Category: Graduate Student Opportunities

Graduate Student position at the Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, University of Saskatchewan.

Posted on | by Julie

Are you passionate about understanding the mechanisms of neurological diseases? The Myelin in Neurotoxicity and Neurodegenerative Diseases Lab (MynndLab) at the Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences (DVBMS), University of Saskatchewan, is recruiting motivated graduate trainees (MSc or PhD).

About MynndLab: Our research focuses on unraveling the mechanisms behind myelin sheath disruption caused by exposure to potentially toxic elements. We investigate how environmental neurotoxicants contribute to oxidative stress, oligodendrocyte vulnerability, and the pathogenesis of demyelination. We also seek to unravel the molecular and cellular mechanisms surrounding myelin sheath disruption in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. Our goal is to contribute to the development of strategies for preventing and repairing myelin damage (Visit our lab website at olamideadebiyi.org for more details).

Requirements: : A bachelor’s (for MSc candidates) or Master’s (PhD applicants) degree in neuroscience, biology, biomedical sciences, or a related field. Applicants should have a background in molecular and cellular biology techniques, stereotaxic surgery, imaging, microscopy, behavioural and statistical analysis.
Applicants are encouraged to review our previous and current research at olamideadebiyi.org and demonstrate how their skills and passion align with the MynnDLab. To apply, please send your CV, academic transcripts, a brief statement of research interests, and the contact information of two references to olamide.adebiyi@usask.ca

Shape the future of neuroscience research with us at MynndLab. Together, we can unlock the mysteries of myelin biology —its role in neurotoxicity and neurodegenerative diseases!


Contact information:

olamide.adebiyi@usask.ca

M.Sc. & Ph.D. Positions in NeuroAI with a focus on System & Behavioral Neuroscience – Douglas Research Centre / McGill University

Posted on | by Julie

Position Overview: 

The Mohajerani Lab (https://douglas.research.mcgill.ca/majid-mohajerani/) at Douglas Research Centre/McGill University is seeking prospective M.Sc. or Ph.D. students to join our lab for the Fall 2025 semester. Our research focuses on analyzing animal behavior and brain dynamics through advanced AI-driven methodologies, particularly deep learning tools. The student’s project will involve studying the neural mechanisms underlying memory formation, social behavior, and societal structures in mice. By integrating brain activity data and behavioral analysis, we aim to uncover how neural circuits influence both individual and group behaviors.

Successful candidates will explore the intersection of brain dynamics and behavior, leveraging tools like computer vision and machine learning to decode how brain states are tied to cognitive and social interactions in mice. Applicants should be passionate about exploring how brain activity shapes memory, learning, and social structures, and will work on projects designed to provide insights into how neural plasticity and network connectivity contribute to these behaviors.

As part of this role, students will complete coursework for McGill’s neuroscience program (www.mcgill.ca/ipn/), a world-renowned research hub offering an intellectually stimulating and inspiring academic and career growth environment. Collaboration is at the heart of our lab, and successful candidates will work with a diverse team of researchers and institutions to advance the frontier of neurobehavioral research.

Qualifications:

  • Degree in computer science, neuroscience, psychology, or related fields
  • Strong background in coding (Python, MATLAB, etc.)
  • Experience with AI, deep learning, and machine learning tools (especially for behavioral analysis)
  • Solid understanding of neuroscience concepts related to brain activity and memory
  • Previous research experience in neuroscience, computer vision, or behavior studies
  • Proven ability to work in a collaborative team environment
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and motivation to tackle complex scientific challenges
  • High academic achievement (GPA)
  • Effective communication skills, both written and verbal

Deadline: Oct 31, 2024

What we offer:

A Focus on System & 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 academic and personal growth environment. 

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.

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 this position 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 this form. 

Note: Your responses should follow the instructions (file names, etc.) We will only review applications submitted using the following link.

https://forms.gle/zgJoAvnW62YiGoKX8

Graduate Student Positions in Behavioral & Systems Neuroscience – Botterill laboratory at University of Saskatchewan

Posted on | by Julie

The Botterill laboratory is accepting applications for graduate students (Master’s or PhD) in Neuroscience. Our laboratory is in the Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology at the University of Saskatchewan (Saskatoon, Canada).

About us: The Botterill Laboratory opened in January 2023 and is currently supported by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) Discovery Grant program, an Establishment Grant from the Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation (SHRF), and a New Investigator Award from Epilepsy Canada. Our laboratory currently employs 2 graduate students, 3 undergraduate students, and 1 high school student.

Areas of Research: Our lab is focused on two primary areas of research. Our basic science research program is focused on studying the cells and circuits involved in learning, memory, and affective behaviors in mice. Projects related to this research area are currently investigating engram cells and hippocampal mossy cells across a range of behavioral tests (e.g., fear conditioning, open field, object memory, etc). Our second research area is focused on studying the neurobiological mechanisms underlying temporal lobe epilepsy. Epilepsy projects explore neural circuits that contribute to, exacerbate, and/or prevent seizure activity using mouse models, 24/7 video EEG, and gain- and loss-of function manipulations. Active collaborations also include studying novel cannabinoid-related compounds and their therapeutic potential for seizures.

Laboratory Techniques: Our laboratory utilizes a variety of behavioral and systems neuroscience approaches to address research questions from multiple perspectives. Our current techniques include:

  • Rodent behavioral testing (fear conditioning, open field, elevated plus maze, novel object tests, etc)
    • Optogenetics, DREADDs, fiber photometry, brain infusions, inducible transgenic mice (e.g., TRAP2)
  • Mouse stereotaxic surgery (AAVs, fiber implants, depth electrodes, EEG assemblies, cannulae)
  • Mouse models of epilepsy with 24/7 video EEG recordings (pilocarpine or kainic acid)
  • Slice electrophysiology (whole cell patch clamp recordings, local field potentials)
  • Biochemistry (immunofluorescence staining of brain tissue, ELISAs) and PCR
  • Anatomy (e.g., viral tracing) and immunofluorescence microscopy

Location: The University of Saskatchewan is located in the heart of Saskatoon and is recognized as one of the most beautiful campuses in Canada. Saskatoon and the surrounding area is home to approximately 300,000 people.

Requirements: We welcome applications from highly motivated applicants with a passion for neuroscience.

  • Applicants should have a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in neuroscience or related field. Undergraduate students with laboratory experience in the final year of their program are encouraged to apply.
  • Applicants should have a competitive academic record with excellent written and oral skills.
  • Experience with rodent handling and behavioral testing is preferred.
  • Ideal candidates will have experience in mouse stereotaxic surgery (AAVs), optogenetics/fiber photometry, animal models of epilepsy, and/or electrophysiological recordings (in vivo or in vitro).

Salary: Salary is commensurate with experience; however, we acknowledge the need to provide graduate students with a livable salary that exceeds the minimum standards.

Apply: All qualified applicants will be considered. We strongly encourage applications from individuals traditionally underrepresented in the sciences. Please contact (J.BOTTERILL@USASK.CA) with the following information:

  • A brief statement of research interests & goals
  • An up-to-date curriculum vitae with at least 2 references
  • A copy of your unofficial transcripts
Botterill laboratory
Botterill laboratory
Botterill laboratory
Botterill laboratory
Botterill laboratory
U Saskatchewan

 Additional information:
Departmental Website (for tuition and other info): https://grad.usask.ca/programs/anatomy-physiology-pharmacology.php
Publications: https://scholar.google.ca/citations?hl=en&user=VL_1ODIAAAAJ
Laboratory Website: https://research-groups.usask.ca/botterillneurolab/index.php

MSc or PhD student: Vascular repair mechanisms following traumatic brain injury – University of Manitoba

Posted on | by Julie

Project description:

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) causes the loss of vascular cells and dysfunctional blood flow, which limits oxygen and nutrient support to the tissue. This exacerbates cell death and prevents the activation of neurorepair mechanisms involving neural stem cells (NSCs). Strategies to improve cerebral vascular repair have the potential to promote successful neuro-regeneration and improve the lives of TBI patients. Currently, thereI is a limited understanding of how cerebral blood flow and NSC activation are related and can be enhanced to facilitate repair.

