Author: Julie

Nanotubes in the eye that help us see

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Luis Alarcon-Martinez, Adriana Di Polo, Deborah Villafranca-Baughman - Photo credit: CHUM
Luis Alarcon-Martinez, Adriana Di Polo, Deborah Villafranca-Baughman – Photo credit: CHUM

Researchers at the CRCHUM find a new structure by which cells in the retina communicate with each other, regulating blood supply to keep vision intact

Montreal, August 12, 2020 — A new mechanism of blood redistribution that is essential for the proper functioning of the adult retina has just been discovered in vivo by researchers at the University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM).

Their study was published in Nature.

“For the first time, we have identified a communication structure between cells that is required to coordinate blood supply in the living retina,” said Dr. Adriana Di Polo, a neuroscience professor at Université de Montréal and holder of a Canada Research Chair in glaucoma and age-related neurodegeneration, who supervised the study. Continue reading →

Post-doc position – Neurodegenerative Disease Research – Clark lab at the University at Buffalo

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The Clark Lab at the State University of New York at Buffalo is looking to build a team to investigate a second-generation preclinical model of Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP). PSP is a devastating neurodegenerative disease, which shares attributes with Alzheimer’s Disease; tau protein aggregates, cognitive and motor deficits. Our goal is to identify neurons that are perturbed early in the disease process and that contribute to key aspects of the behavioral deficits and underlying pathology. This knowledge will allow for improved diagnosis and the initiation of pharmacotherapeutic discovery programs. We are seeking a Post-Doctoral Fellow to work with a team of graduate students and technical staff. The research duties will include surgical manipulation in rats followed by behavioral, biochemical, histological and MRI analysis.

If interested, please contact Dr. Stewart Clark directly (stewartc@buffalo.edu)

Research Technician – The Hospital for Sick Children – Jia Laboratory

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Under the supervision of the Project Investigator, the Technologist II – RI will assist with neurobehavioural research. Specifically, our lab focuses on understanding the molecular and synaptic mechanisms underlying social memory using mouse and zebrafish models.

Your responsibilities will include but are not limited to:

  • Performing electrophysiology, molecular biology, imaging and behavioural experiments
  • Maintaining animal colonies
  • Collecting experimental data, verifying results, preforming analysis and passing on findings
  • Working in collaboration with team of researchers and trainees

Qualifications:

  • Masters or Bachelor’s Degree in Physiology, Neuroscience, Molecular Genetics, Cell Biology or equivalent degree
  • Minimum 2 years relevant experience preferably in a basic neuroscience research laboratory setting
  • Minimum one (1) year of experience with molecular biology techniques (e.g. cloning, PCR, western blotting, preparation of buffers and standard solutions), genetic methods (e.g. the design and execution of genetic crosses), and microscopy techniques, including preparation of specimens for immunofluorescence microscopy
  • Experience with online molecular biology analysis tools (e.g. BLAST and primer design tools)
  • Experience working with mice and/or zebrafish is preferred
  • Electrophysiology experience is considered an asset
  • Demonstrated experience interpreting experimental results, troubleshooting experiments, and managing priorities and deadlines
  • Experience with computer software tools (e.g. Microsoft Office, R/SPSS, and Adobe Photoshop/Illustrator)
  • Coding experience (preferably Python) will be considered an asset
  • Strong oral and written communication skills, ability to exercise initiative and deal effectively with other lab members

To be successful in this role you will be:

  • Approachable
  • Diligent
  • Efficient
  • Organized
  • Problem solver
  • Team player

Employment Type:

1 year contract (full time) with a possibility of extension

A complete application should include a statement of interest, a CV, and the names of 2 references. Once the suitable candidate is identified, the position will commence immediately upon completion of the necessary paperwork. The position will remain open until filled.
Contact information

Please apply on the SickKids career portal: https://bit.ly/2PQK8jA

Posting end date 2020/08/26

Post-doctoral Position Available in the Translational Cognitive Neuroscience Lab (Dr. Tim Bussey & Dr. Lisa Saksida) studying molecular and cellular mechanisms of information storage and neurogenesis in the hippocampus using cutting-edge neurotechnology (e.g., miniscopes, fiber photometry and touchscreen technology).

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A postdoctoral position is available immediately under the supervision of Dr. Lisa Saksida and Dr. Tim Bussey at the Robarts Research Institute, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario (www.tcnlab.uwo.ca), in collaboration with the Dr. Mark Brandon and colleagues at McGill University (www.m3platform.org), to work on questions relating to molecular and cellular mechanisms of information storage and neurogenesis in the hippocampus. The work will involve recording and analyzing neuronal activity using miniscopes and fibre photometry, in combination with advanced cognitive testing using touchscreens (www.touchscreencognition.org).

Qualified applicants should have a PhD degree in Neuroscience or related disciplines with significant expertise in studying mouse models and advanced mathematical and analytical skills. Prior experience in miniscope data analysis, mouse surgery, fibre photometry, in vivo electrophysiology, or data analysis using MatLab, Python and R, documented in peer-reviewed publications will be an asset. Salary will be paid commensurate with experience.

Robarts is one of the premier research institutes in Canada with a vibrant research community and many opportunities for collaborations. The University of Western Ontario (www.uwo.ca) is a major educational and research centre in Ontario with over 25,000 undergraduate and 5,000 graduate students. Cognitive neuroscience in health and disease is a major research focus at Western, currently funded by a $66M Canada First Research Excellence Fund program called BrainsCAN. London, also known as the Forest City, is an affordable and lively community close to the Great Lakes and two hours from Toronto. The city offers many options for outdoor and cultural activities.

Western is committed to employment equity and diversity in the workplace and welcomes applications from women, members of racialized groups/visible minorities, Aboriginal persons, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation, and persons of any gender identity or gender expression.

Please send a statement of interest, Curriculum Vitae, and the names of at least two references to:

Dr. Lisa Saksida, Robarts Research Institute, University of Western Ontario Email: lsaksida@robarts.ca

Posting end date: 2020/12/31

Two year funded Postdoctoral position, University of Victoria – Kerry Delaney lab

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Electrophysiology of mutant versus wildtype neurons in a mouse model of Rett Syndrome.

Researcher with experience in whole cell patch clamp recording from neurons in acute brain slices is required to undertake recording from neurons in neocortex and thalamus of mice lacking functional MeCP2. Mecp2 is an X-linked transcription factor controlling various aspects of neuronal and synapse maturation. Studies will be performed primarily on female heterozygous mice utilizing a GFP-based nuclear marker to differentiate neurons expressing wild-type Mecp2 from those expressing a non-functional (mutated) allele. Optogenetic stimulation of virally-expressed channel rhodopsin will be used to investigate the relative strength of thalamo-cortical connections and cortico-thalamic feedback pathways to wild-type versus mutant neurons. Funded by the International Rett Syndrome Foundation.

Contact Dr. Kerry Delaney, kdelaney@uvic.ca

More information about UVic Neuroscience can be found at https://www.uvic.ca/medsci/neuroscience/

The Delaney lab: https://web.uvic.ca/~neurolab

Publications:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=delaney+rett

Contact information

Dr. Kerry Delaney.
Professor, Biology Department, University of Victoria
email: kdelaney@uvic.ca
Phone: 250-472-5657
The Delaney lab: https://web.uvic.ca/~neurolab

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Posting end date: 2020-08-31

Post-Doctoral Fellow – SOAR Project (UBCO)

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A Postdoctoral Fellow position is available to work on the SOAR (Supporting Survivors of Abuse and Brain Injury through Research) Project in the School of Health and Exercise Sciences at UBC-Okanagan

Research Program Overview A post-doctoral position is available in the Brain Injury Lab led by Dr. Paul van Donkelaar in the School of Health and Exercise Sciences at the University of British Columbia’s Okanagan campus. The successful candidate will be a key member of the SOAR project team investigating the cerebrovascular, neurocognitive, and sensorimotor effects of traumatic brain injury (TBI) in women who have experienced intimate partner violence (IPV). Our well-funded multidisciplinary program integrates researchers in clinical neuroscience, cerebrovascular physiology, psychopathology, social work, sociology, knowledge translation, and implementation science, with the goal of better understanding IPV-related TBI. As part of this, we are working with the Kelowna Women’s Shelter and other community partners to co-create, implement, and evaluate tools and resources to better support the women they serve. The incumbent would be expected to take a leadership role in the lab-based assessment of brain function in IPV-caused TBI and contribute to broader project goals in collaboration with other team members.

Qualifications PhD required. Experience with, or the capacity to acquire the necessary skills to undertake, the assessment of cerebrovascular, neurocognitive, and/or sensorimotor function following TBI. An understanding and/or knowledge of gender-based violence and its effects would be an asset. Seeking a creative individual who can integrate cerebrovascular, neurocognitive and sensorimotor measures of brain dysfunction following IPV-related TBI. The ability to further contribute to related projects in the lab on sports concussion and post-concussion syndrome is desirable.

Individuals must also:

  • Work well in a goal-oriented team environment
  • Have a proven track record of research accomplishments (i.e. publication record)
  • Possess excellent communication skills – both verbal and written
  • Have the ability to work independently and organize own workload
  • Have the ability to design and analyze experiments, keep meticulous records of experiments and data, report on research progress and outcomes openly, and review methodologies in response to feedback &
  • Have the ability to update knowledge in their specialized area and implement relevant technologies to advance the project.

