Category: Trainee opportunities

Postdoctoral positions in Systems Neuroscience-University of Calgary

Posted on | by Julie

The Sargin lab at the University of Calgary is seeking motivated scientists with experience and interest in Neurophysiology and Systems Neuroscience. The goal of our research program is to understand the long-term effects of early life stress on brain function. We have fully-funded two postdoctoral positions available to start immediately. The projects will focus on 1) the activity of neural circuits in mouse models with social deficits and 2) serotonin physiology in mouse models of Alzheimer’s Disease. We use a variety of multidisciplinary techniques including stereotaxic viral delivery, slice electrophysiology, in vivo calcium imaging, optogenetics and behavior.

Ideal candidates will have a PhD in Neuroscience, Physiology or related fields and experience with patch clamp electrophysiology. Strong background in neuroscience or physiology is required. Experience with photometry or optogenetics and mouse behavior is advantageous.

Dr. Sargin’s research group is a part of the Department of Psychology, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute and the Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research and Education. Our group is in a highly collaborative, interdisciplinary and international research environment that provides opportunities to develop new skills and collaborations. Our lab, department and university are committed to fostering and enhancing diversity, equity and inclusion. We welcome all applicants of diverse backgrounds.

To apply, please send a cover letter describing research background and interests along with a CV to Dr. Derya Sargin at derya.sargin@ucalgary.ca

Contact information

derya.sargin@ucalgary.ca

Posting end date

2022/10/21

Postdoctoral Fellow – Behavioral Neuroscience/Drug Discovery, University of Toronto

Posted on | by Julie

The Martin Lab (www.martinpainlab.com) in the Department of Psychology at the University of Toronto is recruiting a full-time postdoctoral fellow in the area of Behavioral Neuroscience to screen novel small molecule therapies based on psychedelics and related compounds for mental health disorders. Initial experiments will require the candidate to establish an automated head-twitch detection system to assess novel compounds aimed at the serotonin 5-HT2A receptor. The laboratory has an extensive global network of academic, industrial, and governmental collaborators. Our group offers a highly dynamic, collaborative, innovative research environment with state-of-the-art technology and instruments.

This position is in partnership with Dalriada Drug Discovery (www.dalriadatx.com), a small molecule drug discovery company supporting global innovators through its TURN-KEY™ model. With all R&D operations in Mississauga, Canada, Dalriada has built expert teams in MedChem, Biology and ADME to allow for the most rapid project advancements and value building.

Job description

There is a significant opportunity for improved next-generation therapies to address mental health disorders. The past several years have yielded a massive amount of preclinical and clinical knowledge regarding using psychedelic and related compounds to treat these disorders. There is a significant opportunity to deliver enhanced small molecule therapies building on the existing and emerging knowledge of psychedelics’ mechanism of action. The successful candidate will develop and lead a research project that tests the biological effects of novel small molecule therapeutics based on psychedelics.

 

Position start date: Immediately

Job site: University of Toronto, 3359 Mississauga Rd, Mississauga, Ontario L5L 1C6

Status: Full-time, 12-24 months contract

 

Desired Skills and experience

The candidate should have completed their Ph.D. degree in Behavioral Neuroscience, Biology, Psychology, Pharmacology, or a related discipline. The successful candidate will be a highly motivated, goal-oriented and self-driven individual ready to work independently and in a team environment. The ideal candidate has experience using rodent models to support preclinical development and screening of drug candidates.

 

Required:

  • Ph.D. in Behavioral Neuroscience, Biology, Psychology, Pharmacology, or related discipline.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Comprehensive and up-to-date knowledge of neuroscience with a background in receptor pharmacology
  • Collection, analysis and interpretation of data sets and proposal of follow-up experiments based on data trends
  • Troubleshoot and optimize automated behavioural analyses. Familiarity with DeepLabCut or a similar platform would be an asset but is unnecessary.
  • Track record of academic excellence
  • Strong skills in written and oral communication
  • Ability to work effectively independently and as a team member is a prerequisite.

Interested candidates are asked to submit a CV and a cover letter to lj.martin@utoronto.ca with the subject line “Martin-Dalriada Postdoctoral Fellowship application.”

Interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis. Please apply by September 1, 2022. Only successful applicants will be contacted for an interview.

