Program Head - Developmental, Stem Cell & Cancer Biology (DSCB) Research Program

The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) is seeking an exceptional, visionary scientific leader to serve as the Program Head of the Developmental, Stem Cell & Cancer Biology (DSCB) Research Program . This role will provide strategic and scientific leadership for a dynamic, multidisciplinary program dedicated to advancing child health through groundbreaking research in developmental biology, stem cell science, and cancer biology. The DSCB Program pushes the boundaries of fundamental discovery, from uncovering molecular mechanisms of human development to innovating new disease models, and translates these insights into precision therapies for pediatric cancers, congenital disorders, neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative conditions, and rare childhood diseases. The successful candidate will champion innovative, collaborative research that accelerates the impact of scientific discoveries on child health. In this role, the Program Head will also advance SickKids’ Precision Child Health initiative, integrating developmental and genomic insights to enable more predictive, individualized pediatric care and improved patient outcomes.

This is a five-year term leadership appointment, renewable following a successful program review, with the successful candidate appointed as a Senior Scientist in the Research Institute (and eligible to maintain this appointment beyond the leadership term).

Key Responsibilities

Strategic & Scientific Leadership

Define and execute a compelling vision for the DSCB program that keeps SickKids at the forefront of developmental, stem cell and cancer research globally Align the program’s scientific direction with institutional priorities, including Precision Child Health, to maximize impact on child health

Program Development & Integration

Build and lead a cohesive program that bridges fundamental discovery and translational science, fostering synergy among basic scientists, clinician–investigators, and collaborators Identify and capitalize on emerging research opportunities and technologies (e.g. organoids, genetics, advanced models) to drive breakthroughs in pediatric disease modeling and regenerative medicine

Discovery to Impact

• Accelerate the translation of discoveries into therapeutic innovations, guiding the development of new treatments and interventions Encourage interdisciplinary approaches that connect laboratory findings to novel clinical strategies for childhood diseases, and partner with clinical departments to embed research insights into care practices

Collaboration & Partnerships

Forge strong collaborations across SickKids’ research programs and hospital centres, as well as with University of Toronto and other leading institutions Promote interdisciplinary and cross-program initiatives (e.g. joint projects with other Program Heads) to leverage collective strengths and maximize resources and shared platforms Foster strategic partnerships with industry, funding agencies, and international research networks to enhance the program’s reach and resources

People Leadership & Mentorship

Recruit, mentor, and inspire a diverse community of scientists, clinician-scientists, and trainees Champion a culture of inclusivity, collaboration, and excellence, supporting the career development of investigators and trainees Serve as a role model in scientific leadership, nurturing the next generation of research leaders in developmental, stem cell, and cancer biology

Operational Excellence & Sustainability

Oversee the program’s research portfolio and infrastructure, working with administrative leaders to ensure sustainable growth Secure and diversify funding streams through competitive grants, philanthropy, and partnerships, bolstering the program’s long-term impact and international reputation Represent the DSCB program in institutional strategic planning, helping shape research priorities, allocate resources effectively, and advocate for the program’s needs

Required Qualifications

PhD, MD, or MD/PhD (or equivalent) in a relevant field. Internationally recognized scientific excellence in an area relevant to developmental biology, stem cell research, and/or pediatric disease (e.g. cancer biology), with a strong record of high-impact research achievements Progressive leadership experience guiding multidisciplinary research teams or programs, demonstrating the ability to set a vision, execute strategy, and mentor talent Proven track record of sustained peer-reviewed funding and influential publications in top-tier journals Eligible for appointment at the Associate or Full Professor level (Status-Only) at the University of Toronto (For physician candidates: eligible for medical licensure in Ontario)

Preferred Qualifications

Experience bridging fundamental discoveries to therapeutic or clinical applications, such as involvement in translational research initiatives or early-phase clinical studies in pediatric contexts Demonstrated success in forging cross-institutional or industry collaborations that amplify research impact Expertise with advanced model systems or cutting-edge technologies (e.g. organoids, single-cell genomics, gene editing) that drive innovation in developmental or cancer research A strong commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in science and leadership, with evidence of fostering diverse and inclusive research teams

Why Join SickKids

Lead a flagship program at one of the world’s foremost pediatric research institutes, shaping the future of child health science on a global stage Access to world-class research infrastructure and core facilities, including state-of-the-art laboratories and technology platforms dedicated to developmental and stem cell research Collaborative, mission-driven culture: Work alongside top clinicians, scientists, and partners in a highly collaborative academic and healthcare network, supported by SickKids’ strong affiliations with the University of Toronto and nine teaching hospitals Institutional support for innovation and excellence: Join a community deeply committed to discovery and translational impact, with robust leadership support and opportunities to advance Precision Child Health across programs. Competitive compensation and benefits package, and an environment that values professional growth, wellness, and the pursuit of SickKids’ vision: Healthier Children. A Better World.

Our Commitment to Diversity

SickKids is strongly committed to diversity within its community and especially welcomes applications from racialized persons, persons of colour, women, Indigenous/Aboriginal Peoples of North America, persons with disability, 2SLGBTQIA+persons, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas. If requested, SickKids is proud to make available accommodations to support applicants with disabilities during the interview and assessment process. Informed by the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), the Ontario Human Rights Code, and our Access and Accommodation Policy, we will accommodate the needs of applicants. Please email Ann Prosser at Voir email sur nature.com of your accessibility needs during the recruitment process. Information received relating to accommodation will be addressed confidentially. The Hospital for Sick Children also recognizes that scholars have varying career paths. Candidates are encouraged to explain any personal circumstances to allow for a fair assessment of their application. 

Application Process
Interested applicants should submit the following documents electronically to Dr. Stephen Scherer, Chief of Research at Voir email sur nature.com by the close of search on December 21, 2026:

• Cover Letter outlining your leadership vision and how your experience aligns with the DSCB program’s mission and SickKids’ values
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) detailing your education, appointments, publications, funding, and leadership experience
• Research Statement (2–3 pages) summarizing your current research program and your plans to drive innovation and impact in developmental, stem cell & cancer biology
• Names and Contact Information of 3 References (letters will be requested at a later stage)

SickKids believes that diversity positively impacts science and is essential to sustain our vibrant world-leading research community. As part of the application process, you will be asked to complete a brief voluntary diversity survey. Any information directly related to you is confidential and cannot be accessed by either the search committee or human resources staff. Results will be aggregated for institutional planning purposes. The self-identification information is collected, used, disclosed, retained and disposed of in accordance with the Privacy Act and the Access to Information Act .

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, in accordance with Canadian immigration requirements, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.

Applicants may direct informal inquiries to: Voir email sur nature.com .