Category: Trainee opportunities

The Guo lab PDF-Cilia, underappreciated signaling hubs in the brain

Posted on | by Julie

The Guo Lab at the Hotchkiss Brain Institute and Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary is seeking candidates for two postdoctoral 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 m 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. PDFs 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, including astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and mural cells in development and disease, using both mouse models and human cells.
  • Define the role of primary cilia in human brain development, particularly focused on neural progenitors and lineages.
  • Analyze data from molecular, genetic, imaging, and behavioral experiments.
  • Collaborate with lab members and interdisciplinary teams at U of Calgary and internationally.

Qualifications:

  • PhD in neuroscience or a related field.
  • (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).
  • A strong track record with neuroscience research in peer-reviewed journals.
  • 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

Post-doctoral Position in Neuroscience: Lohman and Nguyen Labs at UCalgary

Posted on | by Julie

The Lohman and Nguyen Labs at the University of Calgary and Hotchkiss Brain Institute are seeking motivated applicants for a post-doctoral position studying gliovascular, glymphatic and immune dynamics in models of brain injury and neurodegeneration (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis / ALS and Alzheimer’s disease / AD). Projects will involve in vivo multiphoton imaging of glia, vascular, perivascular and immune cells following traumatic brain injury and in neurodegeneration using genetically-encoded biosensors and optogenetic tools. The desired applicant will have experience in microscopy, with an emphasis on live cell and, ideally, in vivo cranial window imaging. The successful applicant will be expected to work as part of a team while managing independent projects. Dr. Alex Lohman’s research program focuses on repetitive, mild traumatic brain injuries during adolescence and the unique consequences on neuroinflammation using mouse and rat models. Dr. Nguyen’s research program investigates the pathogenic mechanisms underlying ALS and AD. The applicant will be further supported by Dr. Grant Gordon who has extensive expertise with in vivo cranial window multiphoton imaging and optogenetics. This position is funded through a CIHR Project Grant and Brain Canada Operating grant, but the successful applicant will be encouraged to apply for extramural funding opportunities.
Lohman Lab: https://cumming.ucalgary.ca/departments/bmb/profiles/dr-alexander-w-lohman
Nguyen Lab: www.cytoskeletonexus.com

Individuals interested in this opportunity should submit (in pdf format) the following via email to Alex Lohman (alex.lohman@ucalgary.ca) and Minh Dang Nguyen (mdnguyen@ucalgary.ca) .

  • Letter of interest
  • Curriculum vitae
  • Any relevant publications (3 maximum)
  • Names and contact information of three referees (who will only be contacted if a candidate is shortlisted)

The position is located in Calgary, Alberta. Applications will be accepted until a suitable candidate is identified.

The terms and conditions of employment are covered under the UCalgary and PDAC Collective Agreement. To find out more about postdoctoral scholar program at the University of Calgary visit our Postdocs website.

About the University of Calgary
UCalgary is Canada’s entrepreneurial university, located in Canada’s most enterprising city. It is a top research university and one of the highest-ranked universities of its age. Founded in 1966, its 36,000 students experience an innovative learning environment, made rich by research, hands-on experiences and entrepreneurial thinking. It is Canada’s leader in the creation of start-ups. Start something today at the University of Calgary. For more information, visit ucalgary.ca.

About Calgary, Alberta
Calgary is one of the world’s cleanest cities and has been named one of the world’s most livable cities for years. Calgary is a city of leaders – in business, community, philanthropy and volunteerism. Calgarians benefit from the strongest economy in the nation and enjoy more days of sunshine per year than any other major Canadian city. Calgary is less than an hour’s drive from the Rocky Mountains and boasts the most extensive urban pathway and bikeway network in North America.

The University of Calgary has launched an institution-wide Indigenous Strategy committing to creating a rich, vibrant, and culturally competent campus that welcomes and supports Indigenous Peoples, encourages Indigenous community partnerships, is inclusive of Indigenous perspectives in all that we do.

As an equitable and inclusive employer, the University of Calgary recognizes that a diverse staff/faculty benefits and enriches the work, learning and research experiences of the entire campus and greater community. We are committed to removing barriers that have been historically encountered by some people in our society. We strive to recruit individuals who will further enhance our diversity and will support their academic and professional success while they are here. In particular, we encourage members of the designated groups (women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, members of visible/racialized minorities, and diverse sexual orientation and gender identities) to apply. To ensure a fair and equitable assessment, we offer accommodation at any stage during the recruitment process to applicants with disabilities. Questions regarding [diversity] EDI at UCalgary can be sent to the Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (equity@ucalgary.ca) and requests for accommodations can be sent to Human Resources (hrhire@ucalgary.ca).

Contact information

Alex Lohman (alex.lohman@ucalgary.ca) and Minh Dang Nguyen (mdnguyen@ucalgary.ca) .

Postdoctoral positions: neural circuits underlying motor skill acquisition – Chen lab – University of Ottawa

Posted on | by Julie

The Chen Lab at the Brain and Mind Research Institute, University of Ottawa is seeking candidates for two postdoctoral positions in molecular/system neuroscience.
The Chen lab is specialized in combining chronic in vivo imaging (two-photon microscopy, fiber photometry, GRIN lens imaging) with genetic and molecular approaches to dissect how cell type- and projection-specific plasticity orchestrate long-lasting structural and functional reorganization of the brain’s circuitry in normal and disease brains (Yin et al., Nature Neuroscience 2021; Lee et al., eLife 2022; Yang et al., Neuron 2022).
https://www.schenlabuottawa.com/

Key Responsibilities:

  • Lead a project that identifies the roles of specialized gene expression programs in distinct excitatory and inhibitory neuron subtypes during motor learning.
  • Utilize in vivo imaging techniques to monitor neural activity in cortical and/or subcortical regions
  • Analyze data from molecular, genetic, and behavioral experiments.
  • Collaborate with lab members and interdisciplinary teams within uOttawa’s growing neuroscience community.

Qualifications:

  • PhD in neuroscience or a related field.
  • Experience with molecular biology, RNAseq, and mouse behavior
  • Experience with coding is an asset (e.g., Python, MATLAB).
  • A strong track record with neuroscience research in peer-reviewed journals.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.

The researcher will join uOttawa’s Brain and Mind Research Institute (Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine; Faculty of Medicine). The neuroscience community is fast expanding, highly dynamic and offers a rich array of collaborative opportunities. For more information about the Brain and Mind Research Institute, visit: https://www.uottawa.ca/research-innovation/brain

Ottawa, the capital of Canada, is a green, vibrant, multi-cultural city that offers the highest standard of living in the country and ranks second worldwide for quality of life (Numbeo index, 2015). The city features numerous parks, including the UNESCO World Heritage Rideau Canal and is surrounded by an extensive greenbelt. This bilingual, culturally-rich city lies at the border of Quebec and Ontario and is within driving distance of Montréal and Toronto.
Interested candidates should submit electronically as a single PDF file to Dr. Simon Chen at schen2@uottawa.ca. Applications will be considered until a suitable candidate is found.

Please include:

  • A personal statement describing research interests, experience, and goals (<2 pages)
  • A complete curriculum vitae
  • Names and contact information of three references

Contact information

Dr. Simon Chen
schen2@uottawa.ca

Mouse functional neurogenetics of rare diseases – Université de Montréal

Posted on | by Julie

Project Overview

Since 2020, we have collaborated with a patient association with whom we have discovered new genetic variations in a gene that had never before been implicated in neurological diseases. We have access to patient cells and have generated numerous lossof- function models in this gene: KO mouse model, humanized mouse model, conditional KO mouse model, KO zebrafish models, KO cell lines, iPSC-KO… Our recent work has validated the pathogenicity of patient variants and, more broadly, the loss of function of this gene in neurodevelopmental diseases. Over the next few years, we aim to decipher the yet unknown function of this gene during neurodevelopment and central nervous system function. The project will focus on the analysis of neurodevelopment in different conditional KO mouse models. The project will also investigate how perturbations in this gene can affect the function of the central nervous system, particularly causing seizures.

Expertise

We are looking to recruit a passionate post-doctoral fellow with extensive expertise in the study of neurodevelopment in mice and in-depth knowledge of neurogenesis. Expertise in molecular biology analytical techniques applied to mice is required. Expertise in behavioural analysis and EEG recording in mice is a plus. Expertise in bioinformatics data

Why joining?

  • All models are already generated
  • Working on an entirely new subject with a gene whose function is totally unknown
  • Project funded for 3 years
  • Participation in one international congress per year to present research data
  • A young, dynamic lab autonomy to thrive
  • A vast network of collaborators (clinicians, geneticists, researchers)
  • Modern premises in the heart of downtown Montreal

Our Lab

Our laboratory is interested in dissecting the molecular mechanisms underlying rare neurological diseases. We take advantage of the ease of use of the zebrafish model, but also combine it with mouse models and human cells.

