Author: Julie

Director of the Neuro (Montreal Neurological Institute Hospital)

Posted on | by Julie

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

DIRECTOR OF THE NEURO

(MONTREAL NEUROLOGICAL INSTITUTE-HOSPITAL)

a joint leadership position within the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University and the McGill University Health Centre

The McGill University Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences and the McGill University Health Centre invite applications for a full-time position at the rank of Full Professor as Director of The Neuro (Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital)

Since its creation in 1934, the Montreal Neurological Institute of McGill University (MNI) and the Montreal Neurological Hospital of the McGill University Health Centre (MNH)—together referred to as The Neuro (Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital)—have been at the forefront of research into the causes and the treatment of neurological disease. With more than 1,500 staff and trainees, The Neuro is one of the leading comprehensive neurological centres in the world, recognized for the seamless integration of world-class neuroscience research with outstanding clinical neurology and neurosurgery programs. At the core of The Neuro’s philosophy is the notion that high-impact research and cutting-edge clinical care are best driven by scientists and clinicians who are experts in their respective areas and work in close proximity, facilitating the exchange between bench and bedside. The Neuro’s status as a premier neuroscience institution with outstanding facilities and a commitment to Open Science attracts leading investigators, including a strong cadre of clinician-scientists, and accomplished clinicians. It maintains key collaborations with neuroscientists not only across the McGill network, but also with scientists across Québec, throughout Canada, and internationally. The Neuro has a long history of success in training and education and attracts clinical and basic science students and visiting scholars from around the world.

As a teaching and research institute of McGill University, The Neuro is at the centre of McGill’s strategic plan in research and training in the neurosciences, is the home of North America’s largest graduate program—the Integrated Program in Neurosciences—and a key site for McGill’s clinical training programs in Neurology and Neurosurgery. As the cornerstone of the McGill University Health Centre’s Neuroscience Mission, The Neuro provides high-calibre specialized patient care.

The Neuro provides comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care for the full spectrum of neurological disorders. The hospital has 85 inpatient beds, including a neuro-intensive care unit, four surgical suites, state-of-the-art interventional neuroradiology, advanced CT, MEG, PET and MR imaging facilities, specialty outpatient clinics, a day hospital, rehabilitation and clinical research facilities. Neurosurgeons and neurologists, together with other specialists, hold academic appointments in the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences of McGill University. This uniquely integrated group of 120 faculty members (including 97 principal investigators, over 68 physicians, ~30 clinician-scientists), 200+ nurses, and ~40 allied health professionals work closely with an interdisciplinary team of over 350 healthcare professionals representing specialized nursing and rehabilitation services and clinical support staff to provide world-class health care for neurological patients, seamlessly integrated with basic research. This environment provides exceptional training for the next generation of leaders in the clinical and translational neurosciences.

Our dedicated team of experts lead international research teams that generate research and translational support from grants, awards, and contracts of approximately $55 million per year. The Neuro’s multidisciplinary teams generate fundamental information that spans the full spectrum of neuroscience from cell and molecular biology to brain imaging and cognitive neuroscience. Over 40+ neurology and neurosurgery residents and 300 graduate students and postdoctoral fellows from around the world pursue scientific training at The Neuro each year.

The Clinical Research Unit (CRU) at The Neuro ranks among the largest neurological research centres in Canada, conducting more than 100 clinical trials each year. The Neuro’s CRU team consists of a diverse group of professionals from a wide range backgrounds, including nurses, physical therapists, study coordinators, laboratory technicians, research ethics coordinators, and trial finance managers. Our teams have extensive expertise in managing complex protocols and cutting-edge therapeutics; we are committed to finding new and better medicines for people living with neurological diseases, all while producing top-line data for pharmaceutical companies and other research organizations. 

Vision

McGill, its Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, and the MUHC are committed to a vision of The Neuro as a hub for path-breaking research and discovery in the neurosciences for North America and the world, inextricably linked to its role in providing outstanding neurological care. The breadth of research at The Neuro ranges from work done at the McConnell Brain Imaging Centre on how humans appreciate music to cellular and molecular research on mitochondrial disorders, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis. In the coming years, opportunities will include renewal of clinical infrastructure and interdisciplinary clinical care, a potential move to the McGill University Health Centre’s Glen site, and reimagining research and innovation to effectively tackle important questions in clinical neuroscience and bring that knowledge to bear to improve the care of people living with neurological disorders.

  1. The Position

This major leadership role is a joint position of Director of the Montreal Neurological Institute (MNI) and Director of the Montreal Neurological Hospital (MNH). The reporting line for the former is to the Vice-President, Health Affairs and Dean of the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, and for the latter to the Associate President and Executive Director of the MUHC. The successful candidate will assume strategic, operational, academic, and financial responsibilities for The Neuro, while maintaining close partnerships with both campus-based research and education programs and with the clinical care, research, and teaching activities at the MUHC and Research Institute of the MUHC. This will include co-management of clinical teams with the Associate Director of Nursing, Neurosciences Mission, MUHC. Broadly, the new Director will be expected to promote excellence in research, teaching, and clinical care at The Neuro.

Key priorities for this exciting and challenging position will include:

  • developing the structures and mechanisms to sustain and enhance research excellence;
  • supporting excellence in teaching in the neurosciences at all levels;
  • promoting excellence in clinical care;
  • enhancing the provincial, national, and international profile of The Neuro and its role as a hub for path-breaking research and discovery with clinical impact in the neurosciences.
  1. Candidate Profile

1.           Strategic leadership

McGill and the MUHC are looking for a visionary individual who is collaborative and capable of developing and implementing a vision by actively obtaining input from varied constituencies and stakeholders, finding alignment, implementing change, and effectively motivating diverse members of a large, complex organization.

2.           Effective proponent of integrated research, exceptional clinical care, and innovative teaching

The successful candidate will hold an MD and/or a PhD, have a record of internationally recognized research excellence as well as substantive experience in the clinical neurosciences. A clinician-scientist profile is preferred. The incumbent will be expected to demonstrate a clear commitment to the vision of world-class research linked seamlessly with excellence in clinical care and will have a strong sense of the bench-to-bedside trajectory. Knowledge of the Québec healthcare system and a record of achievement in translational neuroscience will be considered an asset. MD applicants who intend to practice clinically must be licensed or eligible for licensure in the province of Québec.

