Graduate Student - PEDV Coronaviruses
Location: 120 Veterinary Road, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
About the Organisation
The Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO), Canada’s Centre for Pandemic Research, is a world leader in infectious disease research and vaccine development for humans and animals. Located at the University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon, Canada, VIDO is home to one of the largest and most advanced containment level 3 facilities in the world. To strengthen the preparedness for emerging infectious diseases we are currently expanding our infrastructure to include containment level 4 capacity, a GMP vaccine manufacturing facility, and a new animal housing facility. Our vision includes having the capacity to study any emerging disease in any animal model embracing a One Health approach to prevent emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases in humans and animals.
About the Role
Dr. Qiang Liu, Principal Investigator, is seeking a highly motivated graduate student at the MSc or PhD level to work on molecular biology of porcine coronavirus.
Coronaviruses, such as porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), can cause devastating losses of the economy. Although vaccination is the most effective mitigation means, no vaccines are available to provide complete immunoprotection. As such, understanding the molecular mechanisms of the virus-host interaction will provide novel avenue for vaccine and antiviral development. The purpose of this project is to study how PEDV RNA replication and translation are modulated upon virus-host interactions. The project will combine approaches in virology, and molecular cellular biology.
The candidate will be provided a stipend and will also be expected to apply for internal and external scholarships.
Requirements for the Role
Qualifications
- BSc or MSc degree in microbiology, virology, biochemistry, or relevant biomedical sciences (received in the past 3 years)
- Fluency in English and excellent communication skills
Key criteria for the assessment of applicants
- Professional qualifications relevant to the project
- Relevant work experience
- Scientific publications when applicable
- Participation in professional activities such as conferences, workshops
- Communication skills
Formal requirements
The position is available for a 3-year or 4-year period for applicants holding a relevant bachelor or master´s degree.
The successful applicant will be requested to formally apply for enrolment as a MSc or PhD graduate student at the University of Saskatchewan according to the rules stipulated in the guidelines for the Graduate Program at the College of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies.