Postdoctoral Researcher

Union: Non-Union
Number of Vacancies: 2
Department: Multi-Organ Transplant Program Cardiology
Reports To: Dr. Alireza Rabi 
Location: Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network (UHN)
Work Model: On-site
Status: Temporary Full-Time
Hours: 37.5 hours per week
Closing Date: December 31, 2025

Position Summary:

The Rabi Lab is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Postdoctoral Researcher to support cutting-edge research in the field of heart transplantation. The successful candidate will contribute to preclinical investigations using rat and pig models to develop and evaluate ex vivo perfusion strategies for preserving and rehabilitating donor hearts obtained after circulatory death (DCD). This role requires proficiency in organ perfusion, biochemical and molecular techniques, and animal experimentation.

Key Duties & Responsibilities:

Experimental Design & Execution

• Perform and supervise ex vivo heart perfusion experiments in rodent and porcine models, including organ recovery, instrumentation, and perfusion using both custom and commercial systems.
• Conduct functional and physiological assessments, such as pressure-volume analysis, echocardiography, and perfusate biomarker evaluation.

Molecular & Cellular Work

• Perform biochemical assays (e.g., ATP quantification, ROS, enzyme activity).
• Conduct cell culture experiments with cardiomyocytes and endothelial cells derived from human and animal tissue.
• Execute molecular biology techniques, including RNA extraction, qPCR, Western blotting, and fluorescent labeling.

Animal Work

• Coordinate surgical procedures and ensure compliance with ACC/IACUC protocols.
• Support both survival and non-survival porcine heart transplant experiments.
• Monitor animal well-being and liaise with veterinary staff.

Data Management & Reporting

• Analyze data using statistical and image analysis tools (e.g., GraphPad Prism, MATLAB, ImageJ).
• Maintain accurate lab records and experimental logs.
• Contribute to manuscript preparation, presentations, and grant proposals.

Lab Operations & Supervision

• Train and mentor junior lab members and students.
• Maintain lab organization, inventory, and equipment functionality.
• Ensure compliance with UHN safety and biosafety protocols.

Working Conditions:

• Work will involve handling and surgical procedures on rodents and pigs, and may require occasional work outside standard hours.
• Research will be conducted in animal surgery suites, wet labs, and perfusion laboratories at Toronto General Hospital.
• All necessary safety, biosafety, and animal handling training will be provided.

• PhD in Physiology, Biomedical Engineering, Molecular Biology, Transplant Immunology, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience with rodent and/or large animal models.

• Some prior large or small animal surgical skills is encouraged.
• Hands-on experience with ex vivo perfusion systems (ideal, not absolutely necessary).
• Expertise in biochemical assays, molecular biology, and mammalian cell culture is required.
• Familiarity with therapeutic modalities such as siRNA delivery, metabolic interventions, or gene editing is an asset.
• Demonstrated ability of manuscript writing and significant and meaningful contribution to grant writing.
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills.
• Excellent communication and organizational abilities.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced research environment.
• Proficiency with data analysis software and Microsoft Office Suite.

Application Instructions

Interested candidates should submit:

• Cover letter outlining research experience and fit for the project.
• CV highlighting relevant experience and publications.
• Names and contact information of three references.

Join Dr. Rabi’s innovative team and advance fundamental discoveries in the advancing cardiac transplant research.

Why join UHN?

In addition to working alongside some of the most talented and inspiring healthcare professionals in the world, UHN offers a wide range of benefits, programs and perks. It is the comprehensiveness of these offerings that makes it a differentiating factor, allowing you to find value where it matters most to you, now and throughout your career at UHN.

• Competitive offer packages
• Government organization and a member of the Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan (HOOPP https://hoopp.com/)
• Close access to Transit and UHN shuttle service
• A flexible work environment
• Opportunities for development and promotions within a large organization
• Additional perks (multiple corporate discounts including: travel, restaurants, parking, phone plans, auto insurance discounts, on-site gyms, etc.)

Current UHN employees must have successfully completed their probationary period, have a good employee record along with satisfactory attendance in accordance with UHN's attendance management program, to be eligible for consideration.

All applications must be submitted before the posting close date.

UHN uses email to communicate with selected candidates.  Please ensure you check your email regularly.

Please be advised that a Criminal Record Check may be required of the successful candidate. Should it be determined that any information provided by a candidate be misleading, inaccurate or incorrect, UHN reserves the right to discontinue with the consideration of their application.

UHN is an equal opportunity employer committed to an inclusive recruitment process and workplace. Requests for accommodation can be made at any stage of the recruitment process. Applicants need to make their requirements known.

We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.