Assistant | Associate Professor, Centre of Oncological Research in Surgery (COORS)

Entity: The Aga Khan University Medical College

Location: Karachi, Pakistan

Introduction:

The Aga Khan University Medical College (MC) was established in 1983, as a part of the Aga Khan University’s Faculty of Health Sciences in Karachi, Pakistan. It works closely with the School of Nursing and Midwifery and the University Hospital to produce excellence in educational programs and medical practice.

Centre of Oncological Research in Surgery (COORS) intends to build a culture of innovation and collaboration that will drive research breakthroughs and be capable of changing approaches to cancer prevention, screening, and treatment; in the process, it will improve the lives of cancer survivors. The main core focus area s of COORS is advancing basic science research in cancer; organizing and conducting epidemiological and population-based research and initiating clinical trials in surgical oncology and related area.

As an equal opportunity employer, AKU believes in promoting a diverse and inclusive culture and is committed to adopting appropriate standards for safeguarding and promoting a respectful relationship with and between the diverse workforce of its faculty, staff, trainees, volunteers, beneficiaries, wider communities, and other stakeholders with whom it works, including children and vulnerable adults and expects all employees/trainees and partners to share this commitment.

COORS is inviting applications for the position of Assistant/Associate Professor, Centre of Oncological Research in Surgery (COORS).

Responsibilities:

Reporting to the Director, COORS, the successful candidate will be expected to develop a vigorous program on regenerative medicine, submit and secure grants both nationally and internationally, and work independently on different projects related to regenerative medicine. The candidate will also work closely with a team of dedicated scientists and research staff on projects related to, but not limited to, regenerative medicine.

Moreover, candidate will be responsible for:

• delivering high-quality scientific insight at COORS
• catalyzing early-stage innovations, bridging the gap between fundamental research and practical application for patient impact
• translating discoveries into clinical and/or commercial applications, where applicable
• ensuring effective project decision-making and the delivery of project milestones
• establishing and maintaining links with relevant researchers and other academic institutions
• writing proposals and building collaborative multidisciplinary relationships to move forward with research ideas and secure intramural and extramural funding
• providing evidence of the candidate’s commitment to multi-disciplinary collaborative research and excellence in teaching and mentoring at the undergraduate and graduate levels
• serving as a member/leader of department/hospital/university committees related to research
• undertaking other responsibilities as assigned by the Director.

Requirements:

You must have:

• PhD or equivalent degree and postdoctoral experience demonstrating outstanding achievement in a relevant biomedical subject area. This includes stem cell biology, 3D model organ development, tissue regeneration, stem cell differentiation, biomaterials, and gene therapy/genome editing using CRISPR/Cas9 technology. Experience in clinical translational research with stem cell therapeutics and oncological medicine would be an asset
• at least three years’ experience of teaching/research in a HEC-recognized University with a minimum of two years’ post-terminal teaching experience for the Assistant Professor level
• at least five years’ experience of teaching/research at the Assistant Professor rank, with a minimum of two years’ post-terminal teaching experience for the Associate Professor level
• a track record of excellence in the relevant research area (via publications, presentations, grants, patents, etc.)
• familiarity with emerging technologies such as 3D bioprinting, gene editing (e.g., CRISPR), and organoid models
• experience working in a clinical research or translational medicine environment
• entrepreneurial experience (e.g., patents, spin-offs, or industry collaboration)
• active involvement in interdisciplinary research consortia
• established, independent, and vigorous intramural and extramurally funded research program in an area relevant to Regenerative Medicine
• an interest in working in a multidisciplinary environment and addressing important questions in stem cell and/or regenerative medicine
• clarity on research plan and start-up funding needs
• ability to work independently and proactively; professional conduct that fosters a high-performance collaborative team culture
• excellent communication, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills
• excellent consensus-building and conflict resolution skills, exhibiting the ability to advocate with stakeholders at all levels
• strong analytical and project management capabilities
• curiosity to acquire new scientific learning and openness to coaching / mentoring
• ability to engender enthusiasm and motivate others with their vision and potential contributions.

Comprehensive employment reference checks will be conducted.

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.