Author: Julie

Doctoral student position available in the Sephton laboratory at Université Laval: Investigating lipid metabolism in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

Posted on | by Julie

Join our innovative research team at the CERVO Brain Research Centre of Université Laval in Québec City, Canada. The Sephton lab is dedicated to uncovering the mechanisms that cause the fatal motor neuron disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and developing targeted therapies based on these discoveries. The Sephton lab is pleased to announce a funded postdoctoral fellowship that will investigate the cause and impact of metabolic dysregulation in ALS and how it impacts disease progression.

Project overview:

An early clinical feature of ALS is an imbalance in energy homeostasis, which leads to an overall energy deficit. Due to the high energy demands and impaired glucose metabolism that occurs in ALS, there is a metabolic switch from glucose to lipids for energy production in the central nervous system. The successful candidate will lead a project investigating the cause and impact of this metabolic switch in the brain and spinal cord using animal models and cell-culture models of ALS/FTD. Utilizing methods like immunohistochemistry, confocal microscopy, neuron-glia co-cultures, western blotting and lipid and protein mass-spectrometry, the project aims to elucidate how the central nervous system manages lipids as an energy source and whether it is impaired in familial models of ALS, contributing further to the pathogenesis of disease.

Requirements:

  • MSc in Neuroscience or a related field with evidence of expertise and productivity
  • Proficiency in one or more of the following: primary cell-culture, immunohistochemistry, western blotting, confocal microscopy, animal handling and data analysis.
  • Independence in research, creative problem-solving skills, and a collaborative mindset.
  • Strong communication skills in English and the ability to work effectively within a team.

Lab Environment:

The Sephton lab cultivates an atmosphere that encourages collaboration and intellectual stimulation, placing a high value on creativity, scientific rigor, and innovative thinking. We create abundant avenues for professional development and promote independence in research endeavors. We are also strongly committed to supporting diversity, equity and inclusion. Our support extends to diverse career paths, encompassing both academia and industry. Situated in Québec City, renowned for its safety, affordability, and family-friendly surroundings, our lab provides an ideal setting for research and personal growth.

Funding:

The project is funded by a 2-year grant from ALS Canada and Brain Canada and a 5-year grant the Canadian Institute of Health Research (CIHR). Additionally, candidates can apply for several other funding opportunities for international students available through the Québec and Canadian funding systems. The lab is supported by Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), Brain Canada, Canadian Foundation for Innovation (CFI).

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter describing research interests, relevant experience and university transcripts, along with a curriculum vitae by May 1st, 2024 to Dr. Sephton here:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1T4sSrgXMxrFbYByO2drinoqApSksh2VtUAacSyoBw14/viewform?edit_requested=true

Download a PDF version of this advertisement here:

PhD position-Sephton lab-Final

Postdoctoral Fellowship available in the Sephton laboratory at Université Laval: Investigating lipid metabolism in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

Posted on | by Julie

Join our innovative research team at the CERVO Brain Research Centre of Université Laval in Québec City, Canada. The Sephton lab is dedicated to uncovering the mechanisms that cause the fatal motor neuron disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and developing targeted therapies based on these discoveries. The Sephton lab is pleased to announce a funded postdoctoral fellowship that will investigate the cause and impact of metabolic dysregulation in ALS and how it impacts disease progression.

Project overview:

An early clinical feature of ALS is an imbalance in energy homeostasis, which leads to an overall energy deficit. Due to the high energy demands and impaired glucose metabolism that occurs in ALS, there is a metabolic switch from glucose to lipids for energy production in the central nervous system. The successful candidate will lead a project investigating the cause and impact of this metabolic switch in the brain and spinal cord using animal models and cell-culture models of ALS/FTD. Utilizing methods like immunohistochemistry, confocal microscopy, neuron-glia co-cultures, western blotting and lipid and protein mass-spectrometry, the project aims to elucidate how the central nervous system manages lipids as an energy source and whether it is impaired in familial models of ALS, contributing further to the pathogenesis of disease.