This position is open to Canadian citizens, Permanent Residents and International Applicants.

The University of Toronto is an equal opportunity employer, and we are committed to achieving accessibility by providing accommodation for people with disabilities during our hiring process. Accommodation is available on request for qualified candidates during the recruitment process.

Contact information

Loren Martin, Ph.D.

Associate Professor, University of Toronto Mississauga
Canada Research Chair in Translational Pain Research
Department of Psychology, CCT Building, Room 4061
3359 Mississauga Rd, Mississauga, ON, L5L 1C6
PH (office): 905-569-5784, PH (lab): 905-828-3785,
Web: www.martinpainlab.com, Email: lj.martin@utoronto.ca

Postdoctoral Position in Neurobiology of Pain, McGill University

Posted on | by Julie

A postdoctoral position is available in the Alan Edwards Pain Management Unit and the Alan Edwards Centre for Research on Pain (AECRP) at McGill University under the supervision of Drs. Yoram Shir and Arkady Khoutorsky. We are looking for an independent and motivated researcher to work on multiple projects related to the role of the gut microbiome in different chronic pain conditions. The projects involve both clinical and basic science approaches, with the goal to characterize changes in the gut microbiome in chronic pain in humans, investigate the role of these changes in mediating pain and related co-morbidities, and develop strategies targeting the microbiome to alleviate pain. More details can be found here: https://www.mcgill.ca/painresearch/yoram-shir, http://arkady-khoutorsky.lab.mcgill.ca/ and https://www.mcgill.ca/painresearch/amir-minerbi .

The AECRP at McGill University hosts numerous clinical and basis science researchers covering a wide range of interests and expertise in the field of pain and creating a highly stimulating environment. Montreal is a vibrant, cosmopolitan, and affordable city with one of the strongest neuroscience communities in North America.

Highly motivated and independent individuals with a solid publication record are encouraged to apply. Priority will be given to candidates with experience in pain and/or microbiome research. The position would involve work on several basic science and clinical projects as part of a multidisciplinary team. Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills are required.

Interested candidates should send a letter of interest, a CV, and names & contact information of at least two referees to Yoram.Shir.med@ssss.gouv.qc.ca, arkady.khoutorsky@mcgill.ca.

Postdoctoral or Research Associate position available — University of Toronto

Posted on | by Julie

The Martin Lab (www.martinpainlab.com) in the Department of Psychology at the University of Toronto has a postdoctoral position available for an independent, highly motivated, and enthusiastic individual to study the synaptic basis and circuits of complex behaviour. The successful candidate will join a vibrant, highly collaborative, dynamic well-funded laboratory located on the Mississauga Campus of the University of Toronto.

The long-term objectives of our lab are to study and understand the endogenous mechanisms of pain modulation by social and cognitive factors. We are especially interested in the associations formed during the pain experience and use classical conditioning approaches to understand the learning mechanisms of pain sensitivity and pain relief as well as the contribution of fear to pain processing (Martin et al., 2019, Curr Biol). The candidate will use a combination of viral tract tracing, electrophysiology, and optical techniques to identify the cellular and circuit mechanisms that control pain following conditioning to noxious stimuli and analgesic drugs.

Qualified postdoctoral candidates should have experience with mouse models, viral vectors, in vitro (patch-clamp) electrophysiological techniques, in vivo optogenetics or fibre photometry. Experience with molecular biology and/or immunohistochemistry are strong assets. Strong background in R language and using R packages to analyze connectome data. Familiarity with Python/MATLAB for spike and waveform analysis is also advantageous.

To apply, please send a brief statement of research interests, CV, and contact information for 3 references to

lj.martin@utoronto.ca.
Contact information Loren J. Martin, Ph.D.
Associate Professor, University of Toronto Mississauga
Tier II Canada Research Chair in Translational Pain Research
Department of Psychology, CCT Building, Room 4065
3359 Mississauga Rd, Mississauga, ON, L5L 1C6

Postdoctoral Associate – Plasticity following sensory loss – Western University

Posted on | by Julie

The Neuroplasticity in Sensory Systems Lab (NiSSL.ca) at Western University is seeking a postdoctoral associate interested in how profound hearing loss gives rise to reorganized function in ‘auditory’ cortex. This may involve optogenetic/pharmacological methods to manipulate neural projections between brain areas, and the use of fiber photometry, extracellular electrophysiology and/or behaviour to quantify the effects. Previous experience in one or more of these approaches is considered an asset. The successful candidate will also be encouraged to develop independent projects that build upon the laboratory’s ongoing work.

