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

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

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.

Research from University of Ottawa: deciphering what serotonin is saying inside our brains

Richard Naud - image credit University of Ottawa

Richard Naud

The international research team’s ambitious work has implications across multiple fields and sheds compelling new light on the extraordinarily complex serotonin system.

In our day-to-day lives, we’re constantly making a slew of decisions from immediate matters to prospects on the far horizon. But the evolutionary nuts-and-bolts of how our brains weigh these numerous daily decisions and what role is played by the neurotransmitter serotonin has been shrouded in mystery.

Now, a new study led by an interdisciplinary uOttawa Faculty of Medicine team delivers fascinating findings on this big topic and potentially unravels a hidden aspect of what our nervous system’s complex serotonin system is really doing inside the enigmatic organ in our skulls.

Continue reading

University of Ottawa-led research team forges compelling new insights into dynamics of the brain’s serotonin system

Jean-Claude Béique

Dr. Jean-Claude Béïque (Photo credit: University of Ottawa)

Source of text: David McFadden, Communications Advisor & Research Writer, University of Ottawa

The study’s findings could potentially help develop targeted therapeutics for mood disorders like major depressive disorder.

Our lives are filled with binary decisions – choices between one of two alternatives. But what’s really happening inside our brains when we engage in this kind of decision making?

uOttawa Faculty of Medicine-led study published in Nature Neuroscience sheds new light on these big questions, illuminating a general principle of neural processing in a mysterious region of the midbrain that is the very origin of our central serotonin (5-HT) system, a key part of the nervous system involved in a remarkable range of cognitive and behavioral functions.

Continue reading

MSc/PhD Position at the Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, Canada

Dr. Deepak Kaushik, Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN, St. John’s, Canada), is currently recruiting MSc/PhD fellows to join a CIHR-funded research project focused on exploring the immunometabolic pathways of macrophages and microglia in multiple sclerosis (MS).

The Kaushik Lab is committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable research environment that values diversity in all its forms. To learn more about ongoing research and recent publications, please visit: https://kaushiklab.com.

Why MUN? The Faculty of Medicine at MUN features state-of-the-art medical laboratories equipped with high-resolution confocal imaging, a Seahorse analyzer for metabolic profiling, flow sorters and cytometers, an electron microscopy suite with advanced tissue processing tools, and a 10X genomics platform for single-cell and bulk RNA sequencing. The place also offers numerous collaborative opportunities. More info: https://www.mun.ca/medicine/administrative-departments/medical-laboratories/

Ideal Candidate- The ideal candidate will have completed a master’s degree (for PhD) or Bachelor’s Hons (for MSc), possess foundational laboratory experience in immunology and/or neuroscience. A strong passion for research is essential. Previous research contributions, such as co-authorship on publications, will be considered an asset. Excellent written and verbal communication skills are required. Applicants must be Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or possess the necessary permits to undertake doctoral studies in Canada.

Application Requirements- Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, a CV along with the transcripts and a personal statement outlining their research experience, expectations from the training and their short- and long-term goals. Fellowship will be commensurate with CIHR guidelines. If interested, send in your applications to dkaushik@mun.ca

Start date: September 2025

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Postdoctoral Research Position – Neuroimmunology & High-Throughput Immunometabolic Profiling in MS – Memorial University

Dr. Deepak Kaushik, Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN, St. John’s, Canada), is currently recruiting a motivated postdoctoral fellow to join a CIHR-funded research project focused on exploring the immunometabolic pathways of macrophages and microglia in multiple sclerosis (MS).

The Kaushik Lab is committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable research environment that values diversity in all its forms. To learn more about ongoing research and recent publications, please visit: https://kaushiklab.com.

Why MUN? The Faculty of Medicine at MUN features state-of-the-art medical laboratories equipped with high-resolution confocal imaging, a Seahorse analyzer for metabolic profiling, flow sorters and cytometers, an electron microscopy suite with advanced tissue processing tools, and a 10X genomics platform for single-cell and bulk RNA sequencing. The place also offers numerous collaborative opportunities. More info: https://www.mun.ca/medicine/administrative-departments/medical-laboratories/

About St. John’s- St. John’s, the capital of Newfoundland and Labrador, is among the oldest cities in the Americas. It is renowned for its deep historical roots, distinctive charm, thriving arts and culture, and a harmonious blend of urban sophistication and small-town warmth. A truly welcoming city for all!

Ideal candidate– The ideal candidate should have expertise in working with animal disease models, single-cell and spatial RNA sequencing technology, and a solid understanding of the CNS immune landscape. Additionally, applicants should have at least one first-author and one co-author publication from their PhD and must exhibit strong oral and written communication skills. The candidate should be Canadian citizen or a PR or have the required study permits to pursue the degree.

