Postdoctoral Scholar Gene Regulation in Stem Cell Biology, Brain Development, and Aging

Description
Area :
Gene Regulation in Stem Cell Biology, Brain Development, and Aging

Duration :
Initial appointment of 1 year, with renewal contingent on funding.

Start Date :
Immediately available; start date negotiable.

Salary : $60,000 CAD per annum, plus University of Calgary Plan C health benefits.

The Department of Medical Genetics and Biochemistry & Molecular Biology in the Cumming School of Medicine at the University of Calgary is accepting applications for a Postdoctoral Scholar in Gene Regulation in Stem Cell Biology, Brain Development, and Aging.

The Yang Laboratory studies gene regulatory mechanisms that control neural stem cell behavior, neuronal function, and brain aging. We use an integrated approach combining mouse genetics, iPSC-based disease modeling, and functional genomics to investigate both fundamental biology and the molecular basis of rare neurodevelopmental disorders.

We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral scholar to join an intellectually stimulating and well-resourced environment. The position offers scientific independence: the successful candidate may pursue funded projects already underway in the lab or, in discussion with the PI, develop their own research direction aligned with the lab’s broader themes. Ready‑to‑execute projects are available for candidates who wish to establish productivity quickly, while the lab’s funding landscape supports exploratory directions for those with strong independent ideas.

Job Description
Responsibilities

Design and execute independent research projects within the lab’s thematic areas

Prepare manuscripts for peer‑reviewed publication; contribute to grant applications

Present findings at group meetings, departmental seminars, and national/international conferences

Mentor graduate and undergraduate students in experimental design and techniques

Collaborate with internal and external researchers; contribute to a collegial lab environment

What We Offer

A collaborative, well‑funded research program with access to state‑of‑the‑art core facilities (genomics, imaging, flow cytometry, animal models)

Active support for career development: conference travel, fellowship applications (CIHR, NSERC, Alberta Innovates), and manuscript writing

Mentorship tailored to the candidate’s career goals, whether academic, industry, or beyond

A stimulating intellectual environment within a growing department at a research‑intensive university.

Qualifications

PhD in cell/molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, neuroscience, or a closely related field (degree conferred within the past 5 years preferred)

Demonstrated research productivity: at least one first‑author peer‑reviewed publication

Strong hands‑on skills in molecular and cell biology (cell culture including iPSC/stem cells, CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, qPCR/RT-PCR, Western blotting)

Experience in RNA biology (e.g., splicing analysis, transcriptomic approaches)

Proficiency in fluorescence/confocal microscopy and image analysis

Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English

Ability to work independently, prioritize competing demands, and drive projects to completion

Experience with next‑generation sequencing library preparation and/or bioinformatic analysis

Background in mouse genetics, stereotaxic surgery, or in vivo neural circuit analysis

Familiarity with single‑cell transcriptomics or spatial transcriptomics platforms

Prior experience mentoring trainees

Application Details
Please submit a single PDF to  with the subject line “Postdoc Application” [Your Name].

The PDF should include

Cover letter (1–2 pages): describe your research background, specific interest in the lab’s work, and your career goals. Applicants are encouraged to briefly outline a research direction they would like to pursue

Curriculum vitae, including a full list of publications

Contact information for three references (letters will be requested for shortlisted candidates)

Review of applications is ongoing

The University of Calgary is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion; candidates from all backgrounds are welcome to apply.

As an equitable and inclusive employer, the University of Calgary recognizes that a diverse staff/faculty…