Find out more about our lab: https://www.samlab.ca/

  • Provincial tax exemption with post-doc status at Université de Montréal
  • Technical support from more than 19 platforms at the CRCHUM

Contact information Send a cover letter, CV and at least two letters of recommendation to eric.samarut@umontreal.ca

There are no closing dates for applications, and analysis of the files may stop as soon as a candidate has been selected.

annonce-PDF-2024-enDownload

Postdoctoral Fellowship in Neuroimmunology and Neurodevelopment – Dong and Howland Laboratories, University of Saskatchewan

Posted on | by Julie

Applications are being considered for a new postdoctoral fellow who will work in the laboratories of Drs. Jeff Dong and John Howland at the University of Saskatchewan. The successful applicant will lead two collaborative projects with funding secured from CIHR and the US Department of Defense: 1) the roles of oxidized phosphatidylcholines in brain aging and multiple sclerosis, and 2) the long-term effects of gestational cannabis exposure on offspring brain and behavioural development. The ideal applicant will have experience with single cell and/or spatial transcriptomic analysis as well as proficiency in molecular biology and/or behavioural neuroscience techniques. Applicants are expected to have strong written and oral communication skills, as evidenced by their academic record or previous research experience. We encourage applications from individuals that have been traditionally under-represented in the life sciences. Salary will be commensurate with past experience and external scholarships/awards.

Please contact Jeff Dong (jeff.dong@usask.ca) and John Howland (john.howland@usask.ca) with:

1) a brief statement of research interests, and

2) a CV with the names of at least two references.

The review of applications will begin in early fall, 2024.

Canadian Postdoc Seminar Series – Call for Organizers (2024-2025)

Posted on | by Julie

Dear CAN members,

With the growing success of the Canadian Neuroscience Seminars – Postdoctoral Series (CNS-PDS), we are delighted to announce a “Call for Organizers” for the third round of CNS-PDS (2024-2025). 

CNS - PDS logo

The CNS-PDS initiative, organized by postdocs for postdocs, promotes research accomplishments of postdocs throughout Canada and Canadian postdocs abroad. Our speakers have a unique opportunity to increase their scientific visibility and network within the CAN community. These seminars also give a room for the CAN community to interact with the next generation of neuroscientists.

The series takes place monthly in the format of virtual presentations, and features scientific talks from talented postdocs in any field of fundamental or clinical neuroscience.

Currently we are inviting CAN postdocs to join the committee for the upcoming year (2024-2025) to help organize the seminars. Being part of this committee is not only an excellent way of expanding your network, but it is also a great opportunity to gain leadership and outreach experiences along with making an impact in the scientific community. 

Ideally, the organizing committee will be representative of multiple institutions across Canada. To promote better representation, people who identify as belonging to under-represented groups in neuroscience research are strongly encouraged to apply.

Duties of the committee will include reviewing submissions, speaker selection, organizing the 2025 schedule and hosting seminars. Please note that while serving on the committee, members are prohibited from presenting their work at the seminars due to conflict of interest.

If you are interested in being part of next year’s committee, please fill out the following Google form: 

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/195KIEUMr9beb4nTCdkqEYv8u64DGwBrThO85CGlUSPQ

Application deadline: SEPTEMBER 6, 2024, by 11:59 pm (Pacific Time)

Questions? Contact seminars@can-acn.org

Sincerely,

CNS-PDS Committee

Twitter: @CNS_PDS

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

Postdoctoral Associate, Neuroscience – Joy lab at Jackson Laboratory

Posted on | by Julie
Jackson Laboratory logo

The Joy lab is looking for a motivated postdoctoral candidate interested in studying circuit repair and motor behavior after stroke with the goal of identifying translatable therapies for stroke recovery.

The focus of the lab is to determine how brain circuits reorganize after a stroke, contributions of these reorganizational process to motor function, molecular signatures that drive recovery and therapeutic targets for stroke. We use a host of techniques including but not limited to large-scale mesoscopic calcium imaging, optogenetics, gene targeting with viral vectors or transgenics, transcriptomics and ethological measurements of behavior.

The ideal candidate will have a PhD in Biological Sciences or nearing completion, experience in one or more of the above techniques, a strong background in neuroscience and optionally molecular biology and data science. We are looking for a candidate that is driven, can leverage the lab’s existing expertise and build upon this and does not shy away from new ideas/approaches and challenges. Additionally, the candidate will have access to JAX’s unique postdoctoral training program that offers support and substantial guidance for building an independent career in science through applications to postdoctoral and transition awards.

