Graduate Student Jobs

We are inviting applications for graduate students (Master’s or PhD) and postdoctoral fellows in neuroscience at the University of Saskatchewan (Saskatoon, Saskatchewan).

Our Research:

The Botterill laboratory has two major research pillars, including a basic science pillar focused on studying the cells and circuits that support learning, memory, and affective behaviours. Currently, our focus is on the dentate gyrus and hilar mossy cells and their roles in diverse hippocampal functions and behaviors. We are also recruiting students and/or postdoctoral fellows for our research program on the neurobiology of temporal lobe epilepsy. Our epilepsy-related projects are focused on investigating and/or manipulating hippocampal circuits that contribute to seizures (e.g., mossy cells, granule cells). We also have projects that will evaluate the role of the endocannabinoid system in seizures, and screen novel therapeutics for anti-seizure efficacy in mouse models of epilepsy.

Methods:

1. Mouse stereotaxic surgery for injections of adeno-associated viruses (AAV), electrode recording assemblies, optic fibers, and cannulae for drug infusions, etc.
2. Viral vector-based tools (optogenetics, DREADDs, fiber photometry)
3. Mouse models of epilepsy (pilocarpine, kainic acid)
4. 24/7 video electroencephalography (EEG) recordings in freely behaving mice
5. Slice electrophysiology (whole cell patch clamp & extracellular field recordings)
6. Mouse behavioural testing
7. Behavioural pharmacology
8. Biochemistry
9. Epifluorescence and confocal microscopy
10. We are also in the process of establishing a collaborative project with the Saskatchewan Epilepsy Project to evaluate human EEG and resected brain tissue from patients with temporal lobe epilepsy. These projects are anticipated to begin within the next year.

Eligibility requirements:

• The ideal candidate will have experience with AAV injections, in vivo optogenetics, slice electrophysiology, and/or video EEG data collection & analysis.
• Experience in rodent handling / behavioural neuroscience is preferred.
• Postdoctoral applicants must demonstrate a track record in basic epilepsy research, including multiple peer-reviewed publications.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Interest in behavioural neuroscience and/or epilepsy research
• Strong academic record

Funding:

Successful candidates will receive stipends commensurate with the amounts set forth by the Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology in the College of Medicine. Candidates will be expected to apply to the College of Medicine’s Graduate Student Award (CoMGrad), Tri-council competitions (e.g., NSERC or CIHR), and any relevant granting agencies.

Additional information:

Google Scholar Publications:https://scholar.google.ca/citations?hl=en&user=VL_1ODIAAAAJ

Botterill Laboratory Website:https://research-groups.usask.ca/botterillneurolab/index.php

Anatomy, Physiology, & Pharmacology website (for program details and tuition costs):

https://grad.usask.ca/programs/anatomy-physiology-pharmacology.php

Contact information

We welcome applications from qualified candidates and strongly encourage applications from individuals belonging to groups that have been traditionally underrepresented in the sciences. Applications will be reviewed until the positions are filled.

Please contact Justin Botterill ([email protected]) with the following information:

1. A brief statement of research interests and goals
2. A copy of your curriculum vitae (CV) with at least 2 references.
3. A copy of your unofficial transcripts.
4. Please indicate whether you are a Canadian Citizen or a permanent resident of Canada.