PDF position in computational drug discovery in the Gentile Lab at U of Ottawa

We are seeking a talented and motivated researcher to lead an exciting project in computational anticancer drug discovery. The Gentile Lab the University of Ottawa specializes in developing and applying computational methods for biochemistry and drug discovery. As a key member of our multidisciplinary research team, you will work at the intersection of computational chemistry and artificial intelligence to design next-generation DNA repair inhibitors for combination cancer therapy. This project is part of an ongoing international collaboration with the Cancer Research Centre of Lyon (France) and has a strong emphasis on bench-to-bedside translation, aiming to bring computational discoveries closer to clinical applications. As a postdoctoral fellow, you will:

  • Develop innovative drug discovery technologies at the intersection of computational chemistry and artificial intelligence
  • Screen vast chemical spaces to identify potential DNA repair enzyme inhibitors and propose candidates for wet-lab validation
  • Optimize hit compounds through hit-to-lead strategies to advance preclinical development
  • Disseminate your research by publishing in high-impact journals and presenting at conferences
    • Mentor junior lab members and contribute to a collaborative research environment

Qualifications

  • PhD in Computational Chemistry, Computational Biology, Biophysics or related fields
  • Expertise in:
  • computational structure-based drug discovery, especially with docking and molecular dynamics

AND/OR

  • Machine learning for chemistry, especially with generative modeling
  • A proven track-record of high-impact publications
  • Excellent coding skills

Application process

Candidates are encouraged to send a short motivation letter, complete CV with publications, and the names and emails of three references via email to fgentile AT uottawa.ca. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. The position will remain open until filled. The salary will be commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Why joining us?

Our lab is part of the Department of Chemistry and Biomolecular Sciences at the University of Ottawa, one of Canada’s top institutions, and the Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology. We have ongoing collaborations with Health Canada, the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute and local biotech companies, providing excellent opportunities to engage with leading researchers and expand your professional network. Ottawa itself is a dynamic city with a vibrant cultural scene and stunning natural beauty, offering year-round outdoor activities—from skating on the world's longest rink to hiking in Gatineau Park. Few other benefits:

  • Competitive salary and benefits
  • Access to a cutting-edge HPC cluster for machine and deep learning applications
  • Possibility to travel to France as part of the collaboration with the Cancer Research Centre of Lyon
  • Financial support to attend national and international conferences
  • Financial support for relocation expenses

Best regards,

Francesco Gentile, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor, Department of Chemistry and Biomolecular Sciences
Principal Investigator, Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology
University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
Website: gentilelab.uottawa.ca

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