Author: Julie

CIHR Tier 2 CRC in Accessibility and/or Patient-Centered Care at Carleton University

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About the Position

Field of Specialization: CIHR Tier 2 CRC in Accessibility and/or Patient-Centered Care
Academic Unit: Faculty of Science
Category of Appointment: Preliminary (tenure-track) or tenured
Rank/Position Title: Assistant Professor or Associate Professor
Start Date: July 1, 2023
Closing Date: January 30, 2023

 

The Faculty of Science invites applications from qualified candidates for a Canadian Institute of Health Research (CIHR) Tier 2 Canada Research Chair (CRC) appointment beginning July 1, 2023.

The Faculty seeks an emerging scholar in one or more of the following research areas: accessibility studies; patient-centered care; and/or health care analytics. Applicants whose research occurs at the intersection of these areas will also be considered. Applicants will preferably possess lived experiences relating to this role.

Tier 2 Chairs are intended for exceptional emerging scholars (e.g., candidates must have been an active researcher in their field for fewer than 10 years at the time of nomination). Applicants who are more than 10 years from having earned their highest degree (and where career breaks exist, such as maternity, parental or extended sick leave, clinical training, etc.) may have their eligibility for a Tier 2 Chair assessed through the program’s Tier 2 justification process.

For more details, please see the Canada Research Chairs Secretariat and the Carleton Office for Research Initiatives and Services.

The successful candidate will work with the Faculty of Science to prepare the application for the Tier 2 CRC Chair. Academic appointment is conditional on the approval of the application by the CRC Program and will be made to an appropriate unit within the Faculty of Science.

To see the full position posting, please visit Carleton University’s Deputy Provost’s website at https://carleton.ca/deputyprovost/jobs/academics/.

About the Faculty of Science

The Faculty of Science is a research-intensive unit comprising 12 departments, schools, and institutes serving more than 5000 students. The Faculty includes world-leading researchers in many different areas and has strong and growing interactions with industry partners, government organizations, and other organizations located in Canada’s National Capital region. For more information, visit: https://science.carleton.ca.

Qualifications

  • PhD (or other degree as applicable) in a relevant discipline). Candidates close to degree completion will also be considered.
  • Demonstrated potential for outstanding teaching contributions.
  • Demonstrated potential for innovative and scholarly research and the ability to develop an externally- funded, high quality research program.
  • Excellent ability to contribute to the academic life of the appointed Unit.

Application Instructions

Applications must be sent electronically in one single PDF file, which includes the following:

  • a cover letter of application (can include a description of lived experience as it relates to this role, if applicable)
  • a curriculum vitae
  • a description of teaching interests and experience (maximum 2 pages)
  • a statement of research interests, including brief summary of past research activities and outline of planned activities (maximum 3 pages)
  • a statement that identifies your strengths in advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion in your discipline and on campus as well as your future plans.

Applicants should provide the names of three individuals to provide letters of recommendation.

Please indicate in your application if you are a legally eligible to work in Canada.

If you’re interested in this opportunity, please contact Katherine Frank (kfrank@kbrs.ca) or Lauren Wright (lwright@kbrs.ca), or submit your application online at https://www.kbrs.ca/Career/16573.

To help Carleton University develop its equity programs, a confidential equity and diversity self-identification survey will be sent to all applicants separately.

About Carleton University

Located in Ottawa, Carleton is an innovative teaching and research institution with a tradition of leading change. Internationally recognized academics, staff, and researchers engage more than 31,000 students in over 100 programs of study. Carleton has long been known for promoting research excellence and connectedness and is involved in partnerships around the globe. With strong leadership, it enjoys a healthy financial position and our proximity to government and cultural institutions, media, and a thriving knowledge economy make Carleton and Ottawa a great place to work, learn, and live. Our picturesque campus is fully accessible and, along with award-winning student services, Carleton’s Paul Menton Centre for Students with Disabilities has been heralded as the gold standard for disability support services in Canada. Learn more about our university and the city of Ottawa.

We are strongly committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion in the nomination and appointment process. Carleton University is committed to fostering diversity within its community as a source of excellence, cultural enrichment, and social strength. We welcome those who would contribute to the further diversification of our university including, but not limited to women, visible minorities, First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples, persons with disabilities, and persons of any sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression. Furthermore, Carleton understands that career paths vary and interruptions will not prejudice the assessment process. We invite you to review our revitalized Indigenous strategy, Kinàmàgawin and visit our Department of Equity and Inclusive Communities for information about our commitment to leadership in the areas of equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Accessibility is a university strategic priority and applicants selected for an interview who require accommodations are invited to contact the hiring Chair as soon as possible to ensure appropriate arrangements are made.

