PhD & MSc Positions in Molecular Neuroscience – Unlocking the Genetic and Metabolic Roots of Epilepsy – CERVO Brain Research Centre, Université Laval

Are you fascinated by how genetic mutations and metabolic pathways shape brain function? Do you want to be part of groundbreaking research at the intersection of molecular neuroscience, genetics, and metabolism?

The Dutchak Lab at CERVO Brain Research Center, Université Laval (Quebec City, Canada) is seeking highly motivated MSc and PhD candidates to join our CIHR-funded research team. Our mission: to uncover how nutrient signaling pathways, particularly GATOR1-mTORC1, influence neurodevelopment and seizure formation in epilepsy and autism.

Why Join Us?

🔬 Work on cutting-edge projects exploring:

  1. Amino acid homeostasis and its role in brain function
  2. Metabolic network dysfunctions contributing to epilepsy
  3. Pharmacological and nutritional therapeutic strategies for epilepsy treatment

🧠 Be part of an interdisciplinary team tackling big questions in neuroscience, biochemistry, and molecular biology
📍 Study in Quebec City, home to a vibrant research environment at CERVO Brain Research Center
💡 Gain hands-on experience with advanced biochemistry, genetic, and imaging techniques

Who Should Apply?
We welcome applicants with a strong background in molecular biology, neuroscience, biochemistry, or genetics. Eligible candidates can enroll in Neuroscience, Biochemistry, or Cellular and Molecular Biology graduate programs at Université Laval.

How to Apply
Send your CV, transcripts, cover letter (research interests & career goals), and two reference contacts to Dr. Paul Dutchak at paul.dutchak.1@ulaval.ca

🚀 Take your next step in neuroscience research—apply today!

PhD student positions: raphe nuclei neuromodulatory circuits in sleep regulation, memory and stress – Université de Montréal

Two PhD positions are available in the laboratory of Dr Bénédicte Amilhon at the CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, Montréal (QC) Canada

(https://research.chusj.org/en/Research/Research-Axes/Brain-and-Child-Development-Axis).

The Amilhon lab studies multiple pathways arising from the raphe nuclei, including serotonergic and glutamatergic pathways to the hippocampus, septum and other brain regions. Ongoing projects investigate the roles of these pathways in modulating sleep-wake stages, emotion-related behaviors (anxiety, fear) and memory consolidation. We use multidisciplinary neuroscience approaches including optogenetics, calcium imaging, fiber photometry, in vitro and in vivo electrophysiology and behavioral studies.
Highly motivated applicants must hold a MSc degree in Neuroscience or related fields. Skills in mouse brain surgery, in vivo electrophysiology recordings and computer programming/analysis are an advantage.

Applicants are required to send a cover letter detailing their trajectory, interests in neuroscience and motivation for the proposed PhD area, a CV, 2-3 reference contacts and past degree transcripts to the following address: benedicte.amilhon@umontreal.ca. Please specify where you have found the job post.

 Contact information benedicte.amilhon@umontreal.ca

 Posting end date 2025/03/31

Assistant or Associate Professor in Neuroendocrinology – University of Guelph

The Department of Biomedical Sciences at the University of Guelph invites applications for a tenure-track position as an Assistant or Associate Professor.
The Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College (OVC), University of Guelph is seeking applications to fill a tenure-track faculty position in Neuroendocrinology. This position will add capacity to our strength in Neuroscience at the Ontario Veterinary College and University of Guelph.

Applicants must have a PhD degree and a minimum of 2 years of postdoctoral experience. The successful candidate will have potential for developing an externally funded biomedical research program, as evidenced by a record of publication in areas which could contribute to the department’s existing areas of strength. The successful candidate will be expected to acquire sufficient funds to support an independent research program and the training of graduate students at the MSc and PhD level. The successful candidate will also be expected to contribute to development of a new graduate course in Translational Medicine and teach at the graduate and undergraduate level in the area of endocrinology and general physiology in the Biomedical Science and/or Neuroscience Majors, or the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM). Teaching experience or interest in teaching in these areas are considered an asset.

