Postdoctoral Fellow Position in Neuronal Culture and Manipulation in Parkinson’s Disease Research

Department: Department of Biology
Location: University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
Supervisor: Dr. Travis Craddock

The Quantum Neurobiology Lab at the University of Waterloo invites applications for a highly motivated and skilled Postdoctoral Fellow (PDF) to establish, manage, and operate a neuronal culture facility for the study of Parkinson’s disease (PD). This position is part of a multidisciplinary effort to investigate the effects of chemical, magnetic field, and photonic manipulations on neuronal behavior, with a particular focus on unraveling the quantum biological mechanisms underlying neurodegeneration.

The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in developing and maintaining neuronal cultures, designing and conducting experiments, and analyzing data to explore novel therapeutic approaches for PD.

Key Responsibilities

• Laboratory Setup and Management:

• Establish and maintain a state-of-the-art neuronal culture facility.

• Develop protocols for culturing and maintaining primary neurons, stem-cell derived neurons, and other relevant neuronal models.

• Oversee day-to-day lab operations, equipment maintenance, and supply management.

• Experimental Design and Execution:

• Design and execute experiments to study neuronal behavior under the influence of chemical agents, magnetic fields, and light exposure.

• Implement advanced imaging techniques, electrophysiology, and other relevant methodologies to assess neuronal responses.

• Develop and refine protocols for optical, magnetic, and related manipulation techniques.

• Data Collection and Analysis:

• Perform quantitative and qualitative analyses of neuronal activity and survival.

• Utilize computational tools for data analysis, including signal processing and image analysis.

• Collaboration and Supervision:

• Work collaboratively with other members of the Quantum Neurobiology Lab and external collaborators.

• Mentor graduate and undergraduate students and provide guidance on lab techniques and experimental protocols.

• Manuscript Preparation and Grant Contributions:

• Prepare research findings for publication in high-impact peer-reviewed journals.

• Assist with grant writing and contribute to securing research funding.

Required Qualifications

• PhD in Neuroscience, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Bioengineering, or a related discipline.

• Extensive experience in primary neuronal culture, stem-cell derived neuronal models, or related systems.

• Strong background in neurophysiology, cellular signaling, and neuronal behavior analysis.

• Hands-on experience with one or more of the following:

• Optogenetics and/or photonic manipulation of neurons.

• Magnetogenetics or magnetic field exposure experiments.

• Chemical and pharmacological manipulation of neuronal cultures.

• Proficiency in imaging techniques such as confocal microscopy, or electrophysiology.

• Expertise in data analysis and statistical interpretation, with programming experience (e.g., Python, MATLAB, R) considered an asset.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of Parkinson’s disease models and related neurodegenerative conditions.

• Experience in working with quantum biological systems or familiarity with radical pair models and their implications in neurobiology.

• Strong publication record in relevant fields.

• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary research environment.

Essential Skills

1. Cell Culture Expertise: Proven ability to establish, maintain, and troubleshoot neuronal cultures.

2. Experimental Design: Ability to design, execute, and optimize complex experiments involving chemical, magnetic, and photonic manipulations.

3. Data Analysis and Visualization: Proficiency in analyzing and interpreting large datasets.

4. Microscopy and Imaging Techniques: Experience with confocal microscopy, fluorescence imaging, and related technologies.

5. Communication and Writing Skills: Strong scientific writing skills with a demonstrated track record of publications.

6. Project Management and Organization: Ability to manage multiple research projects efficiently.

7. Problem-Solving and Innovation: Strong analytical skills and creative problem-solving capabilities.

8. Collaborative Leadership: Willingness to mentor students and contribute to team-based research efforts.

Application Instructions

Interested candidates should submit the following materials:

• A cover letter outlining research experience, technical skills, and career goals.

• A detailed curriculum vitae (CV).

• Contact information for three academic or professional references.

Applications should be submitted as a single PDF file via the Contact page

The University of Waterloo is committed to diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals, including those from traditionally underrepresented groups.