Requirements:

  • D. in Neuroscience, metabolism or a related field with evidence of expertise and productivity
  • Proficiency in one or more of the following: immunohistochemistry, western blotting, confocal microscopy, animal handling, animal surgery, primary cell-culture and data analysis.
  • Independence in research, creative problem-solving skills, and a collaborative mindset.
  • Strong communication skills in English and the ability to work effectively within a team.

Lab Environment:

The Sephton lab cultivates an atmosphere that encourages collaboration and intellectual stimulation, placing a high value on creativity, scientific rigor, and innovative thinking. We create abundant avenues for professional development and promote independence in research endeavors. We are also strongly committed to supporting diversity, equity and inclusion. Our support extends to diverse career paths, encompassing both academia and industry. Situated in Québec City, renowned for its safety, affordability, and family-friendly surroundings, our lab provides an ideal setting for research and personal growth.

Funding:

The project is funded by a 5-year grant from the Canadian Institute of Health Research (CIHR). Additionally, candidates can apply for several other funding opportunities for international post-docs available through the Québec and Canadian funding systems. The lab is supported by Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), Brain Canada, Canadian Foundation for Innovation (CFI) and ALS Canada.

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter describing research interests and relevant experience, along with a curriculum vitae by May 1st, 2024 to Dr. Sephton here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1-Z4HwJDAQDPSXwXIkkMbM8MGHM4sdQaHMiIyrlKVPPs/viewform?edit_requested=true

Download this advertisement as a PDF document here:

PDF positin-Sephton lab-Final

Scientist / Senior Scientist – Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto

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SCIENTIST/SENIOR SCIENTIST

Research Institute

The Hospital for Sick Children

University of Toronto

The Research Institute at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) is accepting applications for a Scientist/Senior Scientist focused on the neuroscience of child and youth mental health. The position is permanent full-time and will include an accompanying appointment in a relevant department at The University of Toronto (UofT), including but not limited to Psychology, Psychiatry, or Medical Biophysics. The SickKids Research Institute is Canada’s largest, hospital-based child health research institute. Our commitment is to improve the health of children, here in Canada and in the global community.

Applicants must have a Ph.D. in a relevant discipline, as well as significant research experience (i.e., at least 3 years postdoctoral) and a record of outstanding scientific accomplishment and innovation in neuroimaging science related to child and youth mental health. Applicants are expected to demonstrate evidence of: successful research funding (peer-reviewed grants, fellowships, etc.), publications in leading journals, presentations at significant conferences, and increasing leadership experience in a research team. Applicants should have a strong track record of productivity and innovation in research focused on using neuro-imaging to understand child and youth mental health, as well as an established record of collaboration and interdisciplinary research.

The successful candidate will engage in an original, competitive, and independently funded research program of international caliber that will use neuroimaging to understand the bio-psychological underpinnings of clinical symptoms, neuropsychological function, and behaviour across children and youth with a variety of mental health challenges. The successful candidate will be appointed as a Scientist/Senior Scientist in the SickKids Research Institute and expected to qualify for an academic cross-appointment in an appropriate department at the University of Toronto enabling: (a) direct supervision of students, postdoctoral fellows, and research associates; and (b) work with students/post-docs to prepare scientific manuscripts, grant applications, and/or drafts of patent applications. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. A competitive benefits package is being offered along with support for relocation expenses. Exceptional, appropriately qualified candidates may be nominated for a Canada Research Chair. For further information see: http://www.chairs-chaires.gc.ca/home-accueil-eng.aspx Wherein a practicing MD, the successful candidate will have obtained an appropriate Certificate of Registration from the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (license to practice), and appropriate VISA, if applicable.

The successful applicant’s research program will be housed at the SickKids Research Institute in the state-of-the-art Peter Gilgan Centre for Research & Learning (686 Bay Street, Toronto, Canada), located in the Discovery District in the heart of downtown Toronto. SickKids is fully affiliated with the UofT – Canada’s largest and top-ranked university, and our researchers benefit from the extensive research facilities at the UofT and other affiliated institutions. The position offers a unique environment for medical science discoveries, with nine teaching and research hospitals in close proximity. The position offers the opportunity to conduct research, teach, and live in one of the most vibrant, safe and diverse cities of the world.