Our lab is in the Department of Psychology and the Brain and Mind Institute, and is part of highly- productive and interdisciplinary group of researchers spanning a wide breadth of topics in cognitive neuroscience. We strongly value the principles of open science, and collaboration across labs and departments is highly encouraged; the successful candidate will have the opportunity to work with established collaborators, and to form new partnerships. Our group is firmly committed to the support of equity, diversity, and inclusivity in neuroscience, and applications from underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged.

The successful candidate should have a PhD in neuroscience, psychology, physiology, or a related discipline, with evidence of the ability to conduct independent research. In addition, quantitative and programming skills in Python, MATLAB or similar are expected. The successful candidate will work collaboratively with animal care staff and will be expected to complete training in and participate actively in animal handling as required for data collection. That said, previous experience with animal work is not mandatory.

Funding is available for two years with the possibility of renewal contingent on funding. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Interested applicants should contact Dr. Blake Butler (bbutler9@uwo.ca) and provide the following:

  1. A cover letter describing your current research, and interest in our lab
  2. Curriculum Vitae
  3. Names and contact information for 2 references

Post-doctoral fellow or research assistant in behavioural neuroscience of reward – Samaha laboratory – Université de Montréal

Posted on | by Julie

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31953370/

I will hire someone i) whose primary expertise is in the behavioural neuroscience of reward, and ii) who has demonstrated experience with optogenetic manipulations in vivo.

This profile is required. Please only apply if you have it.

Training in complementary techniques such as DREADDs, electrophysiology, voltammetry and in molecular biology assays is also desirable. Being able to speak French is an asset, but not required.

Our lab is dynamic and very collaborative. We are part of several research groups and networks, with many opportunities for collaborations. I will also support you in gaining visibility for your research work and in learning the skills necessary for a career in science.

See also
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=samaha+AN+montreal&sort=date

To apply, please send your cover letter, CV, representative publications and contact details for two references to Dr Mike Robinson mike.robinson@umontreal.ca & Dr A Samaha anna.samaha@umontreal.ca

Candidates in Canada or who can easily travel to Canada will be given preference.

Postdoc position in Neuroscience-University of Calgary

Posted on | by Julie

A Postdoctoral position in neuroscience is available in the laboratory of Dr. Derya Sargin at the University of Calgary. Work in our lab is focused on understanding how chronic stress disrupts brain function. Two major lines of research ongoing in the lab are investigating the long-term impact of early life stress and chronic social isolation on behavior and brain circuits/networks. We are using transgenic mouse models and a variety of techniques ranging from in-vivo calcium imaging, electrophysiology, optogenetics, emotional and social behaviour, and machine learning-based data analysis. With these tools, we are able to visualize brain activity in real time and investigate how brain function deteriorates in response to developmental and chronic stress. The ultimate goal of our work is to build towards novel treatment strategies for stress related disorders.

We are looking for motivated and enthusiastic candidates, with a PhD degree in neuroscience or a related field, who are eager to work in a collaborative lab environment. Applicants with a strong background in neuroscience and a proven publication record are invited to apply. Experience in any of the techniques including fiber photometry, optogenetics, rodent behavior or patch clamp electrophysiology is advantageous. Our lab, department and university are committed to fostering and enhancing diversity, equity and inclusion. We welcome all applicants of diverse backgrounds. Applications from underrepresented Indigenous, black and minority ethnic populations are particularly encouraged to apply.

Dr. Sargin’s research group is a part of the Department of Psychology, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute and the Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research and Education. Our group is in a highly collaborative, interdisciplinary and international research environment that provides opportunities to develop new skills and collaborations.

To apply, please send a cover letter describing research background and interests along with a CV to Dr. Derya Sargin at derya.sargin@ucalgary.ca

Clinician Scientist Fellowships – University of Alberta

Posted on | by Julie

The Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute (NMHI) at the University of Alberta is offering two fellowships to attract outstanding clinician scientists in training to the University of Alberta to conduct postdoctoral research in neurology and neuroscience: The Mildred I. Olsen Neurology Fellowship and The University Hospital Foundation Neurology Fellowship.