The Department of Biomedical Sciences is responsible for delivering professional and specialist undergraduate education, and research training. In addition to graduate thesis-based MSc and PhD programs in each of the departmental disciplines, the Department offers course-based Masters, and courses in the BSc and DVM programs. A large component of the research agenda within the Department of Biomedical Sciences is in translating fundamental research into practical applications to enhance human and/or animal health, with expertise in Neuroscience, Reproductive Biology and Development, Cardiovascular Physiology, Pharmacology and Toxicology, Cancer and Cell Biology and Stem cell and Regenerative Medicine. Several faculty members in the Department hold leadership roles in the Centre for Cardiovascular Investigations (CCVI), the Bench to Bedside Institute for Translational Health Research and Innovation, the One Health Institute and an emerging center in Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine.

In the Department of Biomedical Sciences, we value diversity and inclusivity because we know that diversity in experiences and perspectives is vital to advancing innovation, critical thinking, complex problem solving, and the creation of a modern, representative academic community. The Department actively fosters a culture that is positive, collegial, and respectful of all members, and in which wellness and healthy work-life balance are valued along with (and indeed, contribute to) excellence in research and teaching. We encourage you to view the Department’s EDI statement. (https://ovc.uoguelph.ca/biomedical-sciences/)

The University of Guelph is the third largest employer in Guelph, a city of over 144,000 people, located about an hour drive west of Toronto, Ontario. University of Guelph is a top-ranked comprehensive university in Canada with an enrolment of more than 30,000 undergraduate and graduate students across more than 40 academic units. The University is known for its commitment to student learning,

innovative research, and collaboration with world-class partners. It is a unique place, with transformative research and teaching and a distinctive campus culture. People who learn and work here are shaped and inspired by a shared purpose: To Improve Life. Reflecting that shared purpose in every experience connected to our university positions us to create positive change, here and around the world. Our University community shares a profound sense of social responsibility, a drive for international development, and an obligation to address global issues.

Application Process

If you are a current employee of the University of Guelph you must apply on the internal Career Page to be considered as an internal applicant.

Assessment of applications will begin on March 26, 2025 and will continue until the positions are filled.

Interested applicants should submit the following materials (preferably as a single PDF file) through the University of Guelph Careers portal (https://careers.uoguelph.ca/):

(1) a cover letter;

(2) a curriculum vitae;

(3) research statement;

(4) teaching statement;

(5) equity, diversity and inclusion statement,

(6) names and contact information of three references.

The research statement (2 pages max) should present a vision of the long-term goals of the research program as well as several short-term goals (e.g., 1-2 examples of graduate students’ projects that could be completed within a five-year time frame). The teaching/mentorship statement (2 pages max) should describe an overall teaching and mentorship philosophy, provide examples of specific teaching strategies that have been used effectively in previous courses, summarize potential teaching contributions in the department, and include examples of graduate student mentorship. The diversity statement (1 page max) should describe the strategies you plan to use to ensure your research, teaching, and mentorship activities provide equitable opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds and to foster a welcoming and inclusive environment in your courses and research group.

APPLY ONLINE – Assistant or Associate Professor in Neuroendocrinology

This position is represented by the University of Guelph Faculty Association (UGFA).

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

The University recognizes that applicants may have had obligations outside of work that have negatively impacted their record of achievements (e.g., parental, elder care, and/or medical). You are not required to disclose these obligations in the hiring process. If you choose to do so, the University will ensure that these obligations do not negatively impact the assessment of your qualifications for the position.

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.


Contact information

https://careers.uoguelph.ca/job/Guelph-Assistant-or-Associate-Professor-in-Neuroendocrinology%E2%80%8B-ON-N1G-2W1/729348447

Download the advertisement as a PDF

Posting end date 2025/03/26

Postdoctoral positions: neural circuits underlying motor skill acquisition – Chen lab – University of Ottawa

The Chen Lab at the Brain and Mind Research Institute, University of Ottawa is seeking candidates for two postdoctoral positions in molecular/system neuroscience.
The Chen lab is specialized in combining chronic in vivo imaging (two-photon microscopy, fiber photometry, GRIN lens imaging) with genetic and molecular approaches to dissect how cell type- and projection-specific plasticity orchestrate long-lasting structural and functional reorganization of the brain’s circuitry in normal and disease brains (Yin et al., Nature Neuroscience 2021; Lee et al., eLife 2022; Yang et al., Neuron 2022).
https://www.schenlabuottawa.com/