The Hospital for Sick Children recognizes that scholars have varying career paths and that career interruptions due to personal circumstances can be part of an excellent academic record. Candidates are encouraged to explain any personal circumstances to allow for a fair assessment of their application.

Our Commitment to Diversity

SickKids is strongly committed to diversity within its community and especially welcomes applications from racialized persons / persons of colour, women, Indigenous / Aboriginal People of North America, persons with disabilities, 2SLGBTQIA+ persons, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas. If requested, SickKids is proud to make available accommodations to support applicants with disabilities during the interview and assessment process. Informed by the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), the Ontario Human Rights Code, and our Access and Accommodation Policy, we will accommodate the needs of applicants. Please email faculty.office@sickkids.ca of your accessibility needs during the recruitment process. Information received relating to accommodation will be addressed confidentially.

Application Process Interested applicants should email their application (curriculum vitae, description of past research, research plan [3-5 pages], Equity Diversity and Inclusion Statement, three reference letters and copies of three representative publications) preferably in a single PDF file, to Dr. Donald Mabbott, Program Head Neurosciences & Mental Health Research Program at nmh.search@sickkids.ca by the close of the search on April 30, 2024. The search committee will interview applicants beginning in May of 2024 until the position is filled, with a potential start date in the next academic calendar year (2024/2025).

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

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

Contact information nmh.search@sickkids.ca

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Postdoc position: Regeneration of locomotor circuits in salamanders

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PROJECT: Salamanders can swim underwater and walk on ground. Their spinal cord regenerates after a full transection and the animal recovers voluntary locomotion after a few weeks. How this occurs is largely unknown. Genetic dissection of salamander neural circuits is now feasible with methods for manipulation, elimination, and visualization of genetically-defined cells. Such approaches can be combined with patch-clamp electrophysiology, calcium imaging, optogenetics, tracing and movement analysis (Ryczko et al. 2020 Trends in Neurosciences). The candidate will use genetic tools, calcium imaging, electrophysiology and movement analysis based on deep learning and neuroanatomy to study salamander locomotor circuits. The work will be carried out in collaboration with a team of modelers and roboticists (Pr. Ijspeert, EPFL, Switzerland) and experts in genomics (Pr. Simon, Karolinska Institute, Sweden).

REQUIREMENTS: The candidate should have completed a PhD in neuroscience or a related field. The ideal candidate would have experience in electrophysiology (patch-clamp), calcium imaging, optogenetics, virus injections, deep learning-based movement analysis, matlab scripting, and a keen interest in motor control.

HOST LABORATORY: The lab of Pr. Ryczko (Sherbrooke, QC, Canada) has expertise in the neural control of locomotion and publishes in excellent journals (PNAS, Science Robotics, Journal of Neuroscience, Trends in Neuroscience). The lab receives grant support by the CIHR, NSERC, FRQS, CFI. This project is funded by a synergy grant of the ERC. We are equipped for patch-clamp recordings, confocal and two photon calcium imaging, optogenetics, viral injections, deep learning-based movement analysis, and microscopy (confocal, light-sheet, two-photon, STED).

START: the position is available immediately.

APPLY: Candidates should send a letter of interest explaining how they would fit, a CV, a complete record of their academic results and an international scale to interpret these, and three references at: dimitri.ryczko@gmail.com. Please specify where you have found the job post.

Contact:

dimitri.ryczko@gmail.com

PhD position: Regeneration of locomotor circuits in salamanders

Posted on | by Julie

PROJECT: Salamanders can swim underwater and walk on ground. Their spinal cord regenerates after a full transection and the animal recovers voluntary locomotion after a few weeks. How this occurs is largely unknown. Genetic dissection of salamander neural circuits is now feasible with methods for manipulation, elimination, and visualization of genetically-defined cells. Such approaches can be combined with patch-clamp electrophysiology, calcium imaging, optogenetics, tracing and movement analysis (Ryczko et al. 2020 Trends in Neurosciences). The candidate will use genetic tools, calcium imaging, electrophysiology and movement analysis based on deep learning and neuroanatomy to study salamander locomotor circuits. The work will be carried out in collaboration with a team of modelers and roboticists (Pr. Ijspeert, EPFL, Switzerland) and experts in genomics (Pr. Simon, Karolinska Institute, Sweden).

