Research Assistant, Ultrasound Molecular Imaging

Research Assistant, Ultrasound Molecular Imaging

Position Overview

The successful candidate will play a central role in developing and validating a targeted ultrasound molecular imaging contrast agent for detecting and characterizing intestinal inflammation. This project involves nucleic acid chemistry, targeted contrast-agent engineering, in vitro validation, and in vivo imaging studies using clinical and research-grade ultrasound systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and validate a targeted ultrasound molecular imaging contrast agent for IBD.
• Design, synthesize, and characterize nucleic acid–based targeting ligands (e.g., aptamers).
• Conduct in vitro binding assays, functional validation experiments, and contrast‑agent optimization.
• Assist with and perform small animal and large animal studies, including imaging procedures.
• Perform ultrasound imaging using both research-grade and clinical ultrasound equipment.
• Analyze imaging data, contribute to protocol refinement, and maintain accurate documentation.
• Prepare manuscripts, present research findings at conferences, and contribute to grant proposals.
• Mentor undergraduate trainees and support lab operations as needed.

Qualifications

Required

• BSc in biomedical engineering, molecular biology, biochemistry, imaging science, or a related field.
• Strong interest in molecular imaging, nucleic acid engineering, or contrast‑agent development.
• Experience with laboratory techniques such as PCR, cloning, gel electrophoresis, or protein/nucleic acid characterization.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.

Preferred

• Previous experience with ultrasound imaging, animal models, or contrast‑agent development.
• Experience designing or using aptamers, siRNA, DNA/RNA constructs, or related nucleic acid technologies.
• Prior involvement in scientific writing or conference presentations.

Funding & Support

Graduate students will receive a competitive stipend in accordance with University of Saskatchewan guidelines. Opportunities exist for conference travel, professional development, and collaboration with clinicians, imaging scientists, and molecular biologists.

How to Apply

Please send the following materials in a single PDF to steve.machtaler@usask.ca

• Cover letter outlining research interests and relevant experience.
• CV.
• Academic transcripts (unofficial accepted initially).
• Names and contact information of two referees.

Department: Medical Imaging
Employment Group: Graduate Students - PSAC
Rate of Pay: Current rates of pay
Posted Date: 1/26/2026
Closing Date: 3/8/2026
Number of Openings: 1
Work Location: On Campus

The University of Saskatchewan aspires to be what the world needs and embraces equity, diversity and inclusion as foundational to excellence and innovation. We actively seek to create a welcoming environment where all individuals feel empowered to thrive, contribute, and grow. Applications from equity‑deserving groups are encouraged as part of our ongoing efforts to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve. EDI Framework for Action

We continue to grow our partnerships with Indigenous communities across the province, nationally, and internationally and value the unique perspective that Indigenous employees provide to strengthen these relationships. Verification of Indigenous Membership/Citizenship at the University of Saskatchewan is led and determined by the deybwewin | taapwaywin | tapwewin: Indigenous Truth policy and the Standing Committee in accordance with the processes developed to enact the policy. Successful candidates that assert Indigenous membership/citizenship will be asked to complete the verification process of Indigenous membership/citizenship with documentation.