3.           General management abilities

The ideal candidate will be an established leader with a record of success in managing complex units. Experience in navigating institutional, academic, and public policy channels to make progress on multifaceted issues is expected, as is a strong commitment to equity and inclusion. As this position involves frequent interaction with the Québec government and other Québec-based partners, the ability to communicate effectively in French, as well as in English, is required. Previous endeavours will be characterized by innovation and creativity that speak to an entrepreneurial mindset. In addition, demonstrated success in attracting, mentoring, and motivating diverse research, clinical and academic staff in support of a shared mission of excellence is expected.

4.           Fundraising acumen

The successful candidate will be fully committed to contributing to the fundraising mission of The Neuro. Developing and leveraging strategic, long-term fundraising relationships are important to The Neuro’s success. The successful candidate must demonstrate the skills and willingness needed to be effective in this regard.

  1. Term and Salary

The Director position has a 5-year term that is renewable. The salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

  1. Appointment

The successful candidate will be appointed as a Full Professor in the Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery at McGill University’s Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences and appointed to the appropriate Hospital position at the MUHC. A tenure stream position will be available for the appropriate candidate.

The successful candidate will be expected to be actively involved in all aspects of McGill’s academic mission (i.e., research, teaching, supervision of students and residents, and involvement in academic and administrative committees).

McGill faculty members are also expected to contribute to service activities within their units, the University, and the wider scholarly community. A demonstrated commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion is also expected.

The following supporting documents are required:

  • CV and cover letter describing leadership experience and vision;
  • Statement of research (limit one page and may include up to five pages of supporting documents);
  • The names and contact information of three referees.

Applications must be submitted online via the McGill Careers Site:

https://mcgill.wd3.myworkdayjobs.com/McGill_Careers/job/Montreal-Neuro/Director-of-The-Neuro–Montreal-Neurological-Institute-Hospital—-A-joint-position_JR0000066888

Candidates should submit their application within 30 days of publication of this advertisement. For any questions regarding the recruitment process, please contact the primary recruiter at liliana.ospina@mcgill.ca or acadsec.med@mcgill.ca.

McGill University is an English-language university where most teaching and research activities are conducted in the English language, thereby requiring English communication both verbal and written.

L’Université McGill est une institution de langue anglaise dans laquelle la majorité des activités d’enseignement et de recherche s’effectuent en langue anglaise, rendant essentielle l’utilisation de l’anglais pour la communication orale et écrite.

McGill University

Founded in 1821, McGill University is home to exceptional students, faculty, and staff from across Canada and around the world. It is consistently ranked as one of the top universities, both nationally and internationally. It is a world-renowned institution of higher learning with over 39,000 students, 14,000 faculty and staff, and 325,000 alumni from over 180 countries around the world. Located in the heart of Montreal, McGill counts itself among the finest research-intensive universities in the world. With a strong focus on interdisciplinary learning and celebrated for its rigorous intellectual pursuits and commitment to nurturing a diverse community of scholars, students, and staff, McGill University is a hub for intellectual curiosity, creativity, and growth.

The McGill University Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences is comprised of 5,480 academics, 970 staff members, 5,931 students, residents, and fellows, 6 schools, and 2,212 graduate student researchers based within McGill’s network and 3 large academic health and social services centres located across 4 major urban teaching sites. Our dedicated team of experts are committed to uniting science and humanism to train outstanding health professionals and scientists who together lead the discovery, innovation, and care needed to improve the health of Québecers and communities around the world.

The McGill University Centre

The McGill University Health Centre (MUHC) is an adult and paediatric academic health centre, affiliated with McGill’s Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, with an international reputation for excellence in clinical care, research and education. It has a responsibility for assuring tertiary paediatric and adult services for the University Integrated Health and Social Services Network of McGill (RUISSS McGill) across a vast territory of Québec in addition to providing comprehensive healthcare services to its local community. Patients receive care in English and French, as desired, while the MUHC assures interpretative services are available in a host of languages as may be necessary to support the multicultural population it serves. 

The MUHC is the result of a voluntary merger in 1997 of the Montreal General Hospital (1821), the Royal Victoria Hospital (1893), the Montreal Chest Institute (1903), the Montreal Children’s Hospital (1904), and the Montreal Neurological Hospital (1934). In 2008, the Lachine Hospital (1913) and the CHSLD Camille-Lefebvre became part of the MUHC. On December 1, 2024, the MUHC became an establishment of Santé Québec, Québec’s new single employer for health and social services. The Research Institute of the MUHC (1997) brings together eight (8) research programs in adult and child health. It accelerates the translation of biomedical research to improve human health.

The MUHC’s vision is to make a local to global impact by mobilizing together on sustainable, innovative practices, research, and teaching that deliver compassionate world-class complex care to people of all ages and promote a healthier planet. Our teams value excellence, compassion, respect and integrity, as well as collaboration.

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 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, this email accessibilityrequest.hr@mcgill.ca or by phone at 514-398-2477.

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

Brain Star Award feature: Hayley Renee Christine Shanks, Western University

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Hayley Shanks

Phase 2a clinical trial reveals a small molecule called LM11A-31 is safe and slows progression of many features of Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a debilitating neurodegenerative disorder for which there is no cure. Therapeutics available to the approximately 734,000 Canadians living with AD provide symptom management without slowing disease progression. Hayley Renee Christine Shanks, working in the laboratory of Dr. Taylor Schmitz at Western University, adopted a novel approach to AD therapeutics by targeting “deep biology” — that is, receptors that control multiple fundamental cellular pathways and may therefore normalize multiple pathological processes underlying AD. This “deep biology” target, called the p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR), plays a critical role in determining  whether cells degenerate or survive. This receptor was discovered approximately 30 years ago and is widely studied in the fields of developmental neuroscience and neurology.

In AD, p75NTR is a key receptor that mediates neuronal dysfunction, neurodegeneration, and glial reactivity. Research in AD mouse models indicates that modulation of p75NTR with a small molecule called LM11A-31 promotes neuronal resilience and reduces neuroinflammation. Building on this work, Shanks et al. (2024), Nature Medicine, was the first publication to examine selective modulation of p75NTR in individuals with AD.

