The Plemel and Kerr Labs at the University of Alberta seek a highly motivated and skilled Postdoctoral Fellow to work on a research project on the immune contribution to neuropathic pain. The successful candidate will use single-cell RNA sequencing to define an immune signature of the pain state in mice and people. The candidate will work in an interdisciplinary research team focussing on pain, immunology, and MS to understand the initiation and chronification of pain. Dr. Plemel is a Canada Research Chair whose group studies how brain macrophages, called microglia, can promote regeneration and damage under different conditions. Dr. Kerr’s lab is aimed at addressing the mechanisms of chronic pain after injury or disease, with a major focus on chronic pain associated with Multiple Sclerosis.

Responsibilities:

-plan, