Project Title:

Bison Integrated Genomics and Assisted Reproductive Technologies for Germplasm Biobanking (BIG ART)

Primary Purpose: 

Bison are an integral part of the ecology of Canadian national parks. Parks Canada, along with other bison management agencies, requires genomic tools to provide solutions to manage zoonotic diseases and improve gene flow among herds without the risk of introducing disease.

The overall goal of the BIG project is to ensure the existence of healthy, genetically diverse bison, without domestic cattle or subspecies introgression, and with long-term sustainable genetic diversity in Canada’s bison herds. The specific objectives for this position are to facilitate the establishment of a bison genome biobank through:

Collection of bison semen and oocytes from isolated conservation herds for in-vitro embryo production, germplasm cryopreservation and dissemination Refinement and validation semen and embryo disinfection techniques to prevent disease transmission Management of genomic and germplasm data to ensure genetic composition and genetic diversity of bison subspecies.

Nature of Work: We are looking for energetic and productive postdoctoral fellow who possesses laboratory skills related to assisted reproductive technologies.

Typical Duties or Accountabilities: 

The successful candidate will become an integral part of our team, design and conduct experiments, analyze and interpret data, and publish research findings. He/she will assist in the coordination and daily operation of a research project, including the research activities of collaborators (Toronto Zoo); be involved in various grant-related activities, and preparation of research reports and manuscripts for publication.

Qualifications

Education: Ph.D. degree in the general field of reproductive physiology, with emphasis on embryology and/or theriogenology. A degree in Veterinary Medicine will be an advantage but not required. Preference will be given to candidates who are within three years of their PhD

Experience:  To enhance the multidisciplinary aspect of our research team, we are looking for a postdoctoral fellow who has laboratory expertise with in

Field collection of oocytes for in vitro embryo production, Validation of embryo disinfection to prevent disease transmission In vitro exposure in-vivo documentation of effectiveness by embryo transfer (ET) In vivo potential exposure in-vivo documentation of effectiveness 

The successful candidate will have expertise in data analysis/interpretation, publication of results in the scientific literature, and a valid driver’s license.

Additional Skills: Strong interpersonal skills, excellent written and oral communication skills, team building and problem-solving skills.

To Apply:

Qualified candidates are invited to e-mail to Reshma Rizvi, Scientific Project Manager (reshma.rizvi@usask.ca) the following documents:

A cover letter outlining research interests and goals Curriculum vitae with a detailed list of research skills relevant to the position Contact information for three referees