Other considerations

This position is available from September 1st, 2020 and will be a based on a one-year renewable contract, extendable depending on funding availability. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. Candidates are strongly encouraged to apply for competitive fellowship awards.

A letter of application, accompanied by a detailed curriculum vitae including a list of publications, and contact details for 3 references, should be sent by email to:

Professor Paul van Donkelaar paul.vandonkelaar@ubc.ca

Please include “SOAR Project PDF search” in the e-mail subject line. Applications will remain open until the position is filled. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. We will contact you only if invited for an interview.

Equity and diversity are essential to academic excellence. An open and diverse community fosters the inclusion of voices that have been underrepresented or discouraged. We encourage applications from members of groups that have been marginalized on any grounds enumerated under the B.C. Human Rights Code, including sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, racialization, disability, political belief, religion, marital or family status, age, and/or status as a First Nation, Metis, Inuit, or Indigenous person. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.

Contact information

Dr. Paul van Donkelaar
School of Health and Exercise Sciences
University of British Columbia – Okanagan Campus
Kelowna, B.C.
phone: 250-863-3230
email: paul.vandonkelaar@ubc.ca

Posting end date

2020/11/01

CAN Submission to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Finances

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We have made the following recommendations

Recommendation 1: That the government of Canada provide a one-time 25% increase in investment in the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) for research restart and recovery from the setback of the COVID-19 pandemic to research laboratories in Canada.

Recommendation 2: The government should commit to providing robust and reliable funding for basic discovery research to sustain and grow Canada’s scientific community. Funding to the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) should be increased by at least 10% yearly, until commensurate with other G7 countries. This recommendation is in accordance with the Fundamental Science Review and will ensure Canada’s research ecosystem is healthy and resilient to face any future challenge. Continue reading →

COVID impact survey results

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Thank you to all our members and colleagues who responsed to our survey on the impact of COVID-19 on researchers and laboratories in Canada. The full results of the survey are available here:

CAN-ACN survey on impact of COVID-19 on researchers and laboratories in Canada

This data will be used to support our recommendations to the House of Commons Standing committee on Finances, for their consultations in advance of the next federal budget.

Tenure-track Assistant Professor in Neurobiology of Aging and Dementia – Queen’s University

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Tenure-track Assistant Professor in Neurobiology of Aging and Dementia

Department of Biomedical & Molecular Sciences and Department of Psychiatry

Centre for Neuroscience Studies

Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario CANADA

The Departments of Biomedical & Molecular Sciences and Psychiatry in the Faculty of Health Sciences and the Centre for Neuroscience Studies at Queen’s University are seeking an outstanding early to mid-career scientist and educator with passion, energy, and a strong vision for innovative research in the area of neurobiology of aging and dementia. The research strengths of the preferred candidate need to complement at least one of the existing fields of neuroscience specialization within the faculty, which include: (i) cellular/molecular neuroscience, (ii) systems neuroscience, (iii) cognitive/behavioural neuroscience, and (iv) clinical neuroscience. More specifically, areas of particular interest include conditions associated with aging and neurological disease progression, such as but not limited to Alzheimer’s disease/dementia, Parkinson’s disease, mood disorders/depression, and autism spectrum disorders. The preferred candidate will need to demonstrate that they are an emerging leader in innovative, translational research approaches and methodologies, including proven experience with pre-clinical rodent or non-human primate research models in neuroscience (including aging-related conditions) that could foster collaborations locally, nationally and internationally.

Thus, the preferred candidate must have a distinguished track record of discovery and innovative research, and an ability to collaborate with colleagues in the Departments of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, the Department of Psychiatry, Providence Care Hospital, the Centre for Neuroscience Studies, as well as with other scientists and clinical researchers at Queen’s University. Evidence that the candidate has the capacity to develop and deliver educational content in the area of neuropharmacology to both undergraduate and graduate programs will be an important selection criterion as well.