REQUIREMENTS: The candidate should have completed a MSc in neuroscience or a related field. The ideal candidate would have experience in electrophysiology (patch-clamp), calcium imaging, optogenetics, virus injections, deep learning-based movement analysis, matlab scripting, and a keen interest in motor control.

HOST LABORATORY: The lab of Pr. Ryczko (Sherbrooke, QC, Canada) has expertise in the neural control of locomotion and publishes in excellent journals (PNAS, Journal of Neuroscience, Trends in Neuroscience). The lab receives grant support by the CIHR, NSERC, FRQS, CFI. This project is funded by a synergy grant of the ERC. We are equipped for patch-clamp recordings, confocal and two photon calcium imaging, optogenetics, viral injections, deep learning-based movement analysis, and microscopy (confocal, light-sheet, two-photon, STED).

START: the student could satrt either in May 2024 or September 2024.

APPLY: Candidates should send a letter of interest explaining how they would fit, a CV, a complete record of their academic results and an international scale to interpret these, and three references at: dimitri.ryczko@gmail.com. Please specify where you have found the job post.

Contact :

dimitri.ryczko@gmail.com

PhD position: Brainstem control of locomotion in mice

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PROJECT: The locomotor role of dopaminergic cells is classically attributed to their ascending projections to the basal ganglia that project to brainstem locomotor circuits that controls locomotion. However, descending dopaminergic projections to brainstem locomotor circuits were uncovered (Ryczko et al. PNAS 2013, PNAS 2016, J Neurosci 2017, J Neurosci 2020). In lamprey, these descending projections increase locomotor activity. In mammals, their role remains to be determined.

The student will address this issue in mice using in vivo optogenetics and chemogenetics, movement analysis, patch-clamp electrophysiology or calcium imaging in brain slices, viral injections or neuroanatomy. The new knowledge will provide a better understanding of the relation between dopaminergic and locomotor neurons and help identify new clinical strategies to improve locomotor function in Parkinson’s disease.

REQUIREMENTS: The candidate should have completed a MSc in neuroscience or a close field. The ideal candidate would have experience in patch-clamp electrophysiology, optogenetics or calcium imaging in slices, in vivo optogenetics or chemogenetics, virus injections, matlab scripting, and a keen interest in motor control.

HOST LABORATORY: Pr. Ryczko has expertise in the neural control of locomotion and published his research in excellent journals (PNAS, Science, Science Robotics, Journal of Neuroscience…). The lab receives grant support by the CIHR, NSERC, FRQS, CFI and ERC. We are equipped for optogenetics, viral injections, patch-clamp recordings, confocal and two photon calcium imaging, high-resolution movement analysis based on deep learning, and microscopy (confocal, light-sheet, two-photon, STED).

START: The student could start either in May 2024 or September 2024.

APPLY: Candidates should send a letter of interest, a CV, a complete record of their academic results and three references at: dimitri.ryczko@gmail.com. Please specify where you found the job post.

Contact information : dimitri.ryczko@gmail.com

Urgent appeal to recapitalize the Canada Brain Research Fund

Posted on | by Julie

We invite you to read a letter calling for urgent recapitalization of the Canada Brain Research Fund we recently sent to

The Honourable Ya’ara Saks, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions of Canada
The Honourable Mark Holland, Minister of Health of Canada
The Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Minister of Finances of Canada
The Right Honourable Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

Read the letter here: CAN-Brain-Canada-support-letter-2024

M.Sc. & Ph.D. Positions at McGill University in Computational Analysis of Behavior and Brain dynamics with Computer Vision/Machine Learning

Posted on | by Julie

Positions Overview:

