Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Translational Neuroscience

POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH FELLOW - TRANSLATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE

The Center for Applied Neurogenetics (“CAN”) (www.can.ubc.ca) at the University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada, seeks a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join our team studying the neurobiology / pathophysiology of genetic determinants of neurodegeneration. CAN is directed by Prof. Matthew Farrer.  The Centre provides well-equipped, modern facilities and the opportunity to learn/apply a variety of molecular, cellular and physiological neuroscience techniques. The overall aim of the neurogenetic and neuroscience teams is to provide insights for novel therapeutic development to slow and/or prevent progressive neurological disorders. 

This fellowship opportunity relates to novel discoveries of pathogenic mutations in VPS35, RME-8 and LRRK2 linked to late-onset, familial Parkinson’s disease (Zimprich A. et al., 2004; Vilarino-Guell C. et al., 2011, 2014). A variety of models and tools have been generated and tested, including human iPSCs and conditional cre-loxP transgenic mice (Beccano-Kelly DA et al., 2014a,b; Munsie LN et al., 2014; Volta M et al., 2017; Cataldi S et al., 2018). Successful applicants will have a prior knowledge of the molecular etiology of Parkinson’s disease and join a dedicated, experienced and highly motivated team of neurogeneticists and neurobiologists. The work is fast-paced and exciting, at the cutting edge of molecular insights into neurologic disease. This position is initially available for one year with the possibility of annual extensions.

CAN is located in the vibrant neuroscience research atmosphere of the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health at the University of British Columbia’s Point Grey Campus, situated within the temperate rain forest of Pacific Spirit Park. We are surrounded by beaches and mountains, and boast some of the worlds’ premier outdoor opportunities.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Applicants will have a recent PhD, MD or MD/PhD with less than two year's postdoctoral research experience in a field directly relevant to translational neuroscience, with a track record of successful publication. Consideration will given to applicants with prior experience in one or more of the following disciplines; electrophysiology (voltammetry), protein biochemistry, molecular biology, neurochemistry, rodent behavior and/or surgery. In addition, the successful applicant will either have or will develop:

• A knowledge of human molecular genetics, neurology and neuroscience
• Excellent written and communication skills including oral presentation at international conferences
• The ability to thrive in a high pressure, fast-paced and demanding team environment
• Drive and enthusiasm, to both lead and work as a member of a team
• A complete commitment to research
• Creativity, initiative and good judgment.

HOW TO APPLY

Please submit a full CV, three written references, and up to 3 representative publications to jobs@can.ubc.ca.

UBC hires on the basis of merit and is committed to employment equity. All qualified persons are encouraged to apply. We especially welcome applications from members of visible minority groups, women, Aboriginal persons, persons with disabilities, persons of minority sexual orientations and gender identities, and others with the skills and knowledge to engage productively with diverse communities. Canadians and permanent residents of Canada will be given priority.