Research Unit Director – IRCM Cancer Research Center

Location: Quebec

Job reference code: IRCM-Cancer

The Montreal Clinical Research Institute (Institut de recherches cliniques de Montréal, IRCM) invites applications for an independent researcher position at all career stages to join its Cancer Research Center. We are looking for a scientist whose work focuses on cancer progression, with a particular interest in areas such as:

• The cellular and molecular mechanisms of metastatic progression and tumor dormancy.
• The study of solid cancers, such as pancreatic, breast, brain, lung, and other relevant models.
• The use of cutting‑edge technologies in genomics, proteomics, or other emerging approaches.

Join the IRCM, an internationally renowned institute in Montreal, and contribute to advancing cancer research. Required profile

• Hold a PhD and/or MD with high‑calibre postdoctoral training
• Have an excellent record of scientific publications
• Demonstrate potential for scientific leadership and interdisciplinary collaboration
• Demonstrate commitment to the values of collegiality and of equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in their research, teaching, and mentoring activities

The research environment

• State‑of‑the‑art core facilities, including Level 2 and 3 containment laboratories equipped with animal facilities.
• Privileged access to hospital collaborations in Quebec and abroad.
• A highly collaborative and multidisciplinary research community.

The position offers competitive start‑up funds, equipment, laboratory space, and attractive salary conditions.

The successful candidate will be expected to establish an independent research program funded by external sources, participate in teaching and supervising graduate students, and contribute to institutional activities.

The successful candidate will hold the title of IRCM Research Professor and will be expected to obtain a research professor appointment at the Université de Montréal (assistant, associate, or full professor, depending on experience), with a joint affiliation at McGill University.

Commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion

Valuing equity, diversity, and excellence, the IRCM is committed to providing an inclusive and respectful work environment. We encourage qualified individuals of all backgrounds, sexual orientations, gender identities or expressions, and individuals with disabilities to apply.

Relocation and integration support

The IRCM welcomes applications from around the world and offers relocation support for international researchers, including assistance with immigration procedures, settling in Montreal, and integrating into the local scientific community. Montreal is a cosmopolitan, bilingual city renowned for its quality of life, cultural vitality, and academic excellence.

Application requirements

Interested individuals are invited to submit the following documents, merged as a single PDF file labelled as follows: IRCM-  name

• A cover letter (1 page) and a complete CV, including a list of publications.
• A research statement (3 pages) presenting the projects envisioned for the research program.
• A statement on mentoring strategies and general supervision principles (1 page).

Submission process

Final date to receive applications:
November 28, 2025

Submit your application to Dr. Michel Cayouette, VP-Research and Academic Affairs, at  Please title your email as follows: IRCM-Cancer - LAST NAME, First name.

If an applicant is selected for the next stage of the process, they will be asked to provide at least three letters of reference. These letters are not required for the initial application submission.

We thank all applicants for their interest; only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Applications will be examined until we find the right person for the position.

About the IRCM

Founded in 1967, the Montreal Clinical Research Institute (IRCM) is a world‑class biomedical center recognized for its scientific excellence and its central role in the research ecosystem in Quebec and Canada. Located in the heart of downtown Montreal, the IRCM brings together more than 425 scientists, clinicians, students, and research staff working in a highly multidisciplinary environment.

The Institute is distinguished by its translational research programs that accelerate the transition from fundamental discoveries to clinical innovations, its close collaborations with university hospitals (CHUM, MUHC, Ste‑Justine, Maisonneuve‑Rosemont) and its strategic partnerships with the Université de Montréal, McGill University and other higher education institutions. Its structuring initiatives include the Sidney‑Altman Therapeutic RNA Hub, a therapeutic monoclonal antibody production platform, and a long COVID research clinic.

Finally, the IRCM is dedicated to training the next generation of scientists and clinicians through high-level teaching programs.

A place of scientific excellence, creativity and impact on human health, the IRCM fosters a spirit of collegiality, openness and collaboration.

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