One of the fundamental questions in neurobiology focuses on how brain is built and regenerated. Deficient oligodendrocytes and myelin are implicated in the pathobiological mechanisms of a variety of neurological disorders, including multiple sclerosis and neurodevelopmental disorders. Conversely, restoration of normal oligodendrocytes and/or myelin is an attractive therapeutic target. The Voronova lab studies oligodendrocyte development and regeneration in mouse and human cell (hiPSC) models that carry mutations in CX3CR1 gene, chemokine receptor associated with more severe MS progression, and ANKRD11 gene, chromatin remodeller and causative gene of neurodevelopmental KBG syndrome.
Postdoctoral fellow or Ph.D. candidate will investigate mechanisms of oligodendrocyte development and regeneration in mouse and hiPSC models of MS and/or KBG syndrome to identify how mutations affect differentiation and function of oligodendrocytes as well as other cell types, such as microglia. Techniques will include murine demyelination and remyelination experiments, surgeries, iPSC culture and differentiation, high content imaging, live imaging, flow cytometry, single cell RNA-sequencing, single cell spatial transcriptomics (MERFISH), immunohistochemistry, confocal and electron microscopy. The resulting information may lead to the discovery of novel disease mechanisms and the development of novel remyelinating therapies. Recent papers from the lab include: Kibalnyk et al. Nat Comm 2024; Goodkey et al. 2024 BMC Medicine; Almeida et al. 2023 Stem Cell Reports, and others.
An ideal candidate will be highly motivated and can work as a team player and a leader. Preference will be given to applicants with previous molecular biology, demyelination, neuroinflammation or iPSC experience and/or extensive cell or developmental biology expertise. Position will be open until filled.
Candidates should submit the following by Feb 15:
- cover letter;
- complete CV;
- transcripts (for PhD student applicants); and
- the names and contact information of at least two academic referees.
E-mail applications to voronova@ualberta.ca. Only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.
Contact information:
voronova@ualberta.ca