This search is oriented toward a tenure-track appointment at the rank of Assistant Professor with a preferred starting date of July 1, 2020. A tenured position at the rank of Associate Professor may be considered in the case of an exceptional candidate. Candidates must have a PhD or equivalent degree completed at the start date of the appointment. As part of the submitted application, the successful candidate will: (i) provide evidence of high-quality scholarly output that demonstrates potential for independent research leading to peer-assessed publications and an externally-funded world-class research program; and (ii) demonstrate strong potential to make outstanding teaching contributions at both the undergraduate and graduate levels and an ongoing commitment to academic and pedagogical excellence in support of the Departments’ programs. Applicants will be expected to provide evidence of an ability to work collaboratively in an interdisciplinary and student-centred environment. The successful candidate will make contributions through service to the Departments, the Faculty, the University, and/or the broader community. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

People from across Canada and around the world come to learn, teach and carry out research at Queen’s University. Faculty and their dependents are eligible for an extensive benefits package including prescription drug coverage, vision care, dental care, long term disability insurance, life insurance and access to the Employee and Family Assistance Program. You will also participate in a pension plan. Tuition assistance is available for qualifying employees, their spouses and dependent children. Queen’s values families and is pleased to provide a ‘top up’ to government parental leave benefits for eligible employees on maternity/parental leave. In addition, Queen’s provides partial reimbursement for eligible daycare expenses for employees with dependent children in daycare. Details are set out in the Queen’s-QUFA Collective Agreement. For more information on employee benefits, see Queen’s Human Resources.

Additional information about Queen’s University can be found on the Faculty Recruitment and Support website. The University is situated on the traditional territories of the Haudenosaunee and Anishinaabe, in historic Kingston on the shores of Lake Ontario. Kingston’s residents enjoy an outstanding quality of life with a wide range of cultural, recreational, and creative opportunities. Visit Inclusive Queen’s for information on equity, diversity and inclusion resources and initiatives.

Queen’s University is host to numerous research centres and research groups, housing scientists with research interests that will complement the successful applicant. These include the Centre for Neuroscience Studies (CNS); the Human Mobility Research Centre (HMRC Queen’s Chronic Pain Clinic at Hotel-Dieu Hospital); the Cardiac, Circulatory and Respiratory Research Group and Queen’s Cardiopulmonary Unit (QCPU); the Group for Research in Reproductive and Developmental Origins of Health, Disability and Disease; the Infection, Immunity and Inflammation Research Group; and the Queen’s Cancer Research Institute (QCRI). These groups and units maintain extensive collaborations with researchers locally, nationally, and internationally. They deploy an array of platforms to support transdisciplinary research teams interested in developing clinical tools for early diagnosis of disease, assessing prognosis and progression, and for predicting therapeutic response. Additionally, the Centre for Advanced Computing at Queen’s delivers a world-class high-performance computing environment and storage resources.

The University invites applications from all qualified individuals. Queen’s is committed to employment equity and diversity in the workplace and welcomes applications from women, visible minorities, Aboriginal peoples, persons with disabilities, and LGBTQ persons. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, in accordance with Canadian Immigration requirements, Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada will be given priority. To comply with Federal laws, the University is obliged to gather statistical information about how many applicants for each job vacancy are Canadian citizens / permanent residents of Canada. Applicants need not identify their country of origin or citizenship, however, all applications must include one of the following statements: “I am a Canadian citizen / permanent resident of Canada”; OR, “I am not a Canadian citizen / permanent resident of Canada”. Applications that do not include this information will be deemed incomplete.

In addition, the impact of certain circumstances that may legitimately affect a nominee’s record of research achievement will be given careful consideration when assessing the nominee’s research productivity. Candidates are encouraged to provide any relevant information about their experience and/or career interruptions.

A complete application consists of:

  • a cover letter (including one of the two statements regarding Canadian citizenship / permanent resident status specified in the previous paragraph);
  • a current curriculum vitae (including a comprehensive list of publications, awards, and grants received);
  • a statement of current and prospective research interests and experience;
  • a statement of teaching experience and interests together with a teaching portfolio (including teaching outlines and evaluations if available);
  • the names and contact information of a minimum of three referees, one of whom must be at arm’s length.

The deadline for applications is August 13, 2020. Applications will continue to be reviewed until a suitable candidate is found. Applicants are asked to send all documents in their application packages electronically as PDFs to the attention of Dr. Lynne-Marie Postovit, Professor and Head, Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, K7L 3N6. Please email to the attention of Ms. Jackie Moore in the Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences at dbmsrecruit@queensu.ca.

The University will provide support in its recruitment processes to applicants with disabilities, including accommodation that takes into account an applicant’s accessibility needs. If you require accommodation during the interview process, please contact: Jackie Moore in the Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences at dbmsrecruit@queensu.ca.

Academic staff at Queen’s University are governed by a Collective Agreement between the University and the Queen’s University Faculty Association (QUFA), which is posted at http://queensu.ca/facultyrelations/faculty-librarians-and-archivists/collective-agreement and at http://qufa.ca.

Contact information

Ms. Jackie Moore

Administrative Assistant

Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences

Queen’s University

dbmsrecruit@queensu.ca

 

View/download a PDF version of this advertisement

 

Posting end date

2020/09/01