Postdoctoral Scholar - Department of Biological Sciences

University of Calgary; Calgary; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institution in Calgary is seeking a Postdoctoral Scholar to engage in interdisciplinary neuroscience research. The successful candidate will explore genetic impacts of prenatal alcohol exposure. Strong background in molecular genetics and clinical experience is essential. The role includes participant recruitment, data analysis, and collaboration with labs and Indigenous communities. This is a full-time position with applications open until filled.

Qualifications

• PhD obtained within the last 0-36 months.
• Proven scientific productivity.
• Willingness to learn and accept new challenges.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.

Responsibilities

• Conduct recruitment and engagement of study participants.
• Report progress during regular lab meetings.
• Prepare manuscripts and present findings at conferences.

Skills

Molecular biology techniques

Communication skills

Organization skills

Problem-solving skills

Experience with clinical populations

Experience with neurodevelopmental disorders

Experience partnering with Indigenous communities

Software proficiency (Qualtrics, SPSS, etc.)

Education

PhD in neuroscience, molecular genetics, or related field

Tools

Qualtrics

Redcap

Canva

GraphPad

SPSS

R

Job description

Postdoctoral Scholar - Department of Biological Sciences

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Postdoctoral Scholar - Department of Biological Sciences

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Join to apply for the Postdoctoral Scholar - Department of Biological Sciences role at University of Calgary

Description

Postdoctoral Scholar - Biological Sciences

Description

Position Overview

The Department of Biological Sciences in the Faculty of Science invites applications for a Postdoctoral Scholar in neuroscience or a related field.

We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Scholar with a strong background in neuroscience, neurodevelopmental conditions, and genetics. This opportunity is available immediately and the successful candidate will play a leading role in interdisciplinary research aimed at determining the impact of prenatal alcohol exposure on genetic diseases. This will involve exploring outcomes in ongoing cohorts of individuals with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), utilizing existing biobank datasets, and screening for the interactive effects of alcohol exposure in genetic mutant rodent models.

The successful candidate will join Dr. Bodnar's Health Generations Research laboratory, which broadly examines how various exposures and experiences alter neurodevelopment and influence risk vs. resilience to health conditions, including mental health problems, over the lifespan. The research adopts a translational approach, including pre-clinical animal models and clinical studies, as well as Indigenous community partnerships.

The position is based at the University of Calgary (main campus), with regular travel (1-3 times/week) to the Child Development Centre (Alberta Children's Hospital).

Key Responsibilities

• Staying updated with scientific advances through literature reviews, meetings, and learning new techniques
• Recruitment and engagement of study participants, including community engagement
• Engaging professionally and respectfully with research participants (individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders) and maintaining confidentiality
• Conducting research interviews, including standardized assessments and health questionnaires
• Preparing manuscripts and presenting findings at conferences
• Engaging in knowledge translation in partnership with individuals with lived experience
• Collaborating with researchers and technical staff
• Mentoring graduate and undergraduate lab members
• Reporting progress during regular lab meetings

Qualifications/Requirements

• PhD in neuroscience, molecular genetics, or a related field obtained within the last 0-36 months
• Proven scientific productivity
• Experience with molecular biology techniques (e.g., ELISA, qPCR, next-generation sequencing)
• Excellent communication, organization, and problem-solving skills
• Experience working with clinical populations
• Strong written and verbal English skills
• Experience partnering with Indigenous communities is an asset
• Training in phlebotomy or medical field is an asset (not required)
• Proficiency with software like Qualtrics, Redcap, Canva, GraphPad, SPSS, R
• Experience working with neurodevelopmental disorders is an asset
• Willingness to learn and accept new challenges
• Ability to manage multiple priorities effectively

Application Process

Applications remain open until the position is filled. Please submit a single PDF containing:

• A cover letter outlining your interest and qualifications
• CV and publication list or link
• Contacts for three professional references

Send applications to: [email protected] with the subject "postdoc position application". Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.

The employment terms are governed by the UCalgary and PDAC Collective Agreement. More info on the Postdoctoral Scholar program at UCalgary is available on their Postdocs website.

Learn more about postdoctoral opportunities at UCalgary on their Postdoc Careers website.

About the University of Calgary

UCalgary is Canada's entrepreneurial university, located in a vibrant city. It is a top research university, founded in 1966, with 36,000 students. It emphasizes innovative learning, research, and entrepreneurial thinking. For more, visit ucalgary.ca.

About Calgary, Alberta

Calgary is known for being clean, livable, and economically strong. It is close to the Rocky Mountains and offers extensive urban pathways and bikeways. The city values community, business, and volunteerism.

The university has committed to Indigenous inclusion through its Indigenous Strategy, promoting a welcoming and culturally competent campus. We value diversity and are committed to equitable recruitment and support for all applicants, including those from underrepresented groups.

Additional Details

• Seniority level: Internship
• Employment type: Full-time
• Job functions: Research, Analysis, IT
• Industry: Higher Education

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