Category: Trainee opportunities

Postdoctoral Position on Astrocyte-Inhibitory Interneuron Interactions – Robitaille & Lacaille laboratories, Université de Montréal

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Postdoctoral position
Dept Neurosciences
Université de Montréal
Montreal, Canada

A postdoctoral position is immediately available in the laboratory of Dr Richard Robitaille at Université de Montréal to study the role of astrocytes in the regulation of inhibitory synaptic circuits and hippocampal function. The project is funded by a NSERC Discovery grant and involves a collaboration with the laboratory of Dr Jean-Claude Lacaille.

The research focuses on the mechanisms of astrocyte regulation of inhibitory interneurons and their impact on hippocampus-dependent learning and memory. Our multidisciplinary approach uses brain slices and in vivo transgenic mice, and combines state-of-the-art molecular biology, synaptic physiology, 2-photon imaging, opto- and chemogenetics and behavioral assays.

Requirements are PhD in Neuroscience or related discipline, with expertise in single cell electrophysiology. Experience is also desirable with any of the following techniques: patch-clamp, optogenetics and calcium imaging. Successful candidates will be highly motivated, have strong work ethics, and ability to work independently as well as part of a team.

Interested applicants should submit a statement of research experience and career goals, a current CV and the names of three references to:

Contact information

Dr Richard Robitaille
richard.robitaille@umontreal.ca

Postdoctoral Researcher in the laboratory of Dr. Beverley Orser, University of Toronto

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A Postdoctoral Researcher position funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research is available in the laboratory of Dr. Beverley Orser (www.orserlab.com). The lab is located in the Department of Physiology at the downtown campus of the University of Toronto.

The goal of the research is to understand physiologic and pathological processes underlying learning and memory, and to identify the mechanisms that contribute to a decline in brain function after anesthesia and surgery. Studies will focus on neurons and glia in the hippocampus and cortex. The long-term goal is to develop novel treatments that target subtypes of inhibitory receptors for cognitive disorders after anesthesia and surgery, as well as for inflammation-induced cognitive dysfunction and mood disorders.

Qualifications:
We are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic scientist with the following skills and experience:

  • Ph.D. in Chemistry/Biochemistry/Biophysics/Molecular Cell Biology.
  • Strong background in molecular biology, protein chemistry, and biochemistry.
  • Highly experienced in DNA, RNA and protein handling and analysis techniques.
  • Technical proficiency in the areas of protein biochemistry, including: protein expression, purification and characterization using SDS-PAGE, HPLC/FPLC; characterizing protein-ligand and protein-protein interactions using affinity chromatography.
  • Ability to work independently with strong problem-solving skills.
  • Must demonstrate a good understanding of scientific principles, experimental design, and proper laboratory techniques.

Desirable experience and skills:

  • Carry out assays such as Bradford, ELISA’s and cell-based assays.
  • Knowledge in protein biophysical analysis.
  • Basic knowledge in structural biology (X-ray crystallography/Cryo-EM/NMR spectroscopy).
  • Basic knowledge of bioinformatics tools and site-directed mutagenesis.
  • Knowledge in basic tissues culture techniques is a plus.
  • Prior experiences with animal behavioral assays, electrophysiology, and optogenetics are assets.
  • Design and execute experiments to support research activities and projects in the lab.

The laboratory provides an excellent training environment and we are strongly committed to training high-quality researchers who are interested in advancing translational neuroscience. The laboratory is also strongly committed to diversity within the communities and especially welcomes applications from racialized persons/persons of color, women, indigenous/Aboriginal People of North America, persons with disabilities, LGBTQ persons, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority.

Contact information

Please send your application (a Cover Letter, a CV and the names of three references) to Dr. Dianshi Wang (dianshi.wang@utoronto.ca).

Postdoctoral Position in Neural Circuits – Topolnik Lab, Université Laval

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Laboratory of Lisa Topolnik, Neuroscience Axis, CRCHU-CHUL, Laval University, Quebec-city, Canada

A postdoctoral position is available in the lab of Dr. Lisa Topolnik to work on the functional organization of hippocampal inhibitory and disinhibitory circuits. The laboratory conducts both basic and translational neuroscience research in the areas of neural circuits, synaptic plasticity, and intracellular signalling. Our current research program is focusing on the cellular diversity and function of cortical disinhibitory circuits formed by the vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) and somatostatin-expressing interneurons as well as interneuron dendritic integration and synaptic plasticity. Our research strategy is based on combination of transcriptomic, physiological, optogenetic, pharmacogenetic and imaging approaches applied to in vitro and in vivo animal models.

