Postdoctoral Fellowship in Descalzi Lab – University of Guelph

Job Title: Postdoctoral Fellow
Position Location: University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, onsite

About Us: Our research bridges behavioural neuroscience with molecular biology and systems neuroscience to investigate gene expression networks the molecular and cellular mechanisms within the brain that promote the development of chronic pain and comorbid anxiodepressive states. Areas of research include:
o The intersection of pain and emotion
o Pain induced dysregulation of brain circuits and gene function
o Astrocyte-neuronal coupling in chronic pain
o The effects of chronic pain and stress on overall health and quality of life

About The Role: Dr. Giannina Descalzi is seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow who will contribute to research aiming to improve the lives of Canadians living with chronic pain. In this role, you will have the opportunity to participate in and lead studies using a variety of techniques including: in-vivo calcium imaging and optogenetics; behavioural paradigms; molecular biology, including recombinant DNA to engineer constructs for viral mediated gene transfer, and chemo-genetics.

As a Postdoctoral Fellow, Your Key Responsibilities Will Include:

  • Working independently as well as with interdisciplinary teams
  • Designing your project with the support of Dr. Descalzi and their multi-disciplinary team of collaborators
  • Establishing yourself as an innovator through impactful publications
  • Instruction and support for graduate-level students in the lab

What You’ll Bring To The Role:

  • PhD or MD/PhD in neuroscience or related field obtained in the last 5 years. PhD students in the last year of their thesis work, are eligible to apply.
  • A strong independent thinker with a focus on discovery and problem-solving, and a passion for fundamental exploratory research and boundless curiosity.
  • Hands-on experience in one or more of the following:
  • rodent stereotaxic surgery; RTqPCR, ELISAs, Western Blots, IHC; rodent behavioural testing
  • previous experience with calcium imaging is a major plus, but not necessary
  • Strong publication record or other scientific achievements (i.e. awards, patents, grants).
  • Excellent analytical, communication, presentation, and organizational skills for conducting research of the highest quality and a keen learner’s attitude.

How To Apply: Assessment of applications will begin on August 1, 2024 and will continue until the position is filled. Interested applicants should submit the following materials (preferably as a single PDF file): (1) a cover letter; (2) a curriculum vitae; and the names of 3 referees . Applications should be sent to the attention of:

Giannina Descalzi
Assistant Professor
Department of Biomedical Sciences
University of Guelph
Guelph, ON N1G 2W1
gdescalz@uoguelph.ca

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.

The University of Guelph resides on the ancestral lands of the Attawandaron people, and the treaty lands and territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit and we offer our respect to our Anishinaabe, Haudenosaunee and Métis neighbours as we strive to strengthen our relationships with them.

At the University of Guelph, fostering a culture of inclusion (https://uoguel.ph/ox2p9) is an institutional imperative. The University invites and encourages applications from all qualified individuals, including from groups that are traditionally underrepresented in employment, who may contribute to further diversification of our Institution.

Contact information

Giannina Descalzi
Assistant Professor
Department of Biomedical Sciences
University of Guelph
Guelph, ON N1G 2W1
gdescalz@uoguelph.ca

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Posting end date: 2024/12/01