital Immuno-Polymerase Chain Reaction, will develop molecular and analytical tools for detecting harmful algal blooms and cyanobacterial toxins.
The fellow will establish droplet digital PCR assays targeting toxin-biosynthesis genes, then develop immuno-ddPCR methods that combine antibody-based toxin recognition with quantitative amplification. Work will include method optimization and validation using cultures and marine and freshwater environmental samples, with possible multiplexed detection. The research supports improved surveillance, risk assessment, public health, water-resource protection, and food security.
Applicants should hold a recent PhD in molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related field, or expect to complete one within six months of appointment. Strong experience in DNA/RNA extraction, PCR/qPCR/ddPCR, primer design, experimental research, harmful algae or cyanobacteria, immunoassays, coding, data handling, and bioinformatics is expected. The position requires full-time physical presence in Halifax and English-language proficiency.
The appointment offers a salary of $83,985–$116,641, benefits, and a travel fund. Applications must include a resume, one-page statement of interest, PhD transcript, and publication list. The closing date is 7 January 2027.
Funding details
This is a two-year salaried postdoctoral fellowship appointment with benefits. The salary range is $83,985 to $116,641, with an average starting rate of $83,985 for new PhD graduates, subject to experience and qualifications. Benefits include a pension plan, health and dental coverage, disability and life insurance, and other employee supports. Fellows also receive a travel fund to support their work. Relocation assistance may be available under NRC directives.
What's required
Applicants must hold a PhD in molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related field, obtained within the past three years (on or after July 1, 2024) or expected within six months of appointment. Significant experience is required in DNA/RNA extraction; PCR including qPCR, ddPCR, and primer design; experimental design, laboratory equipment planning, experiment execution, data collection and analysis, and reporting through presentations and publications. Experience with harmful algae and cyanobacteria, including species identification, enumeration, and culturing; immunoassay development and application; data handling, coding, and bioinformatics is required. English is required. Applicants must meet Reliability Status requirements, including verification of background information for the preceding five years, and must provide a resume, one-page statement of interest, PhD transcript, and publication list. Three recommendation letters may be requested later.
How to apply
Apply through the NRC recruitment portal using the Apply now link. Attach a resume, a maximum one-page statement of interest in the project, PhD transcript, and publication list; include citizenship information. Applicants advancing in the competition may later be asked for three recommendation letters.
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Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.