The Lindsey and Stobart labs have started a collaboration using an adult zebrafish model to investigate how new blood vessels and blood hemodynamics may direct NSC-driven regeneration after TBI. This is an exciting opportunity to learn diverse techniques that bring together expertise from both labs. Students will learn:

  • Zebrafish neuroscience and the TBI model
  • In vivo two-photon microscopy of blood flow
  • Histological techniques (immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization)
  • FACS and flow cytometry
  • Proteomics analysis
  • Computer image analysis

We are looking for motivated candidates who hold a B.Sc. or MSc. in biology or related discipline. They must be interested in neurobiology, have good problem solving skills, and can work independently. Previous experience with zebrafish is beneficial.

Successful candidates will be admitted to the graduate program through the Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science at the University of Manitoba where they are expected to complete some course work in addition to research experiments. All students will be paid a stipend to cover tuition and living expenses. If the student is successful in the first year of the program, there will be an opportunity to transition directly to the PhD program. International students who are from countries where the primary language is not English – regardless of the language of their instruction – will also require a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 100 out of 120 (equivalent to a TOEFL CBT of 250 out of 300, a TOEFL PBT of 600 out of 677, or an IELTS score of 7.5 out of 9.0).

Please submit a letter with statement of research interests, CV including research experience, official transcripts and contact details for 2 references by email. Contact information Please send your documents to:

Dr. Benjamin Lindsey
Assistant Professor
Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science
University of Manitoba
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Canada
Benjamin.lindsey@umanitoba.ca

OR

Dr. Jill Stobart
Assistant Professor
College of Pharmacy
University of Manitoba
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Canada
jillian.stobart@umanitoba.ca
www.stobartlab.com

Graduate student and post-doctoral positions: Neural basis of motor learning and performance, McGill University

Posted on | by Julie

The Sakata lab at McGill University is looking for motivated graduate (PhD) students and postdoctoral fellows to investigate the contribution of perineuronal nets (PNNs) and parvalbumin (PV) neurons in motor circuitry to motor performance and learning (see PDF). This CIHR-funded research program is comparative, involving experiments in songbirds (zebra finches) and mice, and conducted in collaboration with the labs of Profs. Alanna Watt and Sarah Woolley (McGill). Because songbirds learn their vocalizations (in ways similar to how humans learn to speak) and possess discrete neural circuits for vocal learning and performance, songbirds are powerful animal models to reveal the neural mechanisms underlying vocal motor learning and control, including the contribution of PNNs and PV neurons to vocal performance and plasticity. Mice are an established model system to reveal locomotor plasticity and control and allow for genetic approaches to understanding PNN function. Experiments will involve behavioral analyses as well as pharmacological, viral, and genetic manipulations of PNN expression in focal brain areas. Collectively, these experiments will provide foundational and novel insights into mechanisms of skill acquisition, sensorimotor integration, neural plasticity, and movement and speech disorders.
PhD students and postdoctoral fellows will be part of an expansive neuroscience community at McGill and can take advantage of resources in the Department of Biology, Integrated Program in Neuroscience, Advanced Bioimaging Facility, and Centre for Research on Brain, Language, and Music. Outside the lab, trainees will be immersed in a diverse and exciting culture and able to live in the vibrant and affordable city of Montreal.

Contact information

Those interested in applying should contact Prof. Jon Sakata (jon.sakata@mcgill.ca) and include a description of their research history and research interests and a copy of their CV. Prospective graduate students should include their university transcripts.

Application deadline: Dec 31, 2024

View PDF version

Ad-for-positions-Sakata-Lab-2024Download

Post-doctoral or PhD Position for the development of a neuroprosthesis that supports the production of complex movements – Université de Montréal

Posted on | by Julie

A PhD position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Numa Dancause at the Université de Montréal, Department of Neurosciences. Our group investigates the mechanisms underlying movement control, neural plasticity involved in motor recovery post-brain injury, and the effects of neuromodulation techniques such as repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) on the brain. We employ rodent and macaque monkey models, and benefit from collaborations with human-focused research groups through our Canadian platform Can-Stim. Here is a full list of our published work.