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority. All positions are subject to budgetary approval.

Assistant/Associate Professor, Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics – University of Manitoba

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U manitoba logoAssistant/Associate Professor, Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics
Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences
University of Manitoba
Position #32314

The Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics (DPT), Rady Faculty of Health Sciences (https://umanitoba.ca/health-sciences/) at the University of Manitoba (https://umanitoba.ca) invites applications for a full-time, Probationary (Tenure-track) or Tenured position at the rank of Assistant Professor or Associate Professor within the Max Rady College of Medicine, commencing on July 1, 2023, or on a date mutually agreed upon. Salary and rank will be commensurate with experience and qualifications

The Rady Faculty of Health Sciences is a major center of interdisciplinary health sciences education and research in Canada, offering a full range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in biomedical sciences and health professions. The DPT has a rich history of excellence in research and high-quality education in biomedical and clinical pharmacology at the graduate and undergraduate levels across all Rady Faculty of Health Sciences constituent Colleges of Medicine, Pharmacy, Rehabilitation Sciences, Dentistry and Nursing. The DPT also contributes heavily to undergraduate programming in the Faculty of Science (BSc) and the Interdisciplinary Health Program Bachelor of Health Sciences (BHSc) curriculum.

DPT faculty members maintain robust, internationally recognized research programs maintained by extramural operating and infrastructure grants from local, national and international sources. Foundational DPT research themes include cancer biology, clinical pharmacology, neurosciences, and cardiovascular and metabolic sciences. Research strengths are cultivated by leveraging partnerships between DPT and partner research institutes in Manitoba, including the Kleysen Institute for Advanced Medicine, St. Boniface Hospital Research, Children’s Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba and the CancerCare Manitoba Research Institute.

The successful candidate will have an MD and/or PhD, postdoctoral training experience with a highly productive track-record of impactful scholarly activity, inspire learning and a strong commitment to excellence in pharmacology and therapeutics education. Evidence of teaching experience is considered an asset. The appointed candidate will be expected to teach throughout the DPT program to support the educational advancement of undergraduate and graduate students in the core theoretical knowledge of drug action, including relevant methodological concepts. They will also have a prominent role in developing and executing the DPT strategic educational plan, which is likely to encompass activities such as development of new courses, market-driven micro-credentials, career development initiatives for trainees, and national training programs. The appointed candidate will also be expected to develop a rigorous well-funded research program. Applicants with research expertise across all pharmacology disciplines are encouraged to apply but preferred areas of research will align with departmental themes of strength and institute partner priorities in child health, cancer, clinical pharmacology, cardiovascular sciences and neurosciences.

At the Assistant Professor rank, candidates must display a promising research agenda and have demonstrated potential and a commitment to teaching. At the Associate Professor rank, candidates must have a strong research orientation, a demonstrated record of high-quality publications and successful experience in academic teaching.

A generous startup package will be available to establish a world-class research program. Additionally, the University of Manitoba has a long track-record of reserving institutional infrastructure funding opportunities (e.g. Canada Foundation for Innovation John R. Evans Leadership fund) for early career investigators.

The City of Winnipeg (www.tourismwinnipeg.com), located where the Red and Assiniboine Rivers meet, is recognized for its vibrant, multicultural community and diverse culture. The city, with a growing population of more than 766,000, is home to internationally renowned festivals, galleries and museums, the historic Exchange District and The Forks, and ever-expanding research, education, and business sectors. From the Hudson Bay waters, across the farmland fields, to the pulse of the cities and towns, The Province of Manitoba’s (www.travelmanitoba.com) people and places – its 100,000 lakes, 92 provincial parks, winding river valleys and storied prairie skies – inspire.

The University of Manitoba is a driving force of innovation, discovery and advancement. Our momentum is propelled by our campus community – UM faculty, staff and students whose determination and curiosity shape our world for the better. Our teaching, learning and work environment is uniquely strengthened and enriched by Indigenous perspectives. With two main campuses in Winnipeg, satellite campuses throughout Manitoba, and world-wide research, UM’s impact is global.

Discover outstanding employee benefits, experience world-class facilities and join a dynamic community that values reconciliation, sustainability, diversity, and inclusion. We are one of Manitoba’s Top Employers and one of Canada’s Best Diversity Employers. At the University of Manitoba, what inspires you can change everything.