Key Responsibilities:

  • Lead a project that identifies the roles of specialized gene expression programs in distinct excitatory and inhibitory neuron subtypes during motor learning.
  • Utilize in vivo imaging techniques to monitor neural activity in cortical and/or subcortical regions
  • Analyze data from molecular, genetic, and behavioral experiments.
  • Collaborate with lab members and interdisciplinary teams within uOttawa’s growing neuroscience community.

Qualifications:

  • PhD in neuroscience or a related field.
  • Experience with molecular biology, RNAseq, and mouse behavior
  • Experience with coding is an asset (e.g., Python, MATLAB).
  • A strong track record with neuroscience research in peer-reviewed journals.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.

The researcher will join uOttawa’s Brain and Mind Research Institute (Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine; Faculty of Medicine). The neuroscience community is fast expanding, highly dynamic and offers a rich array of collaborative opportunities. For more information about the Brain and Mind Research Institute, visit: https://www.uottawa.ca/research-innovation/brain

Ottawa, the capital of Canada, is a green, vibrant, multi-cultural city that offers the highest standard of living in the country and ranks second worldwide for quality of life (Numbeo index, 2015). The city features numerous parks, including the UNESCO World Heritage Rideau Canal and is surrounded by an extensive greenbelt. This bilingual, culturally-rich city lies at the border of Quebec and Ontario and is within driving distance of Montréal and Toronto.
Interested candidates should submit electronically as a single PDF file to Dr. Simon Chen at schen2@uottawa.ca. Applications will be considered until a suitable candidate is found.

Please include:

  • A personal statement describing research interests, experience, and goals (<2 pages)
  • A complete curriculum vitae
  • Names and contact information of three references

Contact information

Dr. Simon Chen
schen2@uottawa.ca

Postdoctoral position in Neuroimmunology – Mccauley lab – University of Alberta

The Macauley lab is accepting applications for a Postdoctoral fellow or Research Associate in the area of neuroimmunology. Research in the lab focuses on the role of Siglec family of immunomodulatory glycan-binding receptors in human health and disease. The lab is located in the Gunning/Lemieux Chemistry center at University of Alberta and is part of the Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute (NHMI) and Alberta Glycomics Institute (GIA). Additionally, we are strongly connected to the Canadian Glycomics Network (GlycoNet), and strong collaboration with experts in studying microglia (Drs. Plemel, Voronova, Sipione), biochemistry of brain in health disease (Drs. Julien, Sim), and animal behavior (Dr. Tan).

Working within a highly interdisciplinary environment, the fellow will lead projects related to the role of an Alzheimer’s disease susceptibility factor, CD33, in disease pathogenesis, as well as development of novel CD33-based therapeutics in this context (PMID:35940942). Transgenic models (PMID:33766097, PMID:31815204, PMID: 38802940), as well as cell models combined with biochemical tools (PMID:34517042) are readily available in our laboratory for working on this exciting project that is closely connected to human disease. Funding through multiple sources – National, Societal, and Industry-sponsorship – is in place to advance our goal of understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which Siglecs impact the function of microglia in the brain.

The position requires a Ph.D. in one of the following disciplines: neurobiology, immunology, chemical biology, biochemistry, or other related fields. Candidates should have a record of completed graduate research that can be directly applied to the field of interest described above. Prior experience with transgenic mouse models of neurodegeneration, including genetics/genotyping, handling, cell culture, microscopy (including immunohistochemical techniques) and biochemical techniques are highly desirable. The ideal candidate must demonstrate excellent laboratory skills, independence, and resourcefulness. Candidates must possess strong communication and organizational skills manifested with proven track records including peer-reviewed publications. The position will be appointed at the level that is commensurate with the education and experience of the individual candidate and is for a period of one year with the possibility of renewal.

