Category: Trainee opportunities

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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Postdoc position in neural stem cell biology – University of Toronto

Posted on | by Julie

The Yuzwa lab in the Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology at the University of Toronto is seeking to hire a Post-doctoral Fellow. Work in our lab aims to understand how cell genesis occurs in the developing and mature brain under conditions of healthy physiology and disease. To do so, we are currently studying the role of cell signaling inhibition and developing/applying tools to probe lineage and spatial relationships in the brain. Such studies typically involve the use of traditional neurobiological approaches (immunostaining, primary culture, transgenics, etc.) and tools from systems-biology (single-cell genomics and spatially-resolved transcriptomic approaches).

The successful applicant, working independently with consultation from the Principal Investigator (PI), will apply and advance the aforementioned systems-biology tools to characterize neural stem cell biology and the impacts of disease on these cells. The applicant will also be required to validate and test predictions resulting from these data using biochemical, primary neural culture, small animal surgery or transgenic based approaches.

Primary responsibilities will largely include carrying out an independent research project as described above. However, the applicant may be required (as directed by the PI) to 1) work with and train graduate/undergraduate students; 2) help ensure the smooth functioning of the lab (such as maintaining supplies and equipment) and; 3) collaborate with internal/external research groups.

Qualifications (Minimum):

Education: Applicant must hold a PhD or equivalent degree (within 3 years of being awarded) by the agreed upon start date in neuroscience, molecular biology, molecular genetics, cell biology, biochemistry or a related discipline.

Experience: Applicant must demonstrate a strong record of research achievement as evidenced by the ability to prepare and publish scientific manuscripts in major journals and present research findings at scientific meetings. Familiarity with any one or more of the following: neurobiology, synthetic biology, bioinformatics or single-cell genomics would be an asset.

Skills: Prior training in cell culture and molecular biological techniques is required (at minimum). In addition, the successful applicant must possess a number of the following skills: experience with transcriptomics/next-generation sequencing; experience with experimental design and trouble-shooting; ability to adapt and learn new techniques; strong communicator (both oral and written); excellent analytical and problem-resolution skills; good time management and organization skills with the ability to work on multiple competing tasks. Ability to complete University of Toronto certification in chemical, biosafety and animal care, procedures will be required.

Contact information

Please forward a cover letter, CV and names and contact information for three references to:

Dr. Scott Yuzwa
Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathobiology
University of Toronto
Medical Sciences Building, 1 King’s College Circle,
Toronto, ON M5S 1A8
yuzwalab.ca
Email: scott.yuzwa@utoronto.ca

Posting end date 2021/04/26

Download a PDF version of this advertisement: Yuzwa_PostDoc_Posting_Mar2021_FINAL.pdf

Two Postdoc positions are available to study the role of primary cilia in neurodevelopment – University of Calgary

Posted on | by Julie

Two postdoctoral fellow positions in the field of Neuroscience are immediately available in the research group of Dr. Jiami Guo, Calgary University, Alberta, Canada. The research team focuses on the function of primary cilia, under-appreciated cellular antenna, in brain development and function and how disrupted cilia contribute to neurological disorders such as intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, and glioblastoma.
Interested applicants must have a Ph.D. and/or M.D. degree in a field related to Neuroscience or Biomedical sciences.

For position 1, previous research experience with neurodevelopment, human/mouse genetics, iPSC, biochemistry, molecular cloning, organoids, single-cell RNAseq, next-generation RNAseq will be considered a plus;

For position 2, 2-photon live imaging, in vitro and in vivo electrophysiology, optogenetic/chemogenetic neural circuit manipulations, rodent behavioral assays, neural surgeries and viral delivery of genes will be considered a strong plus. This position will be co-supervised by another PI who is a leading expert in these techniques.

Successful applicants will be highly motivated and energetic individuals with good communication skills, interest and experience in neuroscience/cell biology /developmental biology /genetics, and will have a proven publication record and the ability to work independently.

The research group of Dr. Jiami Guo is part of the Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy. Dr. Guo is a New York Stem Cell Foundation Robertson Investigator, a member of the Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute and Hotchkiss Brain Institute. These institutes provide an international, dynamic and collaborative research environment and stimulate innovative basic and biomedical research.

To apply, please send a cover letter describing research background and interests, plus Curriculum Vitae with a complete list of all your journal publications and the contact information of 3 professional references to Dr. Jiami Guo (email: jiami.guo@ucalgary.ca)

Postdoctoral position in computational neuroscience | CAMH, University of Toronto

Posted on | by Julie

We will study cortical processing in health and depression in pre-clinical animal models using large-scale simulations of rat cortical microcircuits (in collaboration with the Blue Brain Project). The position is for 2 years, with anticipated start time in June 2021.

Interested applicants with publications and experience in computational neuroscience, who have completed their PhD in the last 5 years, are invited to send their CV to Dr. Etay Hay (etay.hay@camh.ca). In support of diversity, women are particularly encouraged to apply.

Hay lab for brain microcircuit modelling is located at Krembil Centre for Neuroinformatics, within the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (camh). We are fully affiliated with the University of Toronto, and situated at the main campus, downtown Toronto.

Contact information:

Dr. Etay Hay (etay.hay@camh.ca)

Postdoctoral position in cellular/computational Neuroscience: Katalin Tóth, uOttawa Brain and Mind Institute

Posted on | by Julie

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral fellowship starting immediately at the University of Ottawa to investigate features of synaptic signal integration and microcircuit function using experimental and computational approaches. The researcher will join a collaborative group with expertise in cellular electrophysiology, two-photon imaging, and advanced computational modelling and statistical processing (Drs Katalin Toth and Richard Naud). Expertise in cellular electrophysiology and/or in two-photon cellular imaging is required. This fully funded position with attractive conditions is available immediately. The candidate is expected to be competitive for external fellowships.

The researcher will join uOttawa’s Brain and Mind Research Institute’s Center for Neural Dynamics (Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine; Faculty of Medicine). uOttawa’s Neuroscience community is fast expanding, highly dynamic and offers a rich array of collaborative opportunities. Ottawa, the capital of Canada, is a green, multi-cultural city that offers the highest standard of living in the country and is second worldwide for quality of life (Numbeo index, 2015). The city has many parks including the Unesco World Heritage Rideau Canal and is surrounded by an extensive greenbelt. This bilingual, culturally-rich city lies along the border between the province of Quebec and Ontario and is within driving distance to Montréal and Toronto.

Employer Profile:

The University of Ottawa is a bilingual research university in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. The university offers a wide variety of academic programs, administered by ten faculties. It is a member of the U15, a group of research-intensive universities in Canada. In the Maclean’s 2015 Canadian University rankings, the University of Ottawa ranked 2nd for Medical/Science Grants, 2nd for Scholarships & Bursaries and 1st for Student Services in the Medical/Doctoral University category.

Please send CV, statement of research interest and names of three references to: Katalin Toth (ktoth@uottawa.ca).