Postdoctoral Fellow in Embryo Development and Embryo Modelling

Postdoctoral Fellow in Embryo Development and Embryo Modelling
Placement at Reprobiogen Inc. in Toronto, ON, affiliated with Wilfrid Laurier University and the University of Toronto.Reprobiogen, a state-of-the-art genomics laboratory situated in Canada’s leading fertility centre, invites applications for a Postdoctoral Fellow in Embryo Development and Embryo Modelling to join a translational research program focused on human embryo development, embryo arrest, and maternal-fetal communication during the peri-implantation period.This is an opportunity for an outstanding early-career scientist to work at the intersection of reproductive biology, embryology, stem cell-derived embryo model systems, single-cell and spatial genomics, and translational fertility research. The successful candidate will contribute to an ambitious program aimed at defining the biological mechanisms underlying embryo developmental failure and implantation failure, with direct relevance to human fertility and assisted reproduction.The postdoctoral fellow will work primarily under the supervision of Dr. Stewart Russell, in collaboration with Dr. Svetlana Madjunkova and Dr. Clifford Librach, within a highly interdisciplinary environment that integrates clinicians, embryologists, translational scientists, and advanced molecular profiling approaches. Position focusThe primary role of the successful candidate will be to develop and apply experimental models of:

• human embryo development across the peri-implantation window
• mechanisms of embryo arrest and developmental failure
• embryo-endometrial signalling and maternal-fetal communication
• interactions between human embryos, stem cell-derived embryo models, and implantation-relevant environments

The fellow will work with human embryos, stem cell-derived embryo models, and associated experimental platforms, with opportunities to generate and interpret single-cell RNA-seq, spatial transcriptomic, imaging, and functional signalling data. Key responsibilitiesThe successful candidate will:

• lead and support translational wet-lab studies on embryo development and peri-implantation biology
• contribute to human embryo handling, microdissection, and embryo-associated experimental workflows
• establish and optimize stem cell-derived embryo model systems and related assays where appropriate
• support generation of single-cell RNA-seq and spatial transcriptomic datasets from embryo and embryo-model systems
• perform and interpret complementary assays including immunofluorescence, advanced microscopy, and image-based phenotyping
• contribute to mechanistic studies of signalling and developmental trajectories during the peri-implantation period
• assist with manuscript preparation, abstract development, and grant writing
• collaborate closely with clinical, embryology, and research teams across the CReATe Fertility Clinic and University of Toronto-affiliated environments

Required qualificationsApplicants must have:

• a PhD or MD/PhD in reproductive biology, developmental biology, stem cell biology, cell biology, molecular biology, or a closely related field
• strong evidence of research productivity, including peer-reviewed publications
• demonstrated experience in embryo biology, stem cell-based developmental models, micromanipulation, microdissection, or closely related advanced experimental systems
• strong experimental skills and the ability to work independently in a complex translational research environment
• excellent written and verbal communication skills

Applicants having secured external funding will be given special consideration Preferred qualificationsParticular consideration will be given to candidates with experience in one or more of the following areas, roughly in order of priority:

• microdissection, embryo handling, or closely related reproductive laboratory techniques
• stem cell-derived embryo models or related developmental model systems
• single-cell RNA-seq workflows
• spatial transcriptomics
• immunofluorescence
• advanced microscopy
• image analysis
• flow cytometry
• bioinformatics or analysis of transcriptomic datasets

Dry-lab experience is not required, but it is a strong asset. Research environmentThis position offers a rare opportunity to work within a clinic-integrated translational fertility research environment with access to clinically relevant questions, advanced embryology expertise, human embryo and model-system platforms, and close collaboration across reproductive medicine and molecular science. The successful candidate will join a research setting designed to support high-impact publications, interdisciplinary collaboration, and career development at the forefront of reproductive and developmental biology. Appointment details

• Term: Two-year contract, with possibility of extension subject to funding and performance
• Location: Reprobiogen Inc.,Toronto, Ontario, Canada
• Start date: Fall 2026
• Salary: Competitive and commensurate with experience
• Eligibility: International applicants are strongly encouraged to apply. This position may align well with the Mitacs Accelerate Global Excellence Award for eligible postdoctoral fellows relocating to Canada.

Application materialsApplicants should submit:

• a cover letter describing research interests, relevant experience, and fit for the position
• curriculum vitae
• a brief statement of past research accomplishments and future interests
• contact information for three references

Applications should be addressed to:
Dr. Stewart RussellSubmission Link: https://wlu.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1zGa7RqYViMGfDUApplications will be reviewed beginning April 10th, 2026 and will continue until the position is filled.Wilfrid Laurier University, the University of Toronto and Reprobiogen Inc. are committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion and welcome applications from all qualified candidates.Pay: $55,000.00-$80,000.00 per yearBenefits:

• Dental care
• Extended health care
• Paid time off

Work Location: In person