Read the full story here: https://can-acn.org/brain-star-award-winner-hayley-renee-christine-shanks/

Read the original research article here:

Shanks, HRC, Chen, K, Reiman, EM, Blennow, K, Cummings, JL, Massa, SM, Longo, FM, Börjesson-Hanson, A, Windisch, M, Schmitz, TW. p75 neurotrophin receptor modulation in mild to moderate Alzheimer disease: a randomized, placebo-controlled phase 2a trial. Nat Med 30, 1761–1770 (2024).  https://doi.org/10.1038/s41591-024-02977-w

https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-024-02977-w

Post-doctoral position in Neural Stem Cells – University of Ottawa

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  • Position: Post-doctoral Position
  • Deadline: 15 July 2025
  • Employment Start Date: 1 September 2025
  • Contract Length: 2-3 years
  • City: Ottawa
  • Country: Canada
  • Institution: University of Ottawa
  • Department: Cellular and Molecular Medicine

Description:

Interested in Neural Stem Cells (NSCs) physiology and function? Want to monitor NSCs activation and division using in vivo live imaging approaches in behaving animals and link it to animal behavior? We are hiring!

Post-doctoral position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Armen Saghatelyan (https://www.saghatelyanlab.com/research) at the University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada, to monitor NSCs activation in freely behaving mice and decipher the molecular and cellular mechanisms allowing NSCs to decode and integrate different micro-environmental signals. We use multidisciplinary approaches combining in vivo mini-endoscopic imaging of NSCs in freely behaving mice, in vivo and ex vivo Ca2+ imaging, optogenetic stimulations and behavioral tracking, as well as CRISPR-Cas9 and transgenic mice to manipulate specific molecular pathways.

For more information, please see

Gengatharan et al., Cell, 2021 (PMID: 33482084)
Marymonchyk, Rodriguez-Aller et al., Cell Stem Cell, 2025 (PMID: 39919748).

We are looking for highly motivated applicants with expertise in imaging.

Interested applicants should send CV, statement of research interest and the names and contact information of 2-3 referees to Dr. Armen Saghatelyan (asaghate@uottawa.ca).

Contact Details

Name: Armen Saghatelyan

Address: University of Ottawa Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine University of Ottawa Brain & Mind Institute Faculty of Medicine University of Ottawa 451 Smyth Rd Ottawa, ON K1V 9L7

Email: asaghate@uottawa.ca

URL: https://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-medicine/dr-armen-saghatelyan

Assistant or Associate Professor (tenure-track type) in Addiction and Mental Health

Posted on | by Julie

Assistant or Associate Professor (tenure-track type) in Addiction and Mental Health

Neuroscience Axis, Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l’UdeM (CRCHUM)

Department of Psychiatry and Addictology, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal (UdeM)

The Neuroscience Research Axis of the CRCHUM and the Department of Psychiatry and Addictology of the UdeM are inviting applications for a faculty position in human addiction and mental health. Early career candidates are encouraged to apply (exceptional mid-career applicants will also be considered).

The candidate will be expected to develop an independent, competitive, and original research program that addresses questions linking expertise in digital phenotyping, ‘omics’ approaches (e.g., epigenomics, transcriptomics, etc.), the study of mechanisms underlying therapeutic approaches and/or functional brain imaging (MEG, PET, fMRI, etc.) applied to addiction and psychiatric comorbidities. Individuals with expertise in combining multiple cutting-edge approaches and working with human data and samples, or in conducting high-level analyses based on artificial intelligence and/or precision medicine, are strongly encouraged to apply. The selected candidate will be expected to foster collaborations with researchers within the Neuroscience Research Axis and other research axes at the CRCHUM, as well as with members of the Department of Psychiatry of the Centre hospitalier de l’UdeM (CHUM).

The CRCHUM is one of the largest hospital-based research centers in North America, with nearly 500 researchers. The Neuroscience Research Axis at the CRCHUM is primarily dedicated to uncovering the biological, environmental, and social mechanisms underlying nervous system disorders, and to developing innovative therapies to prevent, treat, or cure them. The axis includes 21 regular researchers (including 11 clinician-scientists) working across five main research themes: neurodegeneration/neurorepair, neuroimmunology, epilepsy, neurovascular research, and addiction/mental health. The UdeM is one of the world’s leading research universities, and represents the primary hub of higher education in the province of Quebec. The Department of Psychiatry and Addictology of the UdeM includes more than 330 professors and researchers across multiple sites, conducting clinical, epidemiological, basic, and social science research. The Department plays a key role in training psychiatrists and researchers with interest in mental health and substance use disorders in Quebec.

Please follow the link to learn more about the Neuroscience Axis of the CRCHUM: https://www.chumontreal.qc.ca/en/crchum/recherche/axes-recherche/neuroscience

And this one for the Department of Psychiatry and Addictology: https://psychiatrie.umontreal.ca/

Your Role

Through your teaching activities and research, you will contribute to the development and excellence of the CRCHUM, the Department of Psychiatry and Addictology, and the Faculty of Medicine of the UdeM. You will also ensure the visibility of your discipline in addition to actively participate in the operation of a renowned institution. As such, you must:

  • Develop and pursue an innovative research program on mental health and addiction, leveraging existing cutting-edge infrastructure to support this work and/or via the development and deployment of new infrastructure;
  • Take on a leadership role within the scientific community, both in Canada and internationally;
  • Build connections with existing research teams of the Neuroscience Axis and other research axes at the CRCHUM, as well as teams across sites affiliated with the Department of Psychiatry and Addictology of the UdeM. In this regard, the recruited candidate is expected to foster collaborations with scientists and clinicians having interests to understand the biological, environmental, and social mechanisms underlying psychiatric disorders and to develop new therapeutic strategies in mental health;
  • Teach at all university levels, supervise postdoctoral trainees, and contribute to the various activities of the institution and its affiliated centers.

By joining the Neuroscience Axis at the CRCHUM and the Department of Psychiatry and Addictology of the Faculty of Medicine, you will contribute to their mission of leadership in teaching and research through an innovative and interdisciplinary research program aimed at addressing major societal challenges related to mental health.

To succeed in this role, you’ll need

  • a PhD or an equivalent university degree;
  • a postdoctoral experience in clinical research, neuroscience, bioinformatics, epidemiology, biostatistics, or a related field (skills in deep learning or artificial intelligence will be considered an asset);
  • a research record that includes publications and other significant contributions related to psychiatric disorders (addiction) and mental health;
  • an interdisciplinary research expertise;
  • skills and motivation to develop research collaborations and to contribute to the activities of the institution and its affiliated centers;
  • the ability to provide high-quality university teaching and mentoring of students;
  • sufficient knowledge of the French language or be committed to learning it once in position, notably through the French language support program offered by the UdeM.

