Assistant Professor in Computational Neuroethology

McGill University; Montreal; On-site; CAD 100,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

McGill University invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor in computational neuroethology with a target start date of August 1, 2027. The successful candidate will develop an innovative research program that integrates computational or theoretical approaches with modern systems neuroscience to address neural bases of naturalistic animal behavior.

The appointee will contribute to teaching in the Biology core curriculum, supervise graduate students, and collaborate with Mila and

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or equivalent degree in Biology or related discipline.
• Postdoctoral experience and a significant track record of research excellence demonstrated by publications.

Responsibilities

• Conduct an independent, externally funded research program.
• Teach in the Biology core curriculum and graduate courses.
• Supervise and mentor graduate students.

Skills

Computational neuroscience

Interdisciplinary collaboration

Teaching in undergrad courses

Education

Ph.D. or equivalent in Biology or related field

Postdoctoral experience

Job description

The Department of Biology at McGill University invites applications for a tenure-track position at the rank of Assistant Professor in computational neuroethology with a target start date of August 1, 2027.

The ideal candidate will develop an innovative, interdisciplinary research program that integrates computational or theoretical approaches with modern systems neuroscience to address fundamental questions on the neural basis of naturalistic animal behavior. We also welcome candidates whose research programs focus on the development and application of computational methods for the study of brain and behaviour through collaborations and secondary data.

McGill has a deep history and continued prominence in neuroscience, and the Biology Department is part of this expansive neuroscience community. In addition, the department has ties to the growing computational neuroscience community centered around the Montreal Institute for Learning Algorithms (MILA), a joint McGill and Université de Montréal initiative bringing together scientists focused on Artificial Intelligence. We offer access to state-of-the-art core facilities including a host of advanced microscopy resources (light sheet, super-resolution, and advanced confocal microscopy), next-generation sequencing, and animal facilities, among others. Overall, the department provides a unique and stimulating research environment that is highly conducive to collaboration and interdisciplinary approaches.

In addition to its research mission, the Department of Biology plays a key role in undergraduate education in the biological and biomedical sciences. Faculty will also have the opportunity to supervise and mentor graduate students.

About us

McGill University is a leading research university in Canada. Its downtown campus sits at the foot of Mont Royal, a large green space overlooking the heart of downtown Montréal. A UNESCO City of Design, Montréal is world-renowned for its high quality of life and arts, design, food, and festivals. Despite its global reputation, the city is one of the most affordable and livable large metropolitan areas in Canada and the US.

Job Duties

The successful applicant will be expected to conduct a rigorous program of independent, externally funded research. The successful applicant will also contribute to teaching in the Biology core curriculum, which includes foundational undergraduate courses in neurobiology and behavior, as well as courses offered through joint programs and at the graduate level. Preference will be given to applicants who can demonstrate a commitment to teaching a diverse student body.

Qualifications and Education Requirements

Applicants must possess a Ph.D. or equivalent degree in Biology or a related discipline, as well as postdoctoral experience and a significant track record of research excellence as demonstrated by scientific publications.

Faculty/Department/Unit: Science/Biology

Job Type: Tenure-track

Rank: Assistant Professor

Salary: Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Application deadline: To ensure full consideration, complete applications should be received by December 1, 2026, 11:59 pm. Please note that the Workday posting closes on December 2 at 12:00 am. Applications should be submitted by December 1, 2026 at 11:59 pm.

Contact

Enquiries should be directed to [e-mail] with "Computational Neuroethology Search" in the subject line.

Required Documents

• Persons wishing to be considered for this position should provide a one-page summary of the application package (briefly describing academic background, major research contributions, and teaching experience)
• A curriculum vitae (including a list of publications)
• A research statement including previous contributions and future plans, as well as any leaves contributing to career interruptions or slowdowns (maximum 3 pages)
• A statement of teaching philosophy and experience, including an account of a commitment to inclusive teaching, learning, and supervision (maximum 1 page), and PDF files of up to 3 major publications
• After submitting your application, you may be contacted to provide the name and email address of at least three referees, who can provide confidential letters to accompany your application

Before applying, please note that to work at McGill University, you must be both authorized to work in Canada and willing to work in the province of Quebec at the campus where the position is based / located.

McGill University is an English-language university where most teaching and research activities are conducted in the English language, thereby requiring English communication both verbally and in writing.

McGill University is committed to equity and diversity within its community and values academic rigour and excellence. We welcome and encourage applications from racialized persons/visible minorities, women, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, ethnic minorities, and persons of minority sexual orientations and gender identities, as well as from all qualified candidates with the skills and knowledge to engage productively with diverse communities. At McGill, research that reflects diverse intellectual traditions, methodologies, and modes of dissemination and translation is valued and encouraged. Candidates are invited to demonstrate their research impact both within and across academic disciplines and in other sectors, such as government, communities, or industry. McGill further recognizes and fairly considers the impact of leaves (e.g., family care or health-related) that may contribute to career interruptions or slowdowns. Candidates are encouraged to signal any leave that affected productivity, or that may have had an effect on their career path. This information will be considered to ensure the equitable assessment of the candidate’s record.

McGill implements an employment equity program and encourages members of designated equity groups to self-identify. It further seeks to ensure the equitable treatment and full inclusion of persons with disabilities by striving for the implementation of universal design principles transversally, across all facets of the University community, and through accommodation policies and procedures. Persons with disabilities who anticipate needing accommodations for any part of the application process may contact, in confidence, [e-mail].

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply; however, in accordance with Canadian immigration requirements, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.

Located in one of the world’s great multicultural and multilingual cities, McGill University is internationally recognized for its excellence as a leading institution of higher education and research. For nearly 200 years, through the work of dedicated people, McGill has been breaking ground in diverse fields and contributing solutions to some of the world’s most significant issues. McGillians are proud to be part of a community that is both global and local, inspired by challenge and committed to shaping a better future.

McGill received a Platinum STARS rating in sustainability, is among Canada’s greenest employers, and is a top Montreal Employer.