A current PDF project will be focusing on exploring the molecular and cellular basis of dendritic integration in GABAergic neurons. We will study the role of inhibition in dendritic input integration in specific types of interneurons in brain slices obtained from transgenic mice in vitro. A novel optogenetic approach based on a combinatorial targeting of specific cell types for selective manipulations will be developed. The data obtained in vitro will then be integrated for in vivo investigation of the network-state dependent recruitment of specific cell types and their functional role in behaving animals. For this part, we will use cognitive and behavioral animal models in combination with calcium imaging and optogenetic cell type-specific interventions.
Candidates should have a PhD in Neurobiology or a related discipline (with a graduation date within the last 4 years), and at least two first-author papers (published or accepted). Prior experience with patch clamp electrophysiology, optogenetics or 2ph imaging in vitro or in behaving animals will be an asset. Full funding provided by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research and the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada is available for up to 4 years. Salary will be commensurate with experience and will include standard benefits as per Laval University regulations.

Contact information To apply: email your CV and cover letter to Prof. Lisa Topolnik. Lisa.Topolnik@bcm.ulaval.ca

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Post-Doctoral Position Available – Concussion Research (Drs. Brian Benson and Sean Dukelow) – University of Calgary

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A postdoctoral position is available immediately under the supervision of Drs. Brian Benson and Sean Dukelow at the Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary. The work is funded by a Mitacs Accelerate Fellowship award in association with Own the Podium. The successful candidate will take advantage of working with high-performance national level athletes at risk of concussion and advanced diagnostic tools including robotic technology (Kinarm) that monitors sensory, motor and cognitive behaviour. The environment involves working with a number of clinicians and scientists with a significant interest in sport-related concussion.

Qualified Canadian applicants should have a PhD degree in Neuroscience or related disciplines with significant expertise in human neuroscience and knowledge of coding in Matlab. Excellent written and oral communication are required. A strong academic track record as measured by publications and is an asset.

About the University of Calgary

The University of Calgary is Canada’s leading next-generation university – a living, growing and youthful institution that embraces change and opportunity with a can-do attitude. Located in the nation’s most enterprising city, the university is making tremendous progress on its Eyes High journey to be recognized as one of Canada’s top five research universities, grounded in innovative learning and teaching and fully integrated with the community it both serves and leads. The University of Calgary inspires and supports discovery, creativity and innovation across all disciplines.

For more information, visit ucalgary.ca. 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 professional success while they are here.

Contact information:

Please send a statement of interest, Curriculum Vitae and the names of at least two references to:

Dr. Sean Dukelow
Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary
Email: spdukelo@ucalgary.ca

Post-Doctoral Position Available – TCNLab (Dr. Lisa Saksida) – University of Western Ontario

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A postdoctoral position is available immediately under the supervision of Dr. Lisa Saksida at the Robarts Research Institute, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario, and in collaboration with Dr. Mark Brandon and colleagues at McGill University, to work on molecular and cellular mechanisms of information storage and neurogenesis in the hippocampus. The work will involve recording neuronal activity using miniscopes and fiber photometry and the successful candidate will have the opportunity to take advantage of the exceptional research core facilities at Western. This BrainsCAN-funded project will provide training for an early-stage investigator on advanced imaging, high-throughput touchscreen cognitive testing using touchscreens and fiber photometry. The candidate will also have excellent opportunities to interact with researchers and core facilities funded by Western’s BrainsCAN, the Canada First Research Excellence Fund recently awarded to Western.

Robarts is one of the premier research institutes in Canada with a vibrant research community and many opportunities for collaborations. The University of Western Ontario (www.uwo.ca) is a major educational and research center in Ontario with over 25,000 undergraduate and 5,000 graduate students. Cognitive neuroscience in health and disease is a major research focus at Western. London, also known as the Forest City, is an affordable and lively community close to the Great Lakes and two hours from Toronto. The city offers many options for outdoor and cultural activities.

Qualified applicants should have a PhD degree in Neuroscience or related disciplines with significant expertise in studying mouse models. Prior experience in mouse surgery, fiber photometry, in vivo electrophysiology, data analysis using MatLab, Python and R, documented in peer-reviewed publications will be an asset. We are looking for a highly-motivated individual within 2 years of receiving a PhD with advanced mathematical and analytical skills. Salary will be paid commensurate with experience.

Western is committed to employment equity and diversity in the workplace and welcomes applications from women, members of racialized groups/visible minorities, Aboriginal persons, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation, and persons of any gender identity or gender expression.

Contact information:

Please send a statement of interest, Curriculum Vitae, and the names of at least two references to:
Dr. Lisa Saksida,
Robarts Research Institute, University of Western Ontario
Email: lsaksida@robarts.ca

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Two Max Planck Postdoc Fellowships – Krembil Research Institute (Toronto, Canada)

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We are currently recruiting 2 Postdoctoral Associates to hold Max Planck fellowships and conduct research at the Krembil Research Institute in Toronto, Canada.

One position is for a candidate with a neuroscience background and experience in optogenetics and fluorescence imaging: https://www.recruitingsite.com/csbsites/uhncareers/JobDescription.asp?SiteID=10031&JobNumber=854546

The second position is for a candidate with an engineering background and experience in micro-neurotechnology, especially implants: https://www.recruitingsite.com/csbsites/uhncareers/JobDescription.asp?SiteID=10031&JobNumber=854547

Please follow the links for more details and application details.