The project: The PhD candidate will develop a flexible neuroprosthesis for the motor cortex capable of supporting the production of complex movements. This project is part of a multidisciplinary collaborative effort with the labs of Dr Benoit Gosselin (Université Laval), Guillaume Lajoie (UdeM) and Marco Bonizzato (Polytechnique). It integrates the use of machine-learning approaches to optimize neurostimulation, automation of behavioral data collection and wireless stimulation and electrophysiological data recording technologies. The project will involve:

  • Help design the neuromodulation platform, integrate the different components and improve performance
  • Conducting neural recordings and stimulation in behaving monkeys.
  • Programming in MATLAB or Python for data analyse
  • Adapt and improve the machine-learning algorithm to the new platform
  • Collaborating with interdisciplinary neuroscience, engineering, applied maths and data science, computational and clinical rehabilitation teams.
    Your profile:
  • Training in neuroscience, electrical or biomedical engineering or a related field.
  • Strong programming skills, particularly in MATLAB or Python for analyses of neural signals are strong assets
  • Previous experience with animal models using electrophysiological techniques AND/OR neuromodulation techniques
  • Background knowledge in electronics and experience in signal processing.
  • Background knowledge of machine-learning, AI, and computational neuroscience.
  • Motivation to pursue innovative research in biomedical engineering and motor rehabilitation.
  • Excellent communication skills and ability to work collaboratively in a research team.
  • Different roles in the project, with varying degrees of experimental versus theoretical/algorithmic focus are possible. Candidates with diverse skills and career objectives will be considered.

Why UdeM?: The Université de Montréal offers a stimulating research environment with access to state-of-the-art facilities and international collaborations. Montréal is renowned for its vibrant neuroscience community. The lab is part of multiple research groups with research interest in fundamental biomedical research (Centre d’innovation biomédicale; CIB), bridging neurosciences and artificial intelligence (Union Neurosciences et Intelligence Artificielle – Québec; UNIQUE), and brain function and learning (Centre Interdisciplinaire de Recherche sur le Cerveau et l’Apprentissage; CIRCA).

Application Process: Interested candidates should submit a cover letter outlining their research interests and career goals, a detailed CV, academic transcripts, and contact information for two references to Numa.Dancause@umontreal.ca.

Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled.

PDF version of this advertisement

MSc, PhD and Postdoc Positions – Sensorimotor circuits for motor control and learning in mice, UQTR

Posted on | by Julie

Project:

The main interest of the lab (PI: Sandrine Côté) is to investigate the anatomical and functional logic of neural circuits linking sensory and motor regions of the brain to reveal how they help orchestrate the production and learning of dexterous movements. By gaining a better understanding of these fundamental mechanisms, our ultimate goal is to develop new therapeutic treatments for neurodevelopmental disorders and acquired brain injuries linked to sensorimotor deficits.

This posting is related to a newly funded NSERC research program (5-year grant) that will investigate the role of the circuitry linking sensory thalamus to motor cortex in the context of dexterous forelimb movements using viral tools, in vivo electrophysiology, chemogenetics, calcium imaging and movement analysis using deep learning in mice.

Scholarships will be offered for all positions, but candidates will be expected to apply to provincial (e.g. FQRNT, FRQS) and federal (e.g. NSERC, CIHR) funding programs.

Requirements:

We seek highly motivated students and postdocs with research experience in areas ranging from neurosciences, biomedical sciences, psychology, biomedical engineering, rehabilitation or other related disciplines, with strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively within a team.

Candidates with diverse skills and career objectives will be considered.

Prior experience in one or more of the following is highly desirable: animal surgery, microscopy, in vivo electrophysiology, calcium imaging, chemogenetics, behavioral experimentation, programming languages (Python/Matlab), and data analysis.

Lab Environment:

We are a newly established lab at the Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières (UQTR). Trois-Rivières is well regarded by students for its affordability, friendly atmosphere, and safety. The city is surrounded by nature with outdoor activities that can be enjoyed year-round. The lab provides a dynamic, collaborative and supportive research environment that values innovative thinking, scientific rigor, teamwork and diversity. MSc and PhD students will be enrolled in the Graduate Biomedical Sciences program at UQTR. Basic knowledge of French is recommended but not required as assignments and exams can be written in French or English.

To apply:

Interested candidates should submit the following documents to sandrine.cote@uqtr.ca

  • A short cover letter describing research background and interests
  • University transcripts
  • CV

Join us in unraveling the mysteries of sensorimotor circuits!

Contact information

sandrine.cote@uqtr.ca

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

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

Posted on | by Julie

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