Applicants are requested to submit the following materials, preferably via email as a single PDF file:

  1. Cover letter concisely describing suitability for the position
  2. Curriculum Vitae
  3. Statement of teaching philosophy documenting experience and approach to training and mentoring students from different types of educational backgrounds and using a variety of teaching strategies for diverse learners, including undergraduates and graduate students.
  4. A one page personal statement describing previous contributions to equity, diversity and inclusion and the incorporation into the teaching philosophy, research program and service activities.
  5. Five-year research plan (max 5 pages) outlining background, rationale, aims and experiments
  6. Names of three referees in confidence (contacted only if short-listed)

 

Submit all materials to:

 

Vernon Dolinsky

Professor and Associate Head, Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics

Chair of Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics Search Committee

Rady Faculty of Health Sciences

University of Manitoba

A205 Chown Building, 753 McDermot Avenue

Winnipeg, MB, Canada R3E OT6

Tel:      (204) 789-3405

Email: Karen.Donald@umanitoba.ca

 

Review of applications will commence starting December 1, 2022 and will continue until the position has been filled. Materials may be shared with participating members of the search process.  All materials, including reference letters, will be handled in accordance with the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (Manitoba).

The University of Manitoba is committed to the principles of equity, diversity & inclusion and to promoting opportunities in hiring, promotion and tenure (where applicable) for systemically marginalized groups who have been excluded from full participation at the University and the larger community including Indigenous Peoples, women, racialized persons, persons with disabilities and those who identify as 2SLGBTQIA+ (Two Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, questioning, intersex, asexual and other diverse sexual identities). All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority.

 An inclusive, open and diverse community is essential to excellence and fosters voices that have been ignored or discouraged. To address the Rady Faculty of Health Sciences commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion, and in recognition of the underrepresentation of members of historically and currently excluded groups, we take proactive measures including implicit bias training for all hiring panels. We strive for diversity and cultural safety throughout the hiring process (hiring panels, short-list of candidates, interviews). We encourage you to self-identify any aspect of diversity in your cover letter. 

 If you require accommodation supports during the recruitment process, please contact UM.Accommodation@umanitoba.ca or 204-474-7195. Please note this contact information is for accommodation reasons only.

Download a PDF version of this advertisement

 

Assistant Professor Position in Behavioural Neuroscience – McGill University

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The Department of Psychology at McGill University invites applications for a tenure-track position at the Assistant Professor level in Behavioural Neuroscience. We are particularly interested in applicants who use computational methodologies or in vivo recording techniques but will consider all applicants studying the neural mechanisms of behaviour. Applicants are expected to have a doctorate in psychology, neuroscience, or a closely related field at the time of appointment. Applicants should present evidence of research productivity and the potential to obtain external funding. All applicants are expected to have an aptitude for undergraduate and graduate teaching. The Department has excellent facilities for interdisciplinary research, including through its links with related academic departments and research units in the McGill University Health Centre and the Montreal Neurological Institute. This position will start in September 2023.

Applications must be submitted on-line on Work Day at this link:

https://mcgill.wd3.myworkdayjobs.com/McGill_Careers/job/McGill-College-2001/Assistant-Professor-BNS_JR0000033648

Use a personal email address when creating an account in Workday. Do not use @mail.mcgill.ca or @mcgill.ca email accounts to apply. Applications should include 1 pdf attachment containing a curriculum vitae, a description of research interests (4 pages max), a description of teaching interests, experience and philosophy (2 pages max), a statement of engagement with principles of equity, diversity and inclusivity (1 page max), and up to three selected reprints/preprints of publications.

Applications will begin to be examined on December 1, 2022 after 30 days of this publication date. and continue until suitable candidates have been identified,

McGill University is committed to equity and diversity within its community and values academic rigour and excellence. We welcome and encourage applications from racialized persons/visible minorities, women, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, ethnic minorities, and persons of minority sexual orientations and gender identities, as well as from all qualified candidates with the skills and knowledge to engage productively with diverse communities.
At McGill, research that reflects diverse intellectual traditions, methodologies, and modes of dissemination and translation is valued and encouraged. Candidates are invited to demonstrate their research impact both within and across academic disciplines and in other sectors, such as government, communities, or industry.
McGill further recognizes and fairly considers the impact of leaves (e.g., family care or health-related) that may contribute to career interruptions or slowdowns. Candidates are encouraged to signal any leave that affected productivity, or that may have had an effect on their career path. This information will be considered to ensure the equitable assessment of the candidate’s record.
McGill implements an employment equity program and encourages members of designated equity groups to self-identify. It further seeks to ensure the equitable treatment and full inclusion of persons with disabilities by striving for the implementation of universal design principles transversally, across all facets of the University community, and through accommodation policies and procedures. Persons with disabilities who anticipate needing accommodations for any part of the application process may contact, in confidence, accessibilityrequest.hr@mcgill.ca.
All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply; however, in accordance with Canadian immigration requirements, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority

Posting end date: 2022/12/31

PDF version of this advertisement

Postdoc in Neuroimmunology – Macauley lab, University of Alberta

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The Macauley lab is accepting applications for a Postdoctoral fellow in the area of neuroimmunology. Research in the lab focuses on the role of Siglec family of immunomodulatory glycan-binding receptors in human health and disease. The lab is located in the Gunning/Lemieux Chemistry center at University of Alberta and is part of the Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute (NHMI) and Alberta Glycomics Institute (GIA). Additionally, we are strongly connected to the Canadian Glycomics Network (GlycoNet), and collaborate closely with several other UAlberta investigators studying microglia (e.g. Drs. Plemel, Voronova, Sipione)

Working within a highly interdisciplinary environment, the fellow will lead projects related to the role of an Alzheimer’s disease susceptibility factor, CD33, in disease pathogenesis, as well as development of novel CD33-based therapeutics in this context (PMID:35940942). Genetic models (PMID:33766097 and PMID:31815204) and biochemical tools (PMID:34517042) are readily available in our laboratory for working on this exciting project that is closely connected to human disease. Funding through multiple sources (CIHR, Alzheimer Society of Canada, Weston Brain Institute, GlycoNet, and NIH) are in place to advance our goal of understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which Siglecs impact the function of microglia in the brain.

The position requires a Ph.D. in one of the following disciplines: neurobiology, immunology, chemical biology, biochemistry, or other related fields. Candidates should have a record of completed graduate research that can be directly applied to the field of interest described above. Prior experience with transgenic models of neurodegeneration, cell culture, microscopy (including immunohistochemical techniques) and biochemical techniques are highly desirable. The ideal candidate must demonstrate excellent laboratory skills, independence, and resourcefulness. Candidates must possess strong communication and organizational skills manifested with proven track records including peer-reviewed publications.

Please email a cover letter, CV, and the name of 3 potential references to Dr. Macauley.

Matthew Macauley
macauley@ualberta.ca

Posting end date: 2022/12/31

CAN holds its first in-person Hill Day in Ottawa November 3, 2022

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The Canadian Association for Neuroscience held its first in-person Parliament Hill Day on November 3, 2022 in Ottawa. It was an opportunity for our team of neuroadvocates to meet face to face or virtually with members of Parliament, Senators, Parliamentary staff members and important senior civil servants to advocate for a increased support for CIHR, NSERC and SSHRC, graduate scholarships and postdoctoral fellowships, and to make research on Brain and Mental Health a national priority. Continue reading →

Krembil Brain Institute Scientist Carmela Tartaglia is finding ways to diagnose Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy before its too late

Posted on | by Julie
Brain MRI for diagnosis

Doctor check up x-ray film of the brain by mri or ct scan brain at patient room hospital. medical concept.

Traumatic brain injuries are considered to be an invisible condition. We can’t often see the effects and 50% of patients experience personality change, irritability, anxiety, and depression after concussion. Repeat traumatic brain injuries may increase your risk for a condition called Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy.

Dr. Carmela Tartaglia’s research looks to identify diagnostic tools to predict if an individual could develop CTE after sustaining repeat head injuries. Dr. Tartaglia’s team is looking at implementing tools that target a protein called Tau, which is known to be elevated in CTE. In combination with other tests and screening methods, the hope is to be able to predict the progression of CTE, while implementing therapeutic strategies early on in the disease. Continue reading →

Imaging Specialist Position at University of Manitoba

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Position Title: Imaging Specialist

Employer: University of Manitoba, Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics

Salary: $60,000-70,000; salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Expected Start: December 1st, 2022 or earliest availability.

 

Job Description

The Live-Cell Imaging Facility (LCIF) is a Rady Faculty of Health Sciences (RFHS) supported core platform located within the Neuroscience Research Program on the 4th floor of the Kleysen Institute for Advanced Medicine. The LCIF includes state-of-the-art facilities for intravital multiphoton imaging from behaving small animals, in vitro multiphoton imaging, imaging with laser-capture/microdissection, confocal and super-resolution imaging. LCIF facilities are routinely accessed for day-to-day research activities of highly successful and established RFHS members probing the molecular, genetic and cellular basis of disease.

