The Canadian Genetic Diseases Network is a national hub for genetic research excellence, bringing together leading scientists, clinicians, trainees and technical specialists across Canada's premier universities, teaching hospitals and core facilities. If you are passionate about advancing our understanding of genetic disease and translating discoveries into clinical benefit, we invite you to explore the diverse career pathways available throughout our network.
CGDN membership offers far more than a single institutional affiliation. Our investigators and trainees gain access to a collaborative ecosystem of world-class researchers, state-of-the-art core facilities, and cutting-edge bioinformatics infrastructure spanning the country. Since our founding in 1998, CGDN scientists have published 772 peer-reviewed papers and filed 104 patent applications—a testament to the productivity and impact of our network model.
By joining CGDN, you become part of a national research community committed to understanding the genetic basis of disease. You will work alongside established investigators, access specialized equipment and databases that would be unavailable at a single institution, and contribute to discoveries that directly improve patient outcomes. Our network structure accelerates collaboration, reduces research silos, and creates mentorship opportunities that span disciplines and geographies.
CGDN member institutions regularly recruit postdoctoral fellows and research scientists to join active genetics research programs. These positions span molecular genetics, functional genomics, genetic epidemiology, and translational research. Postdoctoral fellows typically hold a PhD or equivalent qualification in genetics, molecular biology, biomedical science, or a related discipline, and are expected to contribute original research while developing independence as future investigators.
Postdoctoral researchers within CGDN benefit from mentorship by established investigators, access to multi-institutional resources, and the opportunity to present findings at network symposia and national conferences. Many of our postdoctoral fellows transition to independent research positions, both within and beyond the network. Salary and benefits are competitive and commensurate with experience and qualifications.
CGDN member universities offer graduate programs (MSc and PhD) in genetics, genomics, and related biomedical disciplines. Graduate students joining CGDN-affiliated research groups gain exposure to a breadth of expertise and resources unmatched by single-institution programs. Our network facilitates cross-institutional collaboration, enabling students to work on projects that leverage expertise and infrastructure across multiple sites.
Graduate trainees participate in CGDN seminars, workshops, and annual network meetings, providing regular exposure to cutting-edge research across the full spectrum of genetic disease. Students also benefit from structured bioinformatics training and professional development opportunities, preparing them for careers in academic research, clinical genetics, industry, or public health. Funding support for graduate students is available through a combination of institutional scholarships, CGDN-supported awards, and supervisor research grants.
CGDN's network of specialized core facilities—including genomics laboratories, sequencing centers, and bioinformatics platforms—employs skilled technical and professional staff. These positions range from laboratory technicians and bioinformaticians to facility managers and data analysts. Core facility roles are essential to the network's research mission, providing high-quality services and technical expertise to investigators across member institutions.
Bioinformatics specialists within CGDN work at the intersection of genetics, computer science, and statistics. Opportunities include:
These positions typically require a bachelor's or master's degree in bioinformatics, computer science, statistics, genetics, or a related field, along with demonstrable technical competency. Candidates with experience in genomic data analysis, programming languages such as R or Python, and Linux/Unix environments are particularly competitive. Core facility positions offer stability, professional development, and the satisfaction of enabling high-impact research across the network.
CGDN member institutions also recruit genetic counselors, clinical geneticists, and laboratory geneticists to support both research and clinical programs. These roles bridge the gap between laboratory discovery and patient care, ensuring that genetic research findings are translated into diagnostic and therapeutic advances. Genetic counselors work directly with patients and families, providing education and support regarding genetic testing and disease risk, while also contributing to research recruitment and phenotyping efforts.
Clinical positions within CGDN offer the unique opportunity to engage in both patient-facing work and research collaboration. Many clinicians maintain active research programs, investigating the genetic basis of the diseases they treat. This integration of clinical practice and research is a hallmark of CGDN member institutions.
Current career openings across CGDN member universities, hospitals, and core facilities are posted regularly on institutional career portals and research network websites. We recommend reviewing position announcements at individual member institutions, as CGDN does not maintain a centralized job board. Prospective candidates are encouraged to contact CGDN investigators whose research aligns with their interests and qualifications.
Whether you are an early-career researcher, an experienced bioinformatician, a clinical professional, or a technical specialist, CGDN offers a dynamic environment in which to advance your career while contributing to discoveries that improve the health of Canadians and people worldwide. We welcome applications from talented individuals committed to excellence in genetic research and translation.