Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Machine Learning for Genomics, Transcriptomics, and Bioinformatics Full-time

Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Machine Learning for Genomics, Transcriptomics, and Bioinformatics

The School of Biomedical Engineering at the University of British Columbia, Vancouver campus is seeking one postdoctoral fellow to join our dynamic team in the AI in Medicine Lab. This position is based in the School of Biomedical Engineering.

The successful candidate will work in the AI in Medicine Lab, applying machine learning to cutting-edge problems in cancer genomics, transcriptomics, spatial transcriptomics, and large-scale bioinformatics. This role focuses on developing and applying AI and deep learning techniques for analyzing high-dimensional omics data, identifying predictive biomarkers, and understanding cancer heterogeneity. Projects include modeling of bulk and single-cell transcriptomic profiles, integrative multi-omics analysis, and the fusion of molecular data with clinical and imaging features.

The successful candidate will report to the Principal Investigator (Director of AI Research at OVCARE, Dr. Ali Bashashati).

Responsibilities:

• Designs and implements machine learning models for bulk and single-cell genomics and transcriptomics.
• Analyzes spatial transcriptomic datasets to uncover tissue organization and disease states.
• Develops integrative models combining genomics with pathology images or time-series data.
• Participates in large collaborative studies, manuscript and grant writing.
• Mentors junior trainees and coordinate with clinicians and research partners (for senior roles).

Qualifications and requirements:

• Ph.D. in bioinformatics, computer science, computational biology, or a related field, obtained within the last 5 years by the time of the appointment start date.
• Strong experience in deep learning applied to high-dimensional omics datasets.
• Familiarity with transcriptomic analysis tools (e.g., Seurat, Scanpy, DESeq2).
• Experience with spatial transcriptomics and multi-modal data integration is highly desirable.
• Proficient in Python, R, and ML libraries such as PyTorch or TensorFlow.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills; ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Willingness to respect diverse perspectives, including perspectives in conflict with one's own.
• Demonstrates a commitment to enhancing one's own awareness, knowledge, and skills related to equity, diversity, and inclusion.

How to apply:

Important: Applications will only be reviewed if BOTH of the following steps are completed:

• Apply through the UBC system
• Fill out this mandatory form

The expected pay for this position is $70,000 per year + benefits.

The initial appointment will be for 16 months commencing on March 16, 2026 or a mutually agreed upon date with a possibility for extension, subject to satisfactory performance and funding availability.

Questions:

If you have any questions about the positions or the application process, please send contact ali.bashashati@ubc.ca & h.farahani@ubc.ca.

Review of applications will begin on March 1, 2026 and continue until the position is filled. The anticipated start date for this position is March 16, 2026 or on a date to be mutually agreed.

We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, particularly those from equity-deserving groups. We are committed to creating inclusive spaces that foster innovation through diverse perspectives and experiences.

We invite applications from qualified candidates who share our commitment to employment equity and inclusive excellence, and we welcome applications from candidates belonging to historically, persistently, or systemically marginalized groups: Indigenous (First Nation, Métis, Inuit) Peoples, racialized persons, persons with disabilities, women, 2SLGBTQIA+ people, and trans and non-binary people.

The University is committed to creating and maintaining an inclusive and equitable work environment for all members of its workforce. An inclusive work environment presumes an environment where differences are appreciated, recognized, and integrated into current structures, planning, and decision-making modes. Within this hiring process we are committed to creating an inclusive and equitable process for all candidates (including but not limited to people with disabilities). Confidential accommodations are available on request. If you have any questions regarding accommodations or accessibility during the recruitment and hiring process or for more information and support, please visit UBC's Centre for Workplace Accessibility website or contact the Centre.

We acknowledge that UBC's Vancouver campus is located on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) people. As scientists and engineers, we are committed to responsible and respectful research practices on this land.