Research Opportunities in MCB

The lab of Dr. Siavash Vahidi is recruiting two MSc and two PhD graduate students to begin Winter, Summer, or Fall 2027.

Description

The Vahidi Lab, led by Dr. Siavash Vahidi in the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology at the University of Guelph, studies biomolecular machines in health and disease. We combine structural mass spectrometry, cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), X-ray crystallography, and de novo protein design to understand how large proteolytic enzyme complexes are regulated and how they can be controlled therapeutically. Our mass spectrometry methods include hydrogen–deuterium exchange (HDX-MS), native MS, and charge-detection MS (CDMS). The laboratory hosts a beta CDMS instrument from Waters Corporation, the first of its kind deployed in Canada.

A tight collaboration network. Our work is carried out with close partners at the University of Toronto, McGill University, the University Health Network, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, and the Waters Corporation, together with colleagues across the University of Guelph. Trainees gain shared expertise in NMR, medicinal chemistry, cancer biology, and instrument development, providing a direct path from structure to drug discovery.

MSc positions

Contribute to a focused project characterizing a proteolytic enzyme complex using HDX-MS, native MS, and biochemical assays, with training in cryo-EM, X-ray crystallography, and protein design.

PhD positions

Lead an independent, publication-oriented project that integrates structural mass spectrometry (including CDMS) with cryo-EM, Xray crystallography, and de novo protein design to define how protease complexes function and are modulated.

Funding

All positions are fully funded at the tri-council level. MSc students are guaranteed a minimum of 6 semesters of support, and PhD students a minimum of 12 semesters.

Requirements

Independent and self-motivated applicants with a strong background in biochemistry, chemistry, biophysics, molecular biology, or a related discipline. Past laboratory experience (an undergraduate research project, volunteering, or similar) is an asset, as is familiarity with protein biochemistry, mass spectrometry, cryo-EM, X-ray crystallography, or computational protein design. Graduate positions are open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents. Other strong candidates are also welcome to apply.

Applying

Please send applications to Dr. Siavash Vahidi at svahidi@uoguelph.ca and indicate the position (MSc or PhD) in the subject line. Graduate applicants should submit a CV, an unofficial transcript, a letter describing their research interests and career goals, and contact information for two referees. Review of applications begins immediately and continues until the positions are filled.

At the University of Guelph, fostering a culture of inclusion is an institutional imperative. Applicants from all backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply, including those from historically underrepresented backgrounds.

The labs of Dr. Jessica Breznik and Dr. Melanie Alpaugh are recruiting an MSc graduate student to begin Winter 2027.

Description

Increasing evidence implicates inflammation as a major contributor to dysfunction of the blood brain barrier and the development of brain disorders including Parkinson’s disease. Exercise is beneficial for individuals living with Parkinson’s disease and a known modulator of inflammation. Using human cohort samples, this project will use a combination of immunological methods and cell culture models to examine how peripheral inflammation – and its modulation by exercise – impacts the blood brain barrier in individuals living with Parkinson’s disease. This will involve methods such as flow cytometry, human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived microfluidic 3D cell culture, Western blotting, and immunofluorescent microscopy. The successful applicant will contribute to this overall research objective by evaluating peripheral blood immune cell profiles as well as effects of immune cells on blood-brain barrier integrity and neuronal health and function.

Funding

Masters students in the College of Biological Science at the University of Guelph are funded at a minimum of $24,258 per year.

Requirements

This is a co-supervised position. The Breznik-Alpaugh labs are looking for a dedicated and hard working student who is passionate about understanding immunological contributions to neurological diseases and eager to work in a collaborative environment. The successful applicant will be performing experiments with human samples and therefore a willingness to work with human blood and tissues is expected. Any previous experience working on human studies, flow cytometry, or with complex cell culture systems will be considered as an asset. Other methods will include assays such as Western blots, ELISAs, and immunofluorescence microscopy, so experience with such techniques is also preferred.

Applying

Interested individuals may apply by submitting a complete application package as a single PDF file to Dr. Jessica Breznik (jbreznik@uoguelph.ca). Only complete applications will be considered for this position. Applications will be reviewed and potential candidates will be contacted on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Potential candidates must indicate their current work permit / residency / citizenship status and confirm that they are able to begin the position in January 2027. A complete application package includes:

• A cover letter including a description of previous research experience and future career goals
• A curriculum vitae
• Unofficial transcripts from all postsecondary education
• Names and contact information for 2 referees

We invite and encourage applications from all qualified individuals, including from groups that are traditionally underrepresented in higher education.

The lab of Dr. Georgina Cox is recruiting graduate students to begin in 2026 and 2027. Interested applicants should visit https://www.coxlab.ca/job-opportunities and contact gcox@uoguelph.ca for further information.

The lab of Dr. Baozhong Meng is recruiting two MSc graduate students to begin Fall 2026.

Description

The Meng lab is a world leader in grapevine virology, focusing on the molecular and cellular biology, organelle targeting, and virus-host interactions of economically significant viruses that impact the grape and wine industry. Successful candidates will contribute to cutting-edge projects involving members of the Closteroviridae and Betaflexiviridae families of ssRNA viruses, with a specific focus on:

• Viral replication complexes: Exploring the organelle targeting, biogenesis, structure and composition of replication machinery in members of the Closteroviridae, with emphasis on Grapevine leafroll-associated virus 3.
• Reverse genetics: Utilizing our newly developed infectious cDNA clones and GFP-tagged variants to study long non-coding RNA sequences, viral movement and pathogenesis.
• VIGS development: Optimizing virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) vectors for functional genomics in grapevine.

