We are seeking two highly motivated Postdoctoral Fellows to join an exciting interdisciplinary project investigating how aging of the haematopoietic microenvironment influences stem cell health and the earliest events in leukaemia development.
- One successful candidate will explore how extracellular vesicles (EVs) from the blood and bone microenvironment regulate haematopoietic stem/progenitor cell function during aging, with a particular focus on the stress-response regulators p53 and HSF1. Using primary human HSPCs, functional and molecular assays, single-cell approaches and xenograft mouse models, the project will determine how age-associated EV signalling affects stem cell quiescence, proliferation and long-term engraftment. This position offers an opportunity to work at the interface of stem cell biology, aging, extracellular vesicles and cancer, uncovering mechanisms that may explain how an aging bone microenvironment creates conditions that favour malignant transformation.
- The second candidate will explore mitochondrial metabolism and exercise intersect to influence the earliest stages of leukaemia development. The successful candidate will investigate how circulating and bone microenvironment-derived EVs alter haematopoietic stem/progenitor cell mitochondrial function, including the PGC-1α regulatory axis. The project will also examine whether exercise can reshape EV proteomic signatures and restore cellular bioenergetics, providing new mechanistic insight into how lifestyle interventions could reduce leukaemia risk. This position offers an opportunity to work at the interface of stem cell biology, cancer, extracellular vesicles, metabolism and exercise physiology, with strong potential for clinically relevant discoveries.
Role Description
Postdoctoral Researchers will lead an independent research project and contribute to collaborative projects within the group. Responsibilities include designing and conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, preparing manuscripts for publication, and assisting in the development of grant proposals.
We offer a competitive salary plus benefits
Work week is 37.5 hours/week
Qualifications
- PhD degree in disciplines related to biomedical research and extracellular vesicles and or leukaemia.
- Demonstrated scientific productivity and a minimum of 2 peer-reviewed publications in international journals.
- Excellent laboratory and research skills.
- Expertise in microscopy, basic biochemistry and cell biology techniques.
- Effective teaching skills, including mentoring students and presenting scientific concepts.
- Proven ability to multi-task in a deadline oriented environment with minimal supervision
- Effective oral and written communication, analytical, and interpersonal skills
- Excellent organizational skill and ability to learn new skills quickly
- Ability to work independently and within a team environment.
- Accuracy and attention to detail required
- Candidates should demonstrate the ability to work in a highly interdisciplinary environment.
Preferred Start Date: January 2027
To Apply: Forward your CV, a cover letter that outlines your career objectives and why you are a good fit for one of the projects, and contact information for three references to:
Sheela Abraham
Sa183@queensu.ca
Closing date: Position open until filled
We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.
About Queen's University and Kingston
Queen's University is a leading research-intensive university located in Kingston, Ontario, Canada. With a strong tradition of research excellence, Queen's provides a collaborative and interdisciplinary environment where postdoctoral researchers can develop their expertise, build professional networks, and advance toward independent research careers. Postdoctoral fellows benefit from access to outstanding research facilities, a vibrant academic community, and professional development opportunities across the University.
Queen's is situated in Kingston, a welcoming and historic city on the shores of Lake Ontario. Kingston combines the cultural and recreational opportunities of a larger urban centre with the convenience and community atmosphere of a smaller city. The city offers a lively downtown, restaurants and cafés, waterfront trails and parks, arts and cultural activities, and easy access to the outdoors.
Kingston is also conveniently located between Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal, making it well positioned for both professional connections and travel. For researchers relocating from elsewhere in Canada or internationally, Queen's offers a diverse academic community and resources to help postdoctoral fellows establish themselves at the University and in Kingston.
Together, Queen's University and Kingston offer an excellent environment in which to pursue ambitious research, develop new collaborations, and enjoy a high quality of life while taking the next step in an academic or research career.