We are committed to an equitable, diverse, and inclusive workforce, and therefore welcome applications from all qualified persons. Please email your CV and a brief cover letter to Dr. Macauley (macauley@ualberta) along with the names of 3 potential references.

Contact information

Matthew Macauley (macauley@ualberta.ca )

Posting end date 2025/03/15

Principal Investigator in neurodevelopment/Assistant Professor – CHU Sainte-Justine Azrieli Research Centre, Université de Montréal

The CHU Sainte-Justine Azrieli Research Centre (CHUSJ-ARC), in partnership with the Department of Neurosciences of the Université de Montréal (UdeM; Montreal, Quebec, Canada), is seeking applicants for a principal investigator position at the rank of Research Assistant Professor in the field of neurobiology, with a focus on linking neurodevelopment to neural circuit function and dysfunction.

CHUSJ-ARC and UdeM are committed to developing world-class expertise in developmental neurosciences. The new principal investigator will play a pivotal role in complementing the research strengths of CHUSJ-ARC in this area. With clinical programs specialized in neurodevelopmental disorders, including intellectual disabilities, autism, and epilepsy, CHUSJ has identified the study of the mechanisms leading to neurodevelopmental diseases as a priority and has made substantial investments to support large initiatives and institutional platforms for the study of these disorders. Its “Brain and Child Development” research axis assembles experts studying cellular and network mechanisms underlying normal behavior, learning, and cortical plasticity, as well as the biological bases of epilepsy, intellectual disability, autism, and CNS malformations.

We are seeking an outstanding scientist to establish and build an internationally competitive program in the areas of neurodevelopment using novel, cutting-edge approaches. The applicant’s research program should address fundamental biological questions relevant to developmental brain disorders at the circuit, cellular, or molecular levels, and complement and/or extend the CHUSJ-ARC and Department’s existing research strengths in nervous system development and neurodevelopmental disorders. We are interested in all aspects of neurodevelopment, ranging from the molecular regulation of early development to probing synaptic and network functions in vivo.

The candidate will have the opportunity to collaborate with other research groups within the network of the Faculty of Medicine and the larger Montreal neurosciences community. Montreal has one of the largest neuroscience communities in North America and is a vibrant, international, and welcoming city full of “joie de vivre,” with great food, diverse and creative musical and cultural scenes, and inspiring outdoor activities.

We expect appointees to conduct vigorous independent research and to participate in undergraduate and graduate teaching and training.

Applicants must hold a Ph.D. degree, with postdoctoral experience and a strong publication record. Candidates will be expected to develop an innovative, internationally recognized, externally funded research program and to contribute to teaching and to the academic life of the CHUSJ and UdeM.

Applications must be submitted electronically atannie.theoret.hsj@ssss.gouv.qc.ca . Applications received by February 15, 2025 will be given priority consideration, but the position will remain open until filled. Applications should include a cover letter, curriculum vitae and a statement of research interests (3-page limit). Applicants will also need to give the name of three references that can be contacted by UdeM and CHUSJ-ARC.

About the CHU Saint-Justine Azrieli Research Centre

CHUSJ is the largest mother-child center in Canada. With more than 1,400 researchers, students and employees, the dynamic and cutting-edge research performed at CHUSJ-ARC aims at deciphering the mechanisms underlying disease as well as developing new diagnostic, therapeutic and preventive tools to continually improve quality of life and care for children and their mother. For more information, please visit us athttp://recherche.chusj.org/en/Home

About Université de Montréal

The Université de Montréal is one of the leading research universities in Canada. Together with its two affiliated schools, HEC Montréal and École Polytechnique, it constitutes one of the largest centres of higher education in North America. For more information, please visit www.umontreal.ca.

About Faculty of Medicine

An internationally renowned institution the Faculty of Medicine has the threefold mission of education, research and the improvement of health in the areas of clinical sciences, basic sciences and health sciences. It has 16 departments, two schools and more than 700 professors (excluding clinical professors), serving more than 6000 students. A third of the physicians in Québec and a large number of health professionals in the province have been trained at the Université de Montréal’s Faculty of Medicine.