Application Requirements– Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, a CV along with the transcripts, a research proposal (1-2 pages; does not need to reflect the exact project they will work on), and a personal statement outlining their research experience, expectations from the training and their short- and long-term goals. The salary will range from $55,000 to $60,000, with additional benefits. Final salaries will be commensurate with the candidate’s prior experience, expertise, and achievements. If interested, send in your complete application to dkaushik@mun.ca.  

Start date: Available immediately/flexible

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Congratulations to the winners of the 2024 CAN- CIHR-INMHA Brain Star Awards!

The Canadian Association for Neuroscience (CAN) and the Canadian Institutes of Health’s Institute of Neurosciences, Mental Health and Addiction (CIHR-INMHA) are proud to announce the winners of the 2024 Brain Star Awards.

The CIHR-INMHA Brain Star awards, administered by the Canadian Association for Neuroscience, are awarded to students and trainees who have published high impact discoveries in all fields and disciplines covered by CIHR’s Institute of Neurosciences, Mental Health and Addiction in the 2024 calendar year.

The top 3 Brain Star Award winners of the year have been invited to make a presentation at the CAN meeting in May.

Postdoc position available in the laboratory of Dr. Louis-Eric Trudeau at the University of Montreal to work on the regulation of dopamine release

The laboratory of Dr. Louis-Eric Trudeau at the University of Montreal presently has an opening for a postdoctoral fellow to work on projects that relate to the mechanisms of neurotransmitter release by dopamine neurons and/or on how inflammatory signals influence the functioning of these neurons.

The ideal applicant should have successfully completed a Ph.D. in the field of neuroscience (or is close to completing it) and have demonstrated productivity during the Ph.D. The University of Montreal is one of the top research universities in Canada and a great environment to perform biomedical research. Montreal is great place to come to work and live.

For more information, please contact Dr. Trudeau at the following email address:

louis-eric.trudeau@umontreal.ca

Louis-Eric Trudeau, Ph.D.
Professor
Department of pharmacology and physiology
Université de Montréal
louis-eric.trudeau@umontreal.ca


Posting end date 2025/09/01

Assistant Professor University of Saskatchewan-Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology

Assistant Professor
Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology
Applications are invited from qualified individuals for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in the Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology. We are searching for individuals with exceptional promise to develop a vibrant, externally funded research program in any area of Cell Metabolism. While we encourage applications from candidates studying any aspect of cell metabolism that would complement and expand upon our existing departmental strengths, we are particularly interested in candidates who explore immunometabolism, metabolic rewiring in healthy and diseased states, metabolites as signaling molecules, and metabolism of the gut microbiome. The successful candidate will also show a strong commitment to undergraduate and graduate teaching.

The department has several areas of research strength encompassing immunology, bacteriology, virology, biochemistry of cancer, protein science, and biology of metals. Further collaborative opportunities in cancer genomics, cancer biology, neuroscience, cell physiology, and with clinicians are available in the College of Medicine and Saskatchewan Cancer Agency. Specific research areas of BMI faculty can be viewed here: https://medicine.usask.ca/bmi/. The department benefits from having the Canadian Light Source situated on our campus, and the department has strong affiliations with the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO) and the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency. In addition, the College of Medicine Core Mass Spectrometry Facility enables research in proteomics, small molecules, and targeted metabolomics and a Protein Characterization and Crystallization Facility (PCCF) supports a wide range of biophysical methods to study protein interactions as well as protein X-ray crystallography.

The University of Saskatchewan’s main campus is situated on Treaty 6 Territory and the Homeland of the Métis. The University of Saskatchewan is located in Saskatoon, SK, a city with a diverse and thriving economic base, a vibrant arts community and a full range of leisure opportunities. The University has a reputation for excellence in teaching, research and scholarly activities and offers a full range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs to a student population of over 25,000.

Qualifications
Applicants must have a PhD degree and post-doctoral experience in a biomedical discipline and a demonstrated ability to conduct original, innovative research. The ideal candidate will have excellent interpersonal and communication skills and show an interest in fostering collaborations with faculty members in the department and elsewhere on campus.

The starting salary bands for the 2025-2026 academic year are as follows:
Assistant Professor: $110,489 to $131,909; Associate Professor: $131,909 to $153,329; and Professor $153,329 to $178,319 with a higher starting salary in rare and exceptional circumstances pursuant to Article 18.2.6.12 of the 2023-2027 USFA Collective Agreement.

This position includes a comprehensive benefits package which includes a dental, health and extended vision care plan; pension plan, life insurance (compulsory and voluntary), academic long-term disability, sick leave, travel insurance, death benefits, an employee assistance program, a professional expense allowance, and a flexible health and wellness spending program.