The LCIF seeks to hire a full-time Research Associate with a strong background in advanced optical microscopy who will oversee day-to-day operations of the LCIF and provide expert-level technical expertise and user support.

Responsibilities:

  • Facilitate facility access and promote increased adoption of advanced imaging and analysis techniques.
  • Offer in depth training, assistance with experimental design and advanced analysis procedures.
  • Consolidate and share collective expertise and best practices among our user base by organizing instructional seminars, tutorials and workshops.
  • Assist in the development of post-processing algorithms and software tools, including commercially available and in-house software.
  • Promote open access to imaging expertise and tools locally, nationally and internationally by networking with other facilities, curating content hosted on the LCIF website, and by further promoting discoveries and capabilities (e.g. via social media).
  • Ensure optimal operation and longevity of imaging facilities by troubleshooting system problems, undertaking routine maintenance and liaising with system manufacturers for scheduled maintenance or repairs.
  • Manage bookings, track and report system usage (number of users and hours logged), assist in billing based on usage and maintain training records (number of new users and hours of training provided).

Qualifications, skills and abilities:

  • Doctoral degree or equivalent qualifications and experience.
  • Experience with advanced optical microscopy (e.g. widefield, confocal or multiphoton imaging) including experimental design, sample preparation, image processing and analysis.
  • Experience in training and supervising trainees and staff.
  • Ability to troubleshoot and resolve technical problems with imaging equipment or software.
  • Ability and willingness to learn new techniques and skills, and to keep abreast of developments in the areas of expertise.
  • Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, and enthusiasm for sharing knowledge and expertise with others.
  • Demonstrated organizational skills and ability to prioritize tasks to meet objectives.
  • Ability to work both independently and as a member of a team is essential.

Interested Candidates should send their CV and cover letter, including a summary of their experience and qualifications for the position described, as well as the names and contact information for academic/research references, to Dr. Michael Jackson (michael.jackson@umanitoba.ca).

Additional information:

The University of Manitoba is committed to the principles of equity, diversity & inclusion and to promoting opportunities in hiring, promotion and tenure (where applicable) for systemically marginalized groups who have been excluded from full participation at the University and the larger community including Indigenous Peoples, women, racialized persons, persons with disabilities and those who identify as 2SLGBTQIA+ (Two Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, questioning, intersex, asexual and other diverse sexual identities). All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority.

If you require accommodation supports during the recruitment process, please contact UM.Accommodation@umanitoba.ca or 204-474-7195. Please note this contact information is for accommodation reasons only.

An inclusive, open and diverse community is essential to excellence and fosters voices that have been ignored or discouraged. To address the Rady Faculty of Health Sciences commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion, and in recognition of the underrepresentation of members of historically and currently excluded groups, we take proactive measures including implicit bias training for all hiring panels. We strive for diversity and cultural safety throughout the hiring process (hiring panels, short-list of candidates, interviews). We encourage you to self-identify any aspect of diversity in your cover letter.

Application materials, including letters of reference, will be handled in accordance with the protection of privacy provision of The Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (Manitoba). Please note that curriculum vitae may be provided to participating members of the search process.

Contact information

Dr. Michael Jackson

LCIF Director

Associate Professor, Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics

University of Manitoba

michael.jackson@umanitoba.ca

Read CAN’s submission to the FINA pre-budget consultations

Posted on | by Julie
Parliament - Centre block

The CAN advocacy team is happy to share our submission to pre-budget consultations in advance of the 2023 budget of the House of Commons permanent committee on Finances (FINA)
View our submission: Increased investment in scientific research for the health and prosperity of Canadians today and tomorrow
The deadline to submit a brief is Saturday, 8 October 2022 at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Standard Time – View the news release here

Saving more stroke patients

Posted on | by Julie
Man with heavy headache or brain stroke - conceptual artwork - 3d illustration - Gray scale Image

Man with heavy headache or brain stroke – conceptual artwork – 3d illustration – Gray scale Image

Approximately 20,000 Quebecers suffer a cerebrovascular accident every year. Nearly 90% are caused by a blood clot that blocks the brain’s blood vessels and, by the same token, its supply of oxygen and nutrients. Deprived of oxygen, some 1.9 million nerve cells die every minute following a stroke.