Contact information

Mrs. Annie Théoret
e-mail: annie.theoret.hsj@ssss.gouv.qc.ca

Mouse functional neurogenetics of rare diseases – Université de Montréal

Project Overview

Since 2020, we have collaborated with a patient association with whom we have discovered new genetic variations in a gene that had never before been implicated in neurological diseases. We have access to patient cells and have generated numerous lossof- function models in this gene: KO mouse model, humanized mouse model, conditional KO mouse model, KO zebrafish models, KO cell lines, iPSC-KO… Our recent work has validated the pathogenicity of patient variants and, more broadly, the loss of function of this gene in neurodevelopmental diseases. Over the next few years, we aim to decipher the yet unknown function of this gene during neurodevelopment and central nervous system function. The project will focus on the analysis of neurodevelopment in different conditional KO mouse models. The project will also investigate how perturbations in this gene can affect the function of the central nervous system, particularly causing seizures.

Expertise

We are looking to recruit a passionate post-doctoral fellow with extensive expertise in the study of neurodevelopment in mice and in-depth knowledge of neurogenesis. Expertise in molecular biology analytical techniques applied to mice is required. Expertise in behavioural analysis and EEG recording in mice is a plus. Expertise in bioinformatics data

Why joining?

  • All models are already generated
  • Working on an entirely new subject with a gene whose function is totally unknown
  • Project funded for 3 years
  • Participation in one international congress per year to present research data
  • A young, dynamic lab autonomy to thrive
  • A vast network of collaborators (clinicians, geneticists, researchers)
  • Modern premises in the heart of downtown Montreal

Our Lab

Our laboratory is interested in dissecting the molecular mechanisms underlying rare neurological diseases. We take advantage of the ease of use of the zebrafish model, but also combine it with mouse models and human cells.

Find out more about our lab: https://www.samlab.ca/

  • Provincial tax exemption with post-doc status at Université de Montréal
  • Technical support from more than 19 platforms at the CRCHUM

Contact information Send a cover letter, CV and at least two letters of recommendation to eric.samarut@umontreal.ca

There are no closing dates for applications, and analysis of the files may stop as soon as a candidate has been selected.

Postdoctoral Fellowship in Neuroimmunology and Neurodevelopment – Dong and Howland Laboratories, University of Saskatchewan

Applications are being considered for a new postdoctoral fellow who will work in the laboratories of Drs. Jeff Dong and John Howland at the University of Saskatchewan. The successful applicant will lead two collaborative projects with funding secured from CIHR and the US Department of Defense: 1) the roles of oxidized phosphatidylcholines in brain aging and multiple sclerosis, and 2) the long-term effects of gestational cannabis exposure on offspring brain and behavioural development. The ideal applicant will have experience with single cell and/or spatial transcriptomic analysis as well as proficiency in molecular biology and/or behavioural neuroscience techniques. Applicants are expected to have strong written and oral communication skills, as evidenced by their academic record or previous research experience. We encourage applications from individuals that have been traditionally under-represented in the life sciences. Salary will be commensurate with past experience and external scholarships/awards.

Please contact Jeff Dong (jeff.dong@usask.ca) and John Howland (john.howland@usask.ca) with:

1) a brief statement of research interests, and

2) a CV with the names of at least two references.

The review of applications will begin in early fall, 2024.

MSc or PhD student: Vascular repair mechanisms following traumatic brain injury – University of Manitoba

Project description:

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) causes the loss of vascular cells and dysfunctional blood flow, which limits oxygen and nutrient support to the tissue. This exacerbates cell death and prevents the activation of neurorepair mechanisms involving neural stem cells (NSCs). Strategies to improve cerebral vascular repair have the potential to promote successful neuro-regeneration and improve the lives of TBI patients. Currently, thereI is a limited understanding of how cerebral blood flow and NSC activation are related and can be enhanced to facilitate repair.