Contact information:

anett.schumacher@uhnresearch.ca

Posting end date:  2020/04/30

SickKids post-doctoral position- Immediate- Mild traumatic brain injury research

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CIHR funded project- hiring post-doc immediately to study effects of glial senescence on neurons. Successful candidate will have experience and expertise in glio-neuronal co-culture techniques, molecular techniques including RNA/DNA extraction, proteomics, and background/interest in neuroscience/ neurodegenerative disease. Project will include experimental mouse model of mTBI, in vitro studies and access to a Human brain bank with history of brain trauma.

Please contact directly Principal investigator: Lili-Naz.hazrati@sickkids.ca

Neuropathology of mild traumatic brain injury (concussion) post-doc position at SickKids

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NIH Funded post-doctoral position to study neuropathological changes of brain trauma in athletes. Candidate should have good knowledge of neuropathological work-up of neurodegenerative diseases in human brains. Project plans to explore and report on all neuropathological changes in a brain bank.
Contact information lili-naz.hazrati@sickkids.ca

A post-doc position in the field of neural stem cell reprogramming and differentiation, Wang lab, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute

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Description of the position:

Our research focuses on delineating molecular mechanisms that regulate neural stem cell reprogramming and differentiation, with the ultimate goal of the development of stem cell- based therapy to promote neural repair in the context of various neurological disorders. The individual filling this position is particularly involved in the ongoing project in the lab that is to develop integration-free methodology to reprogram non-neuronal cells into neural cells and to optimize stem cell-based therapies for post-stroke neurovascular regeneration and functional recovery. A variety of molecular, cellular, and behavioral techniques are used in the laboratory, including transgenic mouse models, neurosphere culture, rodent and human reprogramming cell culture and stereotaxic surgery, various neurological degeneration disease models, etc.

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Experience in rat stroke models, stereotaxic surgery, Cell Biology (cell line or primary cell culture, immunohistochemistry and immunocytochemistry) and in vivo animal study.
  • Excellence in research with strong publication records
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Self-motivated and strong desire to learn
  • Experience with Human primary cell culture is an asset

Deadline: Until the position is filled.

Individuals who are interested in the position should submit curriculum vitae, a copy of official transcripts, statement of research interest and names of three references to:

jiwang@ohri.ca
Dr. Jing Wang, Ph.D.
Senior Scientist, Sprott Centre for Stem Cell Research
Ottawa Hospital Research Institute
Assistant Professor Department of Cellular & Molecular Medicine

University of Ottawa
Ottawa Hospital, 501 Smyth Rd, Box 511
Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6 CANADA

Postdoctoral Researcher in Computational Neuroscience – Lefebvre lab at UOttawa

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The Lefebvre lab at uOttawa is recruiting two postdoctoral fellows for the Winter 2020. Candidates interested in computational neuroscience, brain imaging and applied mathematics are encouraged to apply.

Selected candidates will be involved in the following projects:

  1. In collaboration with the Griffiths Lab at the CAMH Krembil Center for Neuroinformatics (KCNI) and University of Toronto, the goal of the project is to develop, analyse and explore computational models of non-invasive brain stimulation (e.g. TMS, TES) and their impact on multi-scale neural activity. Specifically, we seek to better understand network-based mechanisms of neural control, oscillatory entrainment and/or stimulation-induced brain plasticity. This project involves a combination of computational and mathematical modelling, has strong potential for knowledge translation, and aims to help inspire new non-invasive treatments for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD).
  2. In collaboration with the Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) in Toronto, the goal of this project is to better understand mechanisms of white matter plasticity, neuron-glia interactions, myelination and its impact on brain function. Using a combination of modelling and simulations, interfacing rodent and human data, the role of the fellow will be to examine the influence of white matter plasticity on neural synchrony and memory. This project involves a combination of computational and mathematical modelling, and strong interactions with experimentalists.

The research will take place in the Department of Biology, the Brain and Mind Institute and the Center for Neural Dynamics of the University of Ottawa, a vivid interdisciplinary research cluster set in the bilingual capital of Canada. Both projects are deployed in the Ottawa-Toronto axis, through close collaborations between uOttawa, uToronto, CAMH KCNI, The University Health Network and The Krembil Research Institute. Based on the research needs and resources, candidates will be required to travel between both cities often. Throughout, candidates will interact closely with clinicians, experimentalists and scholars in neuroimaging.

Requisites:

Candidates should have completed their PhD in physics, mathematics, neuroscience or related disciplines, and have an excellent publication track record. Expertise in programming is a necessity, as well as independence in research. Experience in brain imaging, signal processing and dynamical systems are considered strong assets. Contracts are for one year, with possibility of extension subject to sufficient progress. of one additional year. While the positions are fully funded, candidates are nonetheless expected to apply for external/competitive funding throughout their training.

To apply, please send 1) a letter of interest, 2) a full CV and 3) two(2) letters of reference to jeremie.lefebvre at hotmail dot com. Selected candidates will be contacted for an interview! Job open until filled!