How to apply

You are invited to submit a single PDF document that includes the following in this order:

  • a cover letter (maximum of three pages);

**To comply with requirements of the Government of Canada, please include in this letter one of the following statements: “I am a Canadian citizen or permanent resident” or “I am not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident”;

  • a document detailing the research program to be pursued (maximum of three pages);
  • a curriculum vitæ;
  • up to five publications, including recent research work.

In addition, three letters of recommendation from peers familiar with your training and academic career must be sent to the email address below directly by the individuals who have written these letters.

The application package (a single file) and the letters of recommendation must be submitted by email before July 15, 2025, to:

Dr. Valérie Mongrain

Manager of the Neuroscience Axis, CRCHUM

Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, UdeM

Email (administrative agent): eve.beaulieu.chum@ssss.gouv.qc.ca

Dr. Didier Jutras-Aswad, Chief

Department of Psychiatry, CHUM

Department of Psychiatry and Addictology, Faculty of Medicine, UdeM

Additional information about the position

Application deadline

Until July 15, 2025, inclusively

Salary

The CRCHUM and the UdeM offer competitive salaries and a full range of benefits.

Starting date

As of October 1st, 2025 (negotiable).

EQUITY, DIVERSITY, AND INCLUSION

UdeM places the values of diversity, equity, and inclusion at the heart of each of its missions. Through its Equal Access Employment Program (EAEP), UdeM invites applications from women, Indigenous Peoples, visible and ethnic minorities, as well as persons with disabilities. We will – confidentially – adapt our recruitment mechanisms to the specific needs of people with disabilities who request it.

UdeM embraces a broad and inclusive definition of diversity that goes beyond applicable laws, and therefore encourages all qualified individuals to apply, regardless of their characteristics. However, in accordance with Canadian immigration requirements, priority will be given to Canadians and permanent residents.

In order to measure the impact of its equity, diversity, and inclusion actions, UdeM is collecting data on applicants who identify with one of the groups targeted by the Equal Employment Opportunity Act, namely women, Indigenous Peoples, visible minorities, ethnic minorities, and people with disabilities. The information you provide is strictly confidential and will be shared only with those responsible for the UdeM EAEP. If you wish, you may also indicate that you belong to one of the targeted groups in your cover letter, which will be reviewed by the selection committee and the assembly of peers.

Université de Montréal’s application process allows all members of the Professor’s Assembly to review the application files submitted. If you wish to keep your application confidential until the shortlist is established, please mention it in your application.

Download a PDF version of this advertisement

affichage neuro-psychiatrie CRCHUM ANG 20250512Download

Assistant/Associate Professor (Research), Single Cell Genomics, Department of Psychiatry (2 positions) – McGill University

Posted on | by Julie

https://mcgill.wd3.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/McGill_Careers/job/Douglas-Hosp-Burland/Assistant-Associate-Professor–Research—Single-Cell-Genomics–Department-of-Psychiatry–2-positions—C3-231215-_JR0000050127-1

Position Description

The McGill University Department of Psychiatry, in collaboration with the Douglas Research Centre (DRC) in the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, invites applications for a full-time Contract Academic Staff position at the rank of Assistant or Associate Professor (Research) in the field of Single Cell Genomics applied to the brain and mental disorders. The professorial rank will be determined according to the candidate’s qualifications and experience. This will be a three-year (renewable) appointment and does not confer eligibility for tenure. The role includes establishing an independent research program and supervising students.

The McGill University Department of Psychiatry has a rich history of scientific innovation with sustained expertise in psychotherapy, substance abuse research, psychoneuroendocrinology, psychoimmunology, genetics, epigenetics, advanced brain imaging, and computational and digital psychiatry. It remains a global leader in integrating cutting-edge science with clinical practice to train future psychiatric researchers and clinicians.

With over 55 researchers spanning a full range of mental health research (i.e., neuroscience, clinical services, policy, and epidemiology/population health), the Douglas Research Centre (DRC) has been an international leader in mental health research for more than 40 years. The DRC has been at the forefront of pioneering innovative methods in the field of psychiatry, including single-cell neurobiology, computational and digital psychiatry, (digital) biomarkers, and the use of novel methods and data for assessing mental health. The DRC has recently secured significant funding for a research program focused on using Single Cell approaches to gain insights into the brain and its related disorders. The DRC has a strong history of advancing interdisciplinary research programs, leveraging interdisciplinary approaches to better understand psychiatric disorders and translate these insights into clinical practice.

McGill University is one of Canada’s leading research-intensive universities, with students from over 140 countries. The university is located in Montreal, a cosmopolitan city with great cultural and linguistic diversity. It has long been considered a leader in neuroscience and a strong innovator in methods that support a wide spectrum of basic and clinical research endeavours. The university’s strong training programs in Biological and Biomedical Engineering, Psychiatry, and Quantitative Life Sciences as well as the Integrated Program in Neuroscience favour the development of strong multidisciplinary research teams.

Job Duties

The successful candidate will be involved in the academic activities of the McGill University Department of Psychiatry in the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. The incumbent will be expected to conduct rigorous cutting-edge research in the area of Single Cell Genomics applied to the brain and mental disorders. They will develop a fundamental, disease-relevant research program in their own areas of expertise, aligned with the strategic priorities of the Douglas Research Centre and the Department of Psychiatry.

Applicants with expertise and relevant experience developing new methodologies or applying established Single Cell approaches to animal or cell models of mental disorders or in the postmortem brain study of psychiatric disorders are encouraged to apply.

The incumbent will be appointed to the McGill University Department of Psychiatry; they will be expected to establish an independent research program, supervise students, and contribute to formal classroom teaching. The successful candidate will be expected to independently acquire funds to support the training of graduate students at the MSc and Ph.D. level. They will be expected to disseminate research findings through peer-reviewed publications and other knowledge translation and exchange activities, participate actively in all aspects of the Research Centre and McGill’s academic mission, demonstrating a strong commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion in all areas.

The successful candidate will also be expected to be actively involved in all aspects of McGill’s academic mission (i.e., teaching, research, supervision of students and residents, and involvement in academic and administrative committees).

McGill faculty members are expected to contribute to service activities within their units, the University, and the wider scholarly community. A demonstrated commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion is also expected.