The Lindsey and Stobart labs have started a collaboration using an adult zebrafish model to investigate how new blood vessels and blood hemodynamics may direct NSC-driven regeneration after TBI. This is an exciting opportunity to learn diverse techniques that bring together expertise from both labs. Students will learn:

  • Zebrafish neuroscience and the TBI model
  • In vivo two-photon microscopy of blood flow
  • Histological techniques (immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization)
  • FACS and flow cytometry
  • Proteomics analysis
  • Computer image analysis

We are looking for motivated candidates who hold a B.Sc. or MSc. in biology or related discipline. They must be interested in neurobiology, have good problem solving skills, and can work independently. Previous experience with zebrafish is beneficial.

Successful candidates will be admitted to the graduate program through the Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science at the University of Manitoba where they are expected to complete some course work in addition to research experiments. All students will be paid a stipend to cover tuition and living expenses. If the student is successful in the first year of the program, there will be an opportunity to transition directly to the PhD program. International students who are from countries where the primary language is not English – regardless of the language of their instruction – will also require a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 100 out of 120 (equivalent to a TOEFL CBT of 250 out of 300, a TOEFL PBT of 600 out of 677, or an IELTS score of 7.5 out of 9.0).

Please submit a letter with statement of research interests, CV including research experience, official transcripts and contact details for 2 references by email. Contact information Please send your documents to:

Dr. Benjamin Lindsey
Assistant Professor
Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science
University of Manitoba
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Canada
Benjamin.lindsey@umanitoba.ca

OR

Dr. Jill Stobart
Assistant Professor
College of Pharmacy
University of Manitoba
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Canada
jillian.stobart@umanitoba.ca
www.stobartlab.com

Post-doctoral or PhD Position for the development of a neuroprosthesis that supports the production of complex movements – Université de Montréal

A PhD position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Numa Dancause at the Université de Montréal, Department of Neurosciences. Our group investigates the mechanisms underlying movement control, neural plasticity involved in motor recovery post-brain injury, and the effects of neuromodulation techniques such as repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) on the brain. We employ rodent and macaque monkey models, and benefit from collaborations with human-focused research groups through our Canadian platform Can-Stim. Here is a full list of our published work.

The project: The PhD candidate will develop a flexible neuroprosthesis for the motor cortex capable of supporting the production of complex movements. This project is part of a multidisciplinary collaborative effort with the labs of Dr Benoit Gosselin (Université Laval), Guillaume Lajoie (UdeM) and Marco Bonizzato (Polytechnique). It integrates the use of machine-learning approaches to optimize neurostimulation, automation of behavioral data collection and wireless stimulation and electrophysiological data recording technologies. The project will involve:

  • Help design the neuromodulation platform, integrate the different components and improve performance
  • Conducting neural recordings and stimulation in behaving monkeys.
  • Programming in MATLAB or Python for data analyse
  • Adapt and improve the machine-learning algorithm to the new platform
  • Collaborating with interdisciplinary neuroscience, engineering, applied maths and data science, computational and clinical rehabilitation teams.
    Your profile:
  • Training in neuroscience, electrical or biomedical engineering or a related field.
  • Strong programming skills, particularly in MATLAB or Python for analyses of neural signals are strong assets
  • Previous experience with animal models using electrophysiological techniques AND/OR neuromodulation techniques
  • Background knowledge in electronics and experience in signal processing.
  • Background knowledge of machine-learning, AI, and computational neuroscience.
  • Motivation to pursue innovative research in biomedical engineering and motor rehabilitation.
  • Excellent communication skills and ability to work collaboratively in a research team.
  • Different roles in the project, with varying degrees of experimental versus theoretical/algorithmic focus are possible. Candidates with diverse skills and career objectives will be considered.

Why UdeM?: The Université de Montréal offers a stimulating research environment with access to state-of-the-art facilities and international collaborations. Montréal is renowned for its vibrant neuroscience community. The lab is part of multiple research groups with research interest in fundamental biomedical research (Centre d’innovation biomédicale; CIB), bridging neurosciences and artificial intelligence (Union Neurosciences et Intelligence Artificielle – Québec; UNIQUE), and brain function and learning (Centre Interdisciplinaire de Recherche sur le Cerveau et l’Apprentissage; CIRCA).

Application Process: Interested candidates should submit a cover letter outlining their research interests and career goals, a detailed CV, academic transcripts, and contact information for two references to Numa.Dancause@umontreal.ca.

Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled.

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