To apply:

  • Your supervisor must be a member of the NMHI (applicants must identify and contact a potential NMHI supervisor before applying);
  • You must hold an MD and plan to work in an area that falls within the NMHI research areas;

The value of each fellowship is $70,000 to be used towards salary costs; supervisors are responsible for benefits. The awards are tenable at the University of Alberta.

Deadline for Applications: August 31, 2021

About the NMHI: The NMHI is a multi-faculty, interdisciplinary teaching and research institute located at the University of Alberta. It is home to over 150 scientists and clinicians, spanning across all areas of neuroscience and mental health.

Contact information

nmhicoms@ualberta.ca

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Posting end date

2021/08/31

 

Post-Doctoral Fellowship in Experimental Quantum Neuroscience – University of Waterloo

Posted on | by Julie

The Quantum Neuroscience research group at the University of Waterloo, Canada is seeking an outstanding applicant for a Post-Doctoral Fellowship with experience in electrophysiology and molecular neuroscience.

Motivated by growing interest in the possibility that quantum effects may be at play in neuroscience, the University of Waterloo Quantum Neuroscience research group is aiming to find experimental evidence of novel quantum effects across established mammalian models used in experimental neuroscience. Specifically, the project will focus on studying the effects lithium isotopes may have on the electrophysiological activity of rodent-derived brain tissue. The demonstration of a lithium isotope effect in brain activity will be of great interest in helping to shed light on its mode of action. Of particular interest, a lithium isotope effect on animal behaviour was previously reported by Sechzer et al. [DOI:10.1016/0006-3223(86)90308-2] and, more recently, by Ettenberg et al. [DOI:10.1016/j.pbb.2020.172875]. In addition, the Waterloo Team recently obtained experimental evidence for a lithium isotope effect on electrical responses of rodent brain tissue. The post-doctoral fellow will extend this work using electrophysiology and other biochemical and biophysical methods.

The Waterloo Quantum Neuroscience research team consists of four faculty members: Zoya Leonenko, Michel Gingras, John Mielke and Michael Beazely and 12 undergraduate and graduate students. The team adopts an interdisciplinary approach that brings together expertise in theoretical physics, experimental biophysics, molecular pharmacology and neuroscience. The Waterloo team is part of the International Quantum Brain Network and works on this project in collaboration with Matthew Fisher at the University of California at Santa Barbara and four other research laboratories and is funded by an industrial pharmaceutical partner.

As a part of this project, we are seeking a post-doctoral level scientist with the following key characteristics and skills:

  • neuroscience-related, or biophysics doctoral degree
  • demonstrated expertise in the recording of field potentials (ideally, using multi-electrode arrays)
  • demonstrated research excellence in publications and presentations
  • well-developed ability to write in English
  • strong ability to work effectively within an inter-disciplinary team (involving biologists, physicists, and trainees at all levels)
  • detail-oriented with strong organizational skills
  • expertise with statistical tools typically used in biophysics and medical science
  • training in basic molecular biology techniques (such as Western blotting) is a plus

Expected duties and responsibilities:

  1. design and execute experiments
  2. work with team members to identify experimental goals and the research plans needed to reach these targets
  3. use a multi-electrode array (MED64) to perform field recording experiments from tissue slices acutely prepared from rodent brain
  4. analyze and present data, prepare written reports, and manuscript drafts
  5. analyze and present data for regular lab meetings
  6. present results (in poster, or oral form) at scientific meetings
  7. mentor junior trainees
  8. serve as a role model for junior-level trainees by providing constructive feedback and maintaining a friendly disposition

The position is initially for a 12-month appointment, with the possibility of renewal for up to three years, depending on performance. Applications will be considered until a suitable applicant is found. The start date can be as early as May 1, 2021.

To apply, please send a cover letter (2 pages maximum), a CV (including your education, scientific skills, your research experience and list of publications) and contact information for at least three senior researchers familiar with your research credentials and expertise who could provide a letter of reference on your behalf.

Contact information

Please send your application by email to: qneuro.uwaterloo@gmail.com with subject line: PDF Applicant QNeuro; Last name, First name.

Posting end date: 2021-10-01

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