The Mohajerani lab (https://douglas.research.mcgill.ca/majid-mohajerani/) at McGill University is seeking prospective M.Sc. or Ph.D. to join our lab for Winter 2025 semester. The focus of student’s project will be on analysis of animal behaviour and brain activity using deep learning tools. To be qualified for this position, ideal candidates must have a solid background in computer vision and be familiar with neuroscience. As part of this role, students also must complete coursework for neuroscience program at McGill (www.mcgill.ca/ipn/), a university known for its world-class research and academic excellence, providing them an intellectually stimulating and inspiring environment for their career growth. We are searching for dedicated researchers to join our lab, so if you like tackling challenges, you are welcome to apply! Lastly, the successful candidate must have a collaborative spirit, as this role involves cooperation with multiple institutions and investigators.

Deadline: March 31st, 2024

Key qualifications:

  • Academic Background: M.Sc. or B.Sc. in computer science, computer engineering, neuroscience, or related fields. Solid foundation in machine learning , and knowledge of experimental neuroscience (e.g., optical imaging/ontogenetic, electrophysiology, behavioural assessment) will be a bonus.
  • Technical Knowledge: Familiarity with deep learning libraries (TensorFlow, PyTorch), and image processing in Python.
  • Soft Skills: Individuals who are driven by curiosity, practical problem-solvers, and team players.
  • Passionate About Neuroscience: A genuine interest in computational, and/or behavioural neuroscience and a commitment to contributing to the field.

What we offer:

  • A Focus on Behavioural Neuroscience: Dive deep into research that aims to unravel the complexities of behaviour and brain dynamics through AI. Our projects span various aspects of the field, offering a rich environment for academic and personal growth.
  • Collaborative Environment: Work alongside leading scientists in a supportive, interdisciplinary team where your ideas and contributions are valued.
  • Resources: Access to cutting-edge technology and resources to facilitate your research, experimentation, and learning.
  • Real-World Impact: Engage in projects that aim to translate scientific discoveries into practical applications, making a tangible difference in the field and beyond.
  • Academic Excellence: As part of McGill University, you’ll be immersed in an environment known for its high standards of research and education.

How to Apply:

If you’re passionate about machine learning and want to work in a dynamic and exciting environment, please apply with your resume and a cover letter describing your relevant experience and why you’re the right fit for this role. We strive to ensure that our team is diverse, equitable, and inclusive. All qualified applicants, including women and members of visible minority groups, are welcome to apply. If you meet all the requirements, please fill out the following form:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1TK_TfBSzkqNcR_DYt82HGb0MImX_1mthtegbxbkJtbI/edit

Post-doctoral position in comparative study of reward learning, stress and psychedelics- McGill University

Posted on | by Julie

Do you want to know what mice think about on mushrooms? Are you interested in making inferences in mice and humans?

The Behavioural Neurogenomics Lab (https://www.bagotlab.org) at McGill University is looking for a highly motivated computational neuroscience postdoc to lead a newly funded collaboration examining the neural bases of effects of stress and psychedelics on reward processing in mice and humans. This is a fully funded position intersecting computational modeling, neural circuit interrogation and robust behavioural paradigms. Based in Montreal, the candidate will work closely with the Noise Lab at Université de Montreal (https://ebitzlab.com/) and the Mayo Lab (https://profiles.ucalgary.ca/leah-mayo) at University of Calgary to develop new approaches for the comparative study of the neural processing of reward.

The candidate must have a PhD in computational neuroscience, psychology, cognitive science or a quantitative discipline as well as fluency in Matlab or Python and experience in statistical data analysis and an interest in translational or comparative research. Ideally, the candidate would have some background in cognitive and/or reinforcement learning models, generalized linear models, hidden Markov models or probabilistic graphical models.

Anticipated start date April 1, 2024 for an initial term of 1 year with the possibility of renewal.

Come join an exciting, diverse team in a unique city with a supportive, and highly collaborative environment.

To apply, please send a PDF of your CV to rosemary.bagot@mcgill.ca with a list of three potential references to contact. In your email, please describe 1) why you are interested in the position and 2) how your prior experience relates to this research opportunity.

Posting end date: 2024-03-30