Fully-funded PhD positions – Life Sciences – University of Quebec at Trois-Rivieres (UQTR) – Canada.

Job Overview

Fully-funded PhD positions – Life Sciences

The Laboratory for Research on Stem Cell Regulation in the Department of Medical Biology at the University of Québec at Trois-Rivières (UQTR), directed by Dr Patrick Narbonne, is seeking highly-motivated PhD students to join his young and dynamic research team. His well-funded laboratory is dedicated to solving the cell and molecular mechanisms that regulate stem cell proliferation in vivo. The laboratory uses the simple nematode C. elegans, and more particularly, its germline stem cells, as a model system to efficiently solve this important biological question. Amongst other ongoing projects, we recently discovered in collaboration with the Kimble lab (University of Wisconsin) that surprisingly, germline stem cell proliferation is promoted by ERK/MAPK activity non-autonomously, from a neighboring tissue (Robinson-Thiewes et al. Cell Reports 35, 109162). However, we do not yet understand how ERK/MAPK controls stem cell proliferation from a distance, although we have several exciting hypotheses to test. As such, various projects are available, involving state-of-the-art techniques and instruments, including CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing, and equipment (microinjection, confocal microscopy, live imaging, etc.). Although there is a preference for candidates to join at the PhD level, highly-motivated individuals at other stages in their careers, such as postdocs, may also be considered.

The Narbonne laboratory is located at the heart of the green UQTR campus, close to all commodities. Trois-Rivières is a small, family-friendly city where the cost of living is very reasonable.

Requirements:

For these PhD scholarships, candidates are expected to demonstrate a genuine interest in the fundamental mechanisms regulating stem cell proliferation, to be hard-working and dedicated, and to take every action to ensure that the project moves forward. A significant contribution to a refereed publication (submitted or accepted) is considered an essential prerequisite.

Qualifications:

– A Master’s degree in the Life Sciences with a written thesis.
– Proven experience in basic cell and molecular laboratory techniques.
– Good spoken and written communication in French or English.
– Experience with C. elegans, genetics, CRISPR/Cas9, cloning techniques, bioinformatics and/or microscopy will be considered an asset.

Salary and appointment terms

Stipends will correspond to the national guidelines of 21 000 CAD/year at the PhD level. Initial appointments are for one year. Appointment extension will be subject to satisfactory progress and successful completion of a PhD exam.

The University of Québec at Trois-Rivières is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications form everyone.

Please send your application by email, in French or English, to Dr Patrick Narbonne (labo.narbonne@gmail.com), including all documents (cover letter, CV, 2 reference letters or contact details for 2 referees, reprints of refereed publications in .pdf format). Review of applications will begin on November 1st, 2021 and continue until suitable applicants are found.

Only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Possible start dates: January, May, or September 2022.

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