This is also a unique opportunity to explore the beautiful outdoors and the coastline of Bar Harbor, ME , be it a day at the Acadia National park, a walk through the carriage roads, sailing in the Atlantic , snow sports or being part of the exuberant festivities over the Summer.

Interested applicants are encouraged to submit a 1-page cover letter briefing your training, current and future interests, CV and contact information for 2-3 references.

The Joy lab supports postdocs that have either academic or non-academic long-term career goals, international candidates, women and candidates from all backgrounds. We truly believe in equal opportunity for all.

JAX Salary
Year 0 – 1 $65,589
Year 1 – 2 $67,318
Year 2 – 3 $69,095
Year 3 – 4 $70,521
Year 4 – 5 $72,877
Year 5 – 6 $75,569

#CA-NF7

About JAX:

The Jackson Laboratory is an independent, nonprofit biomedical research institution with a National Cancer Institute-designated Cancer Center and nearly 3,000 employees in locations across the United States (Maine, Connecticut, California), Japan and China. Its mission is to discover precise genomic solutions for disease and empower the global biomedical community in the shared quest to improve human health.

Founded in 1929, JAX applies over nine decades of expertise in genetics to increase understanding of human disease, advancing treatments and cures for cancer, neurological and immune disorders, diabetes, aging and heart disease. It models and interprets genomic complexity, integrates basic research with clinical application, educates current and future scientists, and provides critical data, tools and services to the global biomedical community. For more information, please visit www.jax.org​​​​​​​.

EEO Statement:

The Jackson Laboratory provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment in all job classifications without regard to race, color, religion, age, mental disability, physical disability, medical condition, gender, sexual orientation, genetic information, ancestry, marital status, national origin, veteran status, and other classifications protected by applicable state and local non-discrimination laws.

Contact information:

Nicole Fraser, Talent Acquisition Partner
Nicole.Fraser@jax.org

Please apply here: https://thejacksonlaboratory.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/External_JAX/job/Bar-Harbor-Maine/Postdoctoral-Associate—Neuroscience—Joy-Lab_JR004213

Postdoctoral Fellow in Focused Ultrasound (FUS) Neuromodulation Imaging/Electrophysiology and Modeling – University of Calgary

Posted on | by Julie

A motivated Postdoctoral Fellow is sought to join a unique multidisciplinary team of imaging and ultrasound engineers (Bruce Pike, Sam Pichardo, Kartik Murari) and neuroscientists (Zelma Kiss, Darren Clark, Patrick Whelan, Andrea Protzner). The project is NSERC-funded and involves focused ultrasound (FUS) neuromodulation imaging/electrophysiology and modeling. Focused ultrasound is emerging as an important neuromodulatory tool, allowing for non-invasive or minimally invasive alteration of brain network function. The mechanisms of FUS action are not well-understood. The candidate would use in vitro and in vivo animal models to interrogate how FUS alters neural function, with access to cutting edge equipment from InSightec, BrainSonics, as well as custom-built focused ultrasound systems and software. The post-doc will present at local and international conferences (e.g. International Symposium on Therapeutic Ultrasound will be in neighbouring Banff in 2025), have opportunities for teaching or industry relationships, and expand the project into new directions. Taking ownership of the work will allow them to apply for their own fellowship funding from local and national/international organizations, with the support of their network of mentors.
Responsibilities:

  • Responsibilities include participating in planning and intellectual development of projects, taking leadership roles in experiments, papers, presentations, applications, and mentoring graduate and undergrad students.
    Candidate Requirements:
  • Must have a PhD with a strong background in electrophysiology, modellingand/or intravital imaging.
  • Be within 5 years of PhD completion and have a publication record in respected scientific journals.

Benefits and Training Environment:

  • A competitive salary and benefits will be provided through the University of Calgary post-doctoral training stream, including health spending account.
  • Contracts are offered yearly with potential for longer-term training due to the project’s 5-year duration.
  • The training environment within the Hotchkiss Brain Institute offers access to state-of-the-art translational research facilities, a weekly seminar series, and clinical rounds featuring leading international neuroscientists.

Contact information Please send CV and contact information for 3 references to Drs. Zelma Kiss and Bruce Pike at zkiss@ucalgary.ca or bruce.pike@ucalgary.ca

View a PDF of this advertisement:

UofCalgary PDF_FUS_jun24Download