Qualifications and Education Requirements

Candidates must:

  • Have a Ph.D. and have completed advanced postdoctoral training in a related field;
  • Demonstrate excellent research productivity and the ability to attract competitive funding;
  • Have a track record in the field of Single Cell Genomics;
  • Demonstrate a commitment to and, in accordance with circumstances, a track record in equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI);
  • Fluency in English is essential; a working knowledge of French, or a commitment to acquiring it within few years of appointment is preferred.

Note: For more information about the eligibility for promotion and reappointment, please consult the following link: https://www.mcgill.ca/apo/academic-life-cycle/contract-academic-staff-cas/ranked-cas

Faculty/Department/Unit: Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Psychiatry
Employee Type: Contract Academic Staff (‘Academic Contractual’)
Rank: Assistant/Associate Professor
Salary: Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience
Job Status: Full-time

Posting Period: 30 days from date of posting

The following supporting documents are required:

  • Cover letter and curriculum vitae;
  • Statement of research interests and goals;
  • Statement of teaching philosophy;
  • Names and contact information of three referees.

McGill University is an English-language university where most teaching and research activities are conducted in the English language, thereby requiring English communication both verbally and in writing.

L’Université McGill est une institution de langue anglaise dans laquelle la majorité des activités d’enseignement et de recherche s’effectuent en langue anglaise, rendant essentielle l’utilisation de l’anglais pour la communication orale et écrite.

Use a personal email address when creating an account in Workday to submit your application. Do not use @mail.mcgill.ca or @mcgill.ca email accounts to apply.

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.

https://mcgill.wd3.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/McGill_Careers/job/Douglas-Hosp-Burland/Assistant-Associate-Professor–Research—Single-Cell-Genomics–Department-of-Psychiatry–2-positions—C3-231215-_JR0000050127-1

Brain Star Award feature: Andrea Luppi, McGill University

Posted on | by Julie
Andrea Luppi

Understanding how the brain’s network architecture shapes its capacity to transition between different states

To support the diversity of human cognitive functions, such as learning, thinking, reasoning, remembering, problem solving, decision making, and attention, brain regions flexibly form and dissolve connections on the fly. How is the brain’s capacity to transition between different functional configurations shaped by brain network architecture? Andrea Luppi, working in Bratislav Misic’s lab at McGill University and the Montreal Neurological Institute, investigated this question using engineering principles of network control to simulate transitions between behaviourally derived brain states. They identified >100 cognitively relevant brain states in a data-driven manner, corresponding to activation patterns aggregated over 14,000 fMRI studies from a large collaborative database called NeuroSynth, and effectively mapped how brain network organization and chemoarchitecture interact to manifest these brain states. By leveraging large-scale databases of network structure, functional activation and neurotransmitter systems, the present work provides an integrative framework for the systematic exploration of the full range of possible transitions between experimentally defined brain states. This systematic approach allowed the researchers to discover the key role of the brain’s wiring diagram in supporting flexible transitions with high energetic efficiency, and how this efficiency can be disrupted by disease and restored by targeted pharmacology.

Read the full story here: https://can-acn.org/brain-star-award-winner-andrea-luppi/

View the original research article here:

Andrea I. Luppi, S. Parker Singleton, Justine Y. Hansen, Keith W. Jamison, Danilo Bzdok, Amy Kuceyeski, Richard F. Betzel & Bratislav Misic. Contributions of network structure, chemoarchitecture and diagnostic categories to transitions between cognitive topographies. Nature Biomedical Engineering 8, 1142–1161 (2024).

https://doi.org/10.1038/s41551-024-01242-2

Assistant Professor (Research), Department of Psychiatry, Artificial Intelligence in Psychiatry, McGill University

Posted on | by Julie

Reference # C1-250507
Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences – Department of Psychiatry and the Douglas Research Centre


Position description

The McGill University Department of Psychiatry, in collaboration with the Douglas Research Centre (DRC) in the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, invites applications for a full-time Contract Academic Staff position at the rank of Assistant Professor (Research) in Artificial Intelligence in Psychiatry (language and data science). The professorial rank will be determined according to the candidate’s qualifications and experience. This will be a three-year (renewable) appointment and does not confer eligibility for tenure. The role includes establishing an independent research program and supervising students.

The McGill University Department of Psychiatry has a rich history of scientific innovation with sustained expertise in psychotherapy, substance abuse research, psychoneuroendocrinology, psychoimmunology, genetics, epigenetics, advanced brain imaging, and computational and digital psychiatry. It remains a global leader in integrating cutting-edge science with clinical practice to train future psychiatric researchers and clinicians.

With over 55 researchers spanning a full range of mental health research (i.e., neuroscience, clinical services, policy, and epidemiology/population health), the Douglas Research Centre (DRC) has been an international leader in mental health research for more than 40 years. The DRC has been at the forefront of pioneering innovative methods in the field of psychiatry, including computational and digital psychiatry, (digital) biomarkers, and the use of novel methods and data for assessing mental health. The DRC has a strong history of advancing interdisciplinary research programs, leveraging interdisciplinary approaches to better understand psychiatric disorders and translate these insights into clinical practice. The Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, to which the holder of this post will be affiliated with, is a unique initiative that combines multiple disciplines of research and training for the service of youth facing mental health challenges.

McGill University is one of Canada’s leading research-intensive universities, with students from over 140 countries. The university is located in Montreal, a cosmopolitan city with great cultural and linguistic diversity. It has long been considered a leader in neuroscience and a strong innovator in methods that support a wide spectrum of basic and clinical research endeavours. The university’s strong training programs in Biological and Biomedical Engineering, Psychiatry, and Quantitative Life Sciences as well as the Integrated Program in Neuroscience favour the development of strong multidisciplinary research teams.