The Meng lab is a part of the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology (MCB), one of the largest departments on campus with diverse expertise in molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry and structural biology. MCB offers a highly conducive and collaborative environment ideal for students learning and personal growth. We also have easy access to multiple cutting-edge facilities and equipment available in the Advanced Analysis Centre housed within the same Science Complex where MCB is located, featuring:

• High-Resolution Imaging: TEM, SEM, and Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy.
• Omics Platforms: State-of-the-art Genomics, Mass Spectrometry, and Bioinformatics support.
• Plant Growth Facilities: Greenhouse, Growth chambers, Environmental rooms, and Tissue Culture suite.

Funding

Masters students in the College of Biological Science at the University of Guelph are funded at a minimum of $24,258 per year.

Requirements

• Education: A BSc in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, or a related field from a recognized university (minimum 70–75% average in the last two years).
• Research experience and technical skills: A solid foundation in molecular techniques (PCR, cloning, protein analysis). Prior research experience in a laboratory setting is highly desirable.
• Soft Skills: Strong interest for research, desire to learn and grow, excellent communication skills, and the ability to work effectively within a diverse team of graduate students and other researchers.

Applying

Interested applicants should email the following documents to Dr. Baozhong Meng (bmeng@uoguelph.ca):

• Cover letter outlining research interests and relevant experience.
• Resume highlighting your education background, research experience, and any publications or conference presentations you may have.
• Academic transcripts for your undergraduate degree program
• Contact information for 2-3 academic/professional references.

Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis until the positions are filled.

The lab of Dr. Jessica Breznik is recruiting a postdoctoral fellow to begin June 2027.

Description

The successful applicant will:

1. Examine cellular immunity in individuals with multiple myeloma
2. Assess effects of immunotherapies on memory responses after infection and immunization.

The successful applicant will work at the University of Guelph and Hamilton Health Sciences (McMaster University). The project will involve significant wet-lab work (i.e., assay development and implementation), data analysis, as well as writing (i.e., systematic review, SOPs, manuscripts). The successful application will have the opportunity to shape the development of this research project based on their interests and expertise.

The anticipated start date for this position is June 1, 2027. The initial contract will be for one year, with the possibility of extension depending on productivity.

Funding

This position is dependent on a successful competitive fellowship application.

Requirements

Must have:

• Completed PhD degree no earlier than January 1, 2024.
• Passion for scientific discovery and evidence of productivity in the form of first-author publications in a relevant field.
• Experience with collaboration on team projects / on multidisciplinary teams.
• Experience with research in immunology.
• Expertise in flow cytometry.

Nice to have experience in:

• Human immunology / cancer immunology.
• Clinical research.
• Science communication.

Applying

Potential applicants are requested to apply without delay. Interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis until a qualified candidate is chosen for the fellowship application.

Please send to Dr. Breznik (jbreznik@uoguelph.ca) as a single PDF file:

• A cover letter outlining your interest, skills, and career goals. Also specify current permit / residency / citizenship status to work in Canada.
• A sample of your writing (e.g., first-author publication, thesis, other).
• Full academic curriculum vitae (note that a C.V. is not equivalent to a resume).
• Names and email addresses of 2 references.

Only complete applications sent in single file format will be considered for this position. Applications are encouraged from all qualified individuals, including from groups that are traditionally underrepresented in higher education.

The lab of Dr. Siavash Vahidi is recruiting two postdoctoral positions to begin in 2027.

Description

The Vahidi Lab, led by Dr. Siavash Vahidi in the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology at the University of Guelph, studies biomolecular machines in health and disease. We combine structural mass spectrometry, cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), X-ray crystallography, and de novo protein design to understand how large proteolytic enzyme complexes are regulated and how they can be controlled therapeutically. Our mass spectrometry methods include hydrogen–deuterium exchange (HDX-MS), native MS, and charge-detection MS (CDMS). The laboratory hosts a beta CDMS instrument from Waters Corporation, the first of its kind deployed in Canada.

A tight collaboration network. Our work is carried out with close partners at the University of Toronto, McGill University, the University Health Network, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, and the Waters Corporation, together with colleagues across the University of Guelph. Trainees gain shared expertise in NMR, medicinal chemistry, cancer biology, and instrument development, providing a direct path from structure to drug discovery.

The role

Drive a major research direction, develop and apply advanced MS, cryo-EM, crystallographic, and protein design methods, contribute to manuscripts and grants, and help mentor graduate students.

Requirements

PhD in biochemistry, biophysics, chemistry, structural biology, or a related field, with a strong publication record and hands-on experience in one or more of mass spectrometry (HDX-MS, native MS, or CDMS), cryo-EM, X-ray crystallography, computational protein design, or protein biochemistry. Computational skills and data analysis experience are an asset.

Applying

Please send applications to Dr. Siavash Vahidi at svahidi@uoguelph.ca and indicate the position (Postdoctoral) in the subject line. Postdoctoral applicants should submit a CV with a publication list, a letter describing their research experience and interests, and contact information for at least two referees. Review of applications begins immediately and continues until the positions are filled.

At the University of Guelph, fostering a culture of inclusion is an institutional imperative. Applicants from all backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply, including those from historically underrepresented backgrounds.