While no treatment can restore brain function, there is a therapeutic approach that helps limit the damage. It involves injecting a thrombolytic agent that dissolves the clot and restores blood flow. It must be administered within 4.5 hours of the stroke, after which the risk of bleeding increases. But according to the Ministère de la Santé et des Services sociaux du Québec, 66% of stroke victims don’t arrive at the hospital in time to benefit from the medication. The result: close to 3,000 deaths annually and 130,000 people living with physical and psychological effects. Continue reading →

Doctoral students with an Interest in Healthy Brain, Aging and Dementia Prevention

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University of Calgary logoOpportunities: The Brain in Motion research program is looking for doctoral students with an interest in healthy brain aging and dementia prevention who wish to join a large interdisciplinary and diverse research team of over 35 scientists from Calgary, Canada and other parts of the World. There are opportunities currently available for doctoral students in neurosciences, physiological sciences, psychology and kinesiology in several areas related to this research program. Four-year doctoral stipend support is available via matching funding models, through application in March 2023, at the University of Calgary. Below you will find the thematic areas, the Brain in Motion protocol, the timeline for this opportunity, and contact information for more details.

Thematic areas within the program of research

  • Cognitive function (executive function, complex attention, processing speed, verbal memory, overall cognition), exercise and aging
  • Biomarkers (vascular, neuroendocrine, inflammation)
  • Proteomics, lipidomics, metabolomics
  • Genetics (genetic variants related to ADRD, neuronal integrity, growth factors and clearance enzymes, lipid and vascular function modulators)
  • Neuroimaging
  • Sleep and novel biomarkers of cognitive decline
  • Maintenance of health behavior
  • Role of lifestyle factors on cognitive function
  • Machine learning and artificial intelligence
  • Healthcare system costs and quality of life measures
  • Exercise physiology
  • Sex and gender differences

Summary of Brain in Motion

Background: There remains no effective intervention capable of reversing most cases of dementia. Current research is focused on prevention by addressing risk factors that are shared between cardiovascular disease and dementia (e.g., hypertension) before the cognitive, functional, and behavioural symptoms of dementia manifest. A promising preventive treatment is exercise. This study describes the methods of a randomized controlled trial (RCT) that assesses the effects of aerobic exercise and behavioural support interventions in older adults at increased risk of dementia due to genetic and/or cardiovascular risk factors. The specific aims are to determine the effect of aerobic exercise on cognitive performance, explore the biological mechanisms that influence cognitive performance after exercise training, and determine if changes in cerebrovascular physiology and function persist one year after a 6-month aerobic exercise intervention followed by a 1-year behavioural support program (at 18 months).

Methods: We will recruit 264 participants (aged 50-80 years) at elevated risk of dementia. Participants will be randomly allocated into one of four treatment arms: (1) aerobic exercise and health behaviour support, (2) aerobic exercise and no health behaviour support, (3) stretching-toning and health behaviour support, and (4) stretching-toning and no health behaviour support. The aerobic exercise intervention will consist of three supervised walking/jogging sessions per week for 6 months, whereas the stretching-toning control intervention will consist of three supervised stretching-toning sessions per week also for 6 months. Following the exercise interventions, participants will receive either one year of ongoing telephone behavioural support or no telephone support. The primary aim is to determine the independent effect of aerobic exercise on a cognitive composite score in participants allocated to this intervention compared to participants allocated to the stretching-toning group. Secondary aims are to examine the effects of aerobic exercise on a number of secondary outcomes and determine whether aerobic exercise-related changes persist after a one-year behavioural support program (at 18 months).

Significance: This study will address knowledge gaps regarding the underlying mechanisms of the pro-cognitive effects of exercise by examining potential mediating factors, including cerebrovascular/physiological, neuroimaging, sleep, and genetic factors that will provide novel biologic evidence on how aerobic exercise can prevent declines in cognition with aging. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03035851); protocol paper published (Kruger et al., 2021).

Timeline for these opportunities:

By December 15, 2022– Deadline for prospective students to submit i) a letter of interest, ii) a curriculum vitae, iii) a list of publications and awards, and iv) the names of 3 referees who have agreed to be contacted to bimstudy@ucalgary.ca. Prospective supervisors, co-supervisors and doctoral students will complete the application process for matching funds with support from the Brain in Motion team. The start date for the doctoral program will be between May – September 2023.

Contact information

For more details please contact:

Dr. Marc Poulin, Lead Investigator for the Brain in Motion team
Department of Physiology & Pharmacology
Cumming School of Medicine
University of Calgary
Calgary, Alberta

Email: poulin@ucalgary.ca
Email: bimstudy@ucalgary.ca