Job Duties

The successful candidate will be involved in the academic activities of the McGill University Department of Psychiatry in the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. The incumbent will be expected to have a track record in computational psychiatry, with expertise in natural language processing (NLP), computational linguistics, machine learning, and/or artificial intelligence methods. Scientists from any discipline, but with a focus on speech and language analysis, NLP-derived biomarkers, and computational modeling across psychiatric populations are especially encouraged to apply. Experience in either neuroimaging or longitudinal studies in early intervention is desirable. The successful candidate will be expected to actively interface and interact with other research programs, such as speech banks and cognitive neuroscience projects within the Douglas Research Centre, McGill University, and associated institutions. The incumbent will focus on two pillars of academic work. They will be expected to establish an independent research program and supervise students. The successful candidate will also be expected to conduct rigorous cutting-edge research, therefore augmenting the existing efforts of the Douglas Research Centre. The incumbent will be expected to develop a fundamental, disease-relevant research program in their own areas of expertise, aligned with the strategic priorities of the Douglas Research Centre and the McGill University Department of Psychiatry. The successful candidate will be expected to independently acquire funds to support the training of graduate students at the M.Sc. and Ph.D. level. The incumbent will also be expected to disseminate research findings through peer-reviewed publications and other knowledge translation and exchange activities, participate and be actively involved in the academic activities of the Douglas Research Centre and McGill’s academic mission, demonstrating a strong commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion in all areas. The successful candidate will also be expected to be actively involved in relevant aspects of McGill’s academic mission (e.g., research, supervision of students and residents, and involvement in academic and administrative committees). McGill faculty members are expected to contribute to service activities within their units, the University, and the wider scholarly community. A demonstrated commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion is also expected.

Qualifications and Education Requirements

Candidates must:

  • Have a Ph.D. in Computational Psychiatry, Computational Linguistics, Computer Science, Cognitive Neuroscience, or a related field;
  • Have completed advanced postdoctoral training;
  • Demonstrate excellent research productivity and the ability to attract competitive funding;
  • Demonstrate experience or significant potential in developing clinical prediction models, digital biomarkers, or computational language-based methods relevant to psychiatric populations;
  • Demonstrate a commitment to, and in accordance with circumstances, a track record in equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI);
  • Fluency in English is essential; a working knowledge of French, or a commitment to acquiring it within few years of appointment is preferred.


Note: For more information about the eligibility for promotion and reappointment, please consult the following link: https://www.mcgill.ca/apo/academic-life-cycle/contract-academic-staff-cas/ranked-cas


Faculty/Department/Unit: Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Psychiatry

Employee Type: Contract Academic Staff (‘Academic Contractual’) Rank: Assistant Professor (Research)

Salary: Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience

Job Status: Full-time

Posting Period: 30 Days from posting

The following supporting documents are required:

  • Cover letter and curriculum vitae;
  • Statement of research interests and goals;
  • Statement of teaching philosophy;
  • Names and contact information of three referees.

Use a personal email address when creating an account in Workday to submit your application. Do not use @mail.mcgill.ca or @mcgill.ca email accounts to apply.

McGill University is an English-language university where most teaching and research activities are conducted in the English language, thereby requiring English communication both verbally and in writing.
Applications must be submitted on-line at: https://mcgill.wd3.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/McGill_Careers/job/Douglas-Hosp-Burland/Assistant-Professor–Research—Department-of-Psychiatry–Artificial-Intelligence-in-Psychiatry—C1-250507-_JR0000066007

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.

Download a PDF version of this advertisement:

C1-250507_Artificial Intelligence in Psychiatry_DRC_ENDownload

Postdoctoral position available in the Breton-Provencher Lab at Université Laval to study neuromodulatory systems and foraging behavior

Posted on | by Julie
VBP lab logo

The Vincent Breton-Provencher lab (VBPLab) at the CERVO Brain Research Centre at Université Laval in Québec City, Canada, invites applications for a fully funded Postdoctoral Position. Our research group, founded in 2021, is dedicated to advancing our understanding of the neuronal mechanisms of learning and decision-making. We are particularly excited to recruit a promising scientist to investigate the interplay between neuromodulatory systems and cortical processing during foraging behavior.

Project Overview:

The successful candidate will lead a project investigating the neuronal processes supporting the encoding of reward expectation during foraging. While crucial for survival, the precise neuronal mechanisms governing this fundamental behavior remain poorly understood. Utilizing in vivo electrophysiology, optogenetics, and computational methods, this project aims to elucidate how prefrontal cortex neurons form short-term memories of reward to guide an animal’s actions. The research will examine interactions between prefrontal neurons and other brain regions, including the noradrenergic and dopaminergic systems. This project aligns with our lab’s focus on the influence of neuromodulatory systems on learning. Relevant publications include: Breton-Provencher and Sur, Nat. Neurosci. 2019; Breton-Provencher et al., Nature 2022; and Bouchard et al. bioRxiv 2025.
Our lab is equipped with advanced tools such as high-density electrophysiological recording systems, two-photon imaging, optogenetics, transgenic mouse lines for targeting specific neuronal subtypes, and behavioral rigs. We strongly encourage candidates interested in developing novel behavioral assays or analytical methods, particularly those keen on creating new paradigms for foraging behavior in freely moving mice.

Requirements:

  • Ph.D. in Neuroscience or a related field.
  • Proficiency in one or more of the following: in vivo electrophysiology, two-photon imaging, animal surgery, behavioral design, programming languages (Python/MATLAB), and data analysis.
  • Expertise and productivity in neuroscience research.
  • Independence in research, creative problem-solving skills, and a collaborative mindset.
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively within a team.

Lab Environment:

Our lab fosters a collaborative, supportive, and intellectually stimulating environment that encourages creativity, scientific rigor, and innovative thinking. Composed of individuals from diverse backgrounds including physics, engineering, biology, and neuroscience, our young lab offers abundant opportunities for professional growth and strongly supports independent research. We provide comprehensive support for various career paths, both within academia and industry. The lab is situated in Québec City, a location renowned for its safety, affordability, and family-friendly atmosphere.

Funding:

The project is funded by a Project Grant from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR; 2024-2029). Additionally, candidates are highly encouraged to apply to funding opportunities for international post-docs available through the Québec (e.g., FRQS) and Canadian (e.g., CIHR) funding systems. Note that applications for these funding opportunities are typically submitted in the Fall. The lab is also currently supported by the US Department of Defense, NSERC, CFI, FNFR, and the CERVO Research Centre.

Interested candidates of all backgrounds should submit a cover letter describing their past research, research interests, and career goal, along with a curriculum vitae.