Interested candidates must submit via email a cover letter that includes a brief statement of research interests, a detailed curriculum vitae, a 5-year research plan (max. 3 pages), a teaching statement including teaching areas of interest (1 page), an equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) statement (1 page or less), and contact information for three references. In the EDI statement, reflect on your lived experiences, attitudes, beliefs, and practices then discuss how you will consider EDI in your role as a colleague, teacher, researcher, and in building your research team. For more information related to equity, diversity and inclusion please see our webpage: https://medicine.usask.ca/about-us/edi.php.

Please send your complete application package to:

Dr. Linda Chelico
Department Head and Chair of the Search Committee
Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Immunology
107 Wiggins Road, Rm GA20.12
Saskatoon, SK Canada S7N 5E5
Telephone: (306) 966-4375
Email: bmiadmin@usask.ca

Due to federal immigration requirements, we also ask candidates to indicate whether they are Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or are otherwise already authorized to work at this position for the duration of the appointment, with an explanation if this last category is indicated. Candidates may be asked to provide proof of citizenship, residency or work eligibility.

Review of applications will begin in May of 2025; however, applications will be accepted and evaluated until the position is filled. The anticipated start date is January 1, 2026.

The University is committed to employment equity, diversity, and inclusion, and we 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.


Contact information

Dr. Linda Chelico
Department Head and Chair of the Search Committee
Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Immunology
107 Wiggins Road, Rm GA20.12
Saskatoon, SK Canada S7N 5E5
Telephone: (306) 966-4375
Email: bmiadmin@usask.ca

PhD students- The Guo lab- Cilia in the Brain – University of Calgary

The Guo Lab at the Hotchkiss Brain Institute and Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary is seeking candidates for two PhD student positions. The long-term goal of the Guo lab is to define fundamental principles governing the functional wiring of the brain. Toward this goal, we are focused on primary cilia, signaling antennae of almost all cells in the brain. Long considered as evolutionary remnants of little significance, primary cilia in the past decade have sparked enormous interest, fueled by the discoveries that mutations in 150+ ciliary genes lead to 30+ human disorders collectively termed “ciliopathies”. The brain is particularly vulnerable to ciliary dysfunction as reflected by the prominent brain anomalies and neurological deficits associated with neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders found in ciliopathy patients. Nevertheless, due to the lack of mechanistic insights, how primary cilia can exert such a profound impact on the brain remains a long-standing mystery.

How do primary cilia, only a few um long protrusions from the cell soma, exert such a profound impact on the brain? The Guo lab is incorporating recent technical advances including single cell/nucleus RNAseq and ATACseq, human iPSCs, Serial Block face EM, mouse genetics, biochemistry, cell signaling control, in vivo 2-photon live imaging, and translational pharmacology to peel back the layers of this mystery from gene→cell→circuit→behavior→therapeutics (Guo et al., Developmental Cell 2017; Guo et al., Developmental Cell 2019; Wang et al., Nature Neuroscience 2024). The Guo lab has established a wide range of national and international collaborations. PhD students in the Guo lab have ample opportunities to learn cutting-edge technologies in molecular/cellular/system neuroscience and be co-supervised by Dr. Jeff Biernaskie (scRNAseq/ATACseq, U of C) and Dr. Grant Gordon (in vivo 2-photon imaging, U of C), Dr. Tomas Nowakowski (viral genomic technology to study the human brain, UCSF).

Project summary and responsibilities

  • Define the role of primary cilia in glial cells in development and disease, using both mouse models and human cells.
  • Analyze data from molecular, genetic, imaging, and behavioral experiments.
  • Collaborate with lab members and interdisciplinary teams at U of Calgary and internationally.

Qualifications:

  • MSc in neuroscience or a related field is highly desirable but not required.
  • Motivated, self-driven, and curious. Willing to learn many different techniques and analytical skills.
  • Excellent communication skills and interpersonal skills.
  • (highly desired but not necessary) Experience with molecular biology, scRNAseq/ATACseq, in vivo 2-photon live imaging, and mouse behavior
  • Experience with coding is an asset (e.g., R, Python, MATLAB).
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.

Individuals interested in this opportunity should submit the following components in a single PDF document to Dr. Jiami Guo (Jiami.guo@ucalgary.ca).

  • Letter of interest (research interests, experience, and goals (<2 pages)
  • Curriculum vitae
  • Recent publications (links)
  • Names and contact information of two or three referees (who will only be contacted if a candidate is shortlisted)

The position is located in Calgary, Alberta. Applications will be accepted until suitable candidates are identified.
Contact information Dr. Jiami Guo
jiami.guo@ucalgary.ca