Research Associate in 3D Human Tissue Bioprinting for Modeling Neurodegenerative Disorders

Research Associate in 3D Human Tissue Bioprinting for Modeling Neurodegenerative Disorders

Situated at the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health at the University of British Columbia, the Post-Doctoral candidate will develop/design, implement and publish research studies related to the cellular processes associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and frontotemporal dementia. Specifically, the position involves maintaining and advancing a robust protocol for 3D bioprinting of iPSC derived neurons, astrocytes, and microglia to study the pathophysiology of AD and FTD in a 3D environment. In addition, methods of research including but not limited to: human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC), cerebral organoids, CRISPR gene editing, transfections, imaging techniques, electrophysiology and biochemical/molecular biology techniques. The candidate will have a strong teaching role for graduate, undergraduate and co-op students.

The position requires a strong research background in neuroscience and neuroscience techniques including iPSCs generation, differentiation, and maintenance, tissue culture, and confocal imaging. The candidate must have a PhD, and at least 2 years of post-doctoral experience in advanced 3D bioprinting of hiPSC neurons using an extrusion-based bioprinter. The candidate must further have advanced knowledge of bioink preparations, including those based on collagen.

The successful candidate will work under the supervision of Professor Haakon Nygaard in the department of Neurology in the Faculty of Medicine.

Responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

• 3D bioprinting of iPSC-derived tissues
• Design and implement research studies and related programs, including planning, managing, producing and analyzing the data. The candidate is expected to lead these efforts.
• Communicate with wet lab scientists in the day-to-day activities including but not limited to the data collection, quality control, data cleaning, data analysis, and presentation.
• Extensive use of induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cell types in experiments
• Histology, biochemical analysis, -omics, and electrophysiology experiments of iPSC-derived tissues
• Prepare manuscripts and oversee submission
• Lead grant applications in the field of neurosciences
• Maintain safe and clean lab spaces used
• Mentor and teach graduate, undergraduate and Co-op students

  Consequence of Error

  The position requires research experience, excellent communication skills, tact, judgment, and discretion in working with various senior professionals and collaborating with internal and external agencies. Errors in decision making may compromise the reputation of the PI's, the research team, and their collaborators, and funding.

  Requirements

  PhD in the field of neuroscience or related field, and at least 2 years of post-doctoral training in hiPSC 3D extrusion-based bioprinting, Proven skills using hiPSCs studying the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative or other CNS disorders. Additionally, strong analysis skills, ability to work professionally with colleagues, donors, and staff, and compliance with approved procedures and ethics regulations, publications in the area are an asset.