Tenure-track Assistant Professor in Gene-Nutrient Interactions in Human Health and Development

F01300-2023-40

The Department of Biochemistry invites applications for a tenure-track position at the level of Assistant Professor in “Gene-Nutrient Interactions in Human Health and Development”. The Department of Biochemistry currently offers an undergraduate degree program in Human Biosciences. In addition, robust graduate programs in both Human Biosciences and Food Sciences are offered. This position is a cornerstone of the department’s strategic plan to provide world-class, inclusive education in Human Biosciences. The Department of Biochemistry has identified “Molecular Biochemistry of Life Processes” and “Nutritional Biochemistry” as primary research foci for future development, with a particular focus on the molecular basis of human health and disease.

The successful applicant will be expected to develop an independent, externally funded research program that studies the relationship of gene-nutrient interactions to human health, chronic disease, and/or development throughout the lifespan. This research program should use cutting edge molecular and/or cellular biology techniques. The exact research specialization within these general areas is open but those studying gut microbiome and nutrients in host gene expression, trans-generational effects of nutrition on epigenome/epigenetics, the relationship of diet to genetic risk factors of disease, or in-born errors of metabolism are particularly encouraged to apply. The successful candidate should utilize a variety of experimental approaches but it is expected that their research program will have significant pre-clinical (i.e. animal and/or cellular models) and/or translational aspects. It is also envisaged that through the establishment of new collaborations, the successful applicant will further strengthen ties between the two research foci in the Department, as well as strengthening ties within the wider Faculty of Science and other units on campus such as the School of Human Kinetics and Recreation, the Faculty of Medicine, and the School of Pharmacy. The successful applicant will be required to contribute to teaching and supervision in the Human Biosciences undergraduate program, as well as to graduate degree course offerings, particularly in the areas of nutrient metabolism and human gene regulation.

 Applicants should have a strong research background with a Ph.D. and post-doctoral training in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Nutrition, Human Biosciences, or closely related fields with a strong record of publications. A demonstrated track record of or potential for teaching excellence in Human Biosciences would be an asset. Interested applicants should submit a 1) cover letter, 2) full CV, 3) summary of proposed research (no more than three pages), 4) description of teaching and mentoring philosophy (no more than three pages), 5) statement outlining their EDI philosophy, commitment and implementation strategy (no more than 1 page) and 6) a list of at least three referees with complete contact information. Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN) has an established policy for spousal appointments, so if this is of interest to the candidate, please include in the cover letter.

 The Department of Biochemistry is in an active phase of faculty renewal and moved to a new state-of-the-art facility in 2021. MUN has a strong commitment to interdisciplinary research and teaching. The successful applicant is encouraged to strengthen and expand departmental ties with other disciplines locally, nationally, and internationally through research and/or pedagogy-focussed collaborations. The Department is committed to increasing diversity; to support this goal, a team approach to mentorship and many additional supports for new academic staff are provided. As part of the commitment of the Department of Biochemistry to equity, diversity and inclusion, the hiring committee will implement best practices to reduce unconscious bias and to ensure that initial shortlisting of candidates includes those from under- represented target groups at the level they exist in the applicant pool according to Statistics Canada.

 
All parts of the applications should be submitted as a single pdf document to Dr. Robert Bertolo, Head of Department, at biochem@mun.ca by no later than Dec 1, 2023, using the subject heading “Gene-Nutrient Interaction tenure-track position”. We thank all interested applicants, but only those selected for interview will be contacted further. The position is subject to budgetary approval. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority.

 
Memorial University is committed to employment equity, diversity, inclusion and anti-racism, and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, including: women; people of any sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression; Indigenous Peoples; visible minorities, and racialized people; and people with disabilities. All applicants are invited to identify themselves as a member of an equity-deserving group(s) as appropriate. Applicants cannot be considered as a member of an equity-deserving group(s) unless they complete an employment equity survey. Memorial is committed to providing an inclusive learning and work environment. If there is anything we can do to ensure your full participation during the application process please contact equity@mun.ca directly and we will work with you to make appropriate arrangements.

 

MUN is the largest university in Atlantic Canada. As the province’s only university, we play an integral role in the education and cultural life of Newfoundland and Labrador. Offering diverse undergraduate and graduate programs to almost 18,000 students, MUN provides a distinctive and stimulating environment for learning in St. John’s, a safe friendly city with great historic charm, a vibrant cultural life and easy access to a wide range of outdoor activities.

We acknowledge that the lands on which Memorial University's campuses are situated are in the traditional territories of diverse Indigenous groups, and we acknowledge with respect the diverse histories and cultures of the Beothuk, Mi'kmaq, Innu, and Inuit of this province.

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