Vincent Breton-Provencher
Assistant Professor
Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Université Laval
vbplab.com

Contact information:

Vincent.breton-provencher@cervo.ulaval.ca

Senior Scientist I (Peter Gilgan Chair in Neuroregeneration Research) – UHN

Posted on | by Julie

Full listing website

https://jobs.smartrecruiters.com/UniversityHealthNetwork/744000058922203-senior-scientist-i-peter-gilgan-chair-in-neuroregeneration-research-

Company Description

UHN is Canada’s #1 hospital and the world’s #1 publicly funded hospital. With 10 sites and more than 44,000 TeamUHN members, UHN consists of Toronto General Hospital, Toronto Western Hospital, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, The Michener Institute of Education and West Park Healthcare Centre. As Canada’s top research hospital, the scope of biomedical research and complexity of cases at UHN have made it a national and international source for discovery, education and patient care. UHN has the largest hospital-based research program in Canada, with major research in neurosciences, cardiology, transplantation, oncology, surgical innovation, infectious diseases, genomic medicine and rehabilitation medicine. UHN is a research hospital affiliated with the University of Toronto. 

UHN’s vision is to build A Healthier World and it’s only because of the talented and dedicated people who work here that we are continually bringing that vision closer to reality. 

www.uhn.ca 

Job Description

Union: Non-Union 
Site: Krembil Research Institute
Department: Research
Reports to: Research Institute Director
Work Model: On-Site
Hours: 37.5 hours per week
Shifts: Day
Status: Permanent Full-Time
Closing Date: July 31, 2025

The Krembil Brain Institute at University Health Network (UHN), a University of Toronto (U of T) teaching hospital, is seeking applicants for the inaugural Peter Gilgan Chair in Neuroregeneration Research. The successful candidate must already hold, or be eligible for, a full-time clinical or status-only academic appointment within the Temerty Faculty of Medicine, U of T, at the rank of Associate or Full Professor. The term of the Chair position is 5 years with the opportunity for one 5-year renewal following a successful review. The position will begin at a mutually agreeable time.

The Peter Gilgan Chair in Neuroregeneration Research will develop and lead research that supports multidisciplinary strategies to promote neuroregeneration in preclinical models with a goal of translating bench research to bedside impact. The role will involve active leadership, nationally and internationally, to advance research strategies for neuroregeneration. The Chairholder will integrate, build and strengthen the Institute’s efforts, and champion collaborative and integrative research to build bridges between the Krembil Brain Institute at UHN, U of T and other TAHSN hospitals. The Chairholder will also collaborate with and leverage the expertise of clinicians and researchers at the Krembil Brain Institute.

Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. A competitive benefits package is being offered along with support for relocation expenses.

Duties

  • The successful applicant has established and will continue to maintain an original, competitive, and independently funded research program of international caliber
  • Expected to teach at the undergraduate and graduate levels
  • The successful applicant will be appointed as a Senior Scientist at the Krembil Research Institute at UHN, and is expected to qualify for an academic cross-appointment as an Associate Professor (status only) at the University of Toronto

Qualifications

  • Candidates must have a Ph.D. or M.D. in a relevant scientific discipline, as well as significant postdoctoral research experience and an established record of research excellence
  • Candidates are expected to demonstrate evidence of 1) outstanding peer-reviewed publications in leading journals; 2) successful research funding (peer-reviewed grants, fellowships, etc.); 3) presentations at significant conferences; and 4) significant leadership experience in directing a research team
  • A complete package MUST include (please combine these into a SINGLE file to attach to the application):
    • A cover letter
    • Curriculum vitae
    • A research program proposal (up to 2 pages, excluding references)
    • Teaching and mentorship statement (1/2 page)
    • Equity, diversity and inclusivity statement (1/2 page)

Additional Information

Why join UHN?

In addition to working alongside some of the most talented and inspiring healthcare professionals in the world, UHN offers a wide range of benefits, programs and perks. It is the comprehensiveness of these offerings that makes it a differentiating factor, allowing you to find value where it matters most to you, now and throughout your career at UHN.

  • Competitive offer packages
  • Government organization and a member of the Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan (HOOPP https://hoopp.com/)
  • Close access to Transit and UHN shuttle service
  • A flexible work environment
  • Opportunities for development and promotions within a large organization
  • Additional perks (multiple corporate discounts including: travel, restaurants, parking, phone plans, auto insurance discounts, on-site gyms, etc.)

Current UHN employees must have successfully completed their probationary period, have a good employee record along with satisfactory attendance in accordance with UHN’s attendance management program, to be eligible for consideration.

All applications must be submitted before the posting close date.

UHN uses email to communicate with selected candidates.  Please ensure you check your email regularly.

Please be advised that a Criminal Record Check may be required of the successful candidate. Should it be determined that any information provided by a candidate be misleading, inaccurate or incorrect, UHN reserves the right to discontinue with the consideration of their application.

UHN is an equal opportunity employer committed to an inclusive recruitment process and workplace. Requests for accommodation can be made at any stage of the recruitment process. Applicants need to make their requirements known.

We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.

Research Assistant – University of Saskatchewan

Posted on | by Julie

Research Assistant, Medicine

Join a dynamic, world-class, well-funded basic and translational science team, led by Dr. Michael Levin, the Saskatchewan Multiple Sclerosis Clinical Research Chair. Dr. Levin offers personalized mentorship, state of the art laboratory facilities, and the opportunity for basic scientists to work hand-in-hand with clinicians in Saskatoon City Hospital and the University of Saskatchewan. This university laboratory is physically located in Saskatoon City Hospital, as part of the Cameco MS Neuroscience Research Centre.

Primary Purpose:

Our team studies neurodegeneration – the death and damage to neurons, and the major cause of permanent disability in multiple sclerosis (MS) and other neurological diseases. Using the latest in computer modeling, molecular and imaging technology, we have invented a series of small molecules that inhibit neurodegeneration and promote neuroprotection using both in vitro and small animal in vivo models of disease. We are looking for a research assistant with a strong background in molecular neurobiology that has experience in using primary mouse neurons, human induced pluripotent stem cells (IPSCs), small animal handling/testing as well as molecular biology (RNA/DNA isolation, RNAseq, AAVs, single cell isolation and sequencing, etc.) to test which small molecules can be moved forward in our pipeline to clinical trials in humans. Led by Dr. Michael Levin, the Saskatchewan Multiple Sclerosis Clinical Research Chair, you can learn more about our research by clicking on the following links: our TED Talk, ‘STOP MS IN ITS TRACKS!’ (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ucjHpjlvQo), showing our preliminary small molecule data and the basics of the experiments you will be doing, our lab and dynamic team members (LEVIN LAB, https://research-groups.usask.ca/skms-office/levin-lab.php), our most recent publication in Nature Communications (https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-023-44658-1 and A1 in MS DISCOVERY, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3IbcQAwQC_0). Located in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada; a diverse college town with plenty to do and like in all of Canada, universal healthcare. If interested, please submit your curriculum vitae/resume and a 1-page summary of how you will contribute to the science in our lab and your ability to collaborate with a team.

Nature of Work:

  • Works independently to design, conduct and support discovery and validation of research in MS and other neurological diseases in a basic science laboratory with a focus on neuroimmunology, neuroscience, immunology, molecular biology, bioinformatics and biostatistics
  • Reports to the SK MS Research Chair regularlyWorks with the SK MS Research Chair to plan and meet research project requirements and deadlines
  • Helps prepare comprehensive documented observations, analyses and interpretations of results, including written technical reports, summaries, protocols and quantitative analyses
  • Assists in publishing activities, findings and conclusions in recognized scientific publications
  • Documents research leading to patent disclosure or technical and/or scientific advancement
  • Acts as a resource, trains and monitors the progress of trainees at all levels (undergraduate/ medical students, MSc and PhD candidates, post-doctoral fellows, and research technicians)
  • Assists in planning, writing, and editing grants and scientific manuscripts
  • Assists in preparing and submitting scientific manuscripts to journals, including formal correspondence with editors and addressing revisions, as necessary

Typical Duties or Accountabilities:

  • Perform, troubleshoot, and optimize in vitro experiments using cell lines of various origins including neuroblastoma, primary neurons derived from mammals and human IPSCs
  • Maintains a meticulous laboratory notebook with detailed documentation of experiments
  • Transfection of cell lines
  • Transduction of primary neurons and cells with AAVs.
  • In vivo experiments using models of MS and naïve controls in mice and rats such as experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis, Theiler’s Virus induced demyelination, intracranial injections, and oral administration and injections of drugs
  • Perform, troubleshoot, and optimize in situ experiments using human tissue samples
  • Improve upon and/or develop new methods and protocols to address key experimental questions
  • Document, compile, and analyze experimental data
  • Presentations at lab meetings
  • Assists collaboratively with the SK MS Clinical Research Chair to prepare publications and abstracts at international and national scientific meetings
  • Attend scientific meetings at the discretion of the SK MS Clinical Research Chair
  • Train and educate trainees
  • Establish and maintain training SOPs for trainees and staff at all levels.
  • Meet with the SK MS Clinical Research Chair at regular intervals
  • Other duties, tasks and assignments as required by the SK MS Clinical Research Chair

Education: Graduate degree required (PhD preferred, MSc acceptable) in molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, immunology, neuroscience or a related field with 3-5 years of work experience.

Licenses: N/A

Experience:

  • -Experience in research using one or more of the following is necessary:
    • Mouse models, including perfusion, dissection of central nervous system and peripheral tissues, blood collection, oral and injectable administration of drugs, intracranial injections and sample processing for downstream analyses
    • Cell culture work, experience in generating and working with cell lines, primary cell lines derived from mice and human IPSCs, transfection of cell lines and transduction of primary neurons and cells with AAVs.
    • Imaging techniques, including fluorescence and brightfield microscopy; live-cell imaging
    • Protein analyses, including recombinant protein expression/purification, western blot
    • PCR and qPCR
    • Molecular cloning
    • DNA/RNA sequencing and library preparation
    • Human tissue analyses, including immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence
    • Broad computer experience using advanced scientific and statistical software
    • Bioinformatics
  • Knowledge of data analysis and interpretation using statistical software is required
  • Experience in one-on-one mentoring of junior trainees, including graduate and undergraduate students, is required
  • Demonstrated grant writing and publication record
  • Experience working and collaborating in diverse and inclusive settings is required

Skills:

  • Immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence and immunocytochemistry
  • Fluorescent and brightfield microscopy
  • Computer skills including bioinformatics, advanced scientific and statistical software
  • Intracranial injection, perfusion, and blood sampling of small animals such as mice and rats
  • Oral administration and injections of drugs into mice and rats
  • Tissue dissection, embedding, and sectioning (fresh frozen, fixed frozen, paraffin)
  • Molecular techniques including but not limited to Western blotting, PCR, RT-PCR, qPCR, in situ hybridization, –RNA/DNA extraction from cell lines and tissues, recombinant protein expression and purification
  • Extraction of immune cells from lymphoid organs
  • Isolating primary neurons from mice and rats, cell culture and human IPSC cultures
  • Cell culture: primary neurons, cell lines, transfection and transduction.
  • FACS analyses and cell sorting
  • Knowledge and use of Photoshop and related platforms
  • Strong interpersonal skills, demonstrated leadership abilities, and attention to detail
  • Excellent time management and organizational capabilities
  • Ability to work independently
  • Effective oral and written communication skills

Inquiries regarding this position can be directed to Catherine Hutchinson at c.hutchinson@usask.ca.

Department: Medicine (Department)
Status: Term 1 year
Employment Group: Research Positions – Non-union
Full Time Equivalent (FTE): 1.0
Salary: The salary range, based on 1.0 FTE, is $65,975.00 – 102,024.00 per annum. The starting salary will be commensurate with education and experience.
Salary Phase/Band: Salary Band 8
Posted Date: 4/2/2025
Closing Date: 5/13/2025
Number of Openings: 1
Work Location: On Campus

The University is committed to employment equity, diversity, and inclusion, and are proud to support career opportunities for Indigenous peoples to reflect the community we serve. We are dedicated to recruiting individuals who will enrich our work and learning environments. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, in accordance with Canadian immigration requirements, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority. We are committed to providing accommodations to those with a disability or medical necessity. If you require an accommodation to participate in the recruitment process, please notify us and we will work together on the accommodation request. We continue to grow our partnerships with Indigenous communities across the province, nationally, and internationally and value the unique perspective that Indigenous employees provide to strengthen these relationships. Verification of Indigenous Membership/Citizenship at the University of Saskatchewan is led and determined by the deybwewin | taapwaywin | tapwewin: Indigenous Truth policy and Standing Committee in accordance with the processes developed to enact the policy. Successful candidates that assert Indigenous membership/citizenship will be asked to complete the verification process of Indigenous membership/citizenship with documentation. The University of Saskatchewan’s main campus is situated on Treaty 6 Territory and the Homeland of the Métis. We pay our respects to the First Nations and Métis ancestors of this place and reaffirm our relationship with one another. Together, we are uplifting Indigenization to a place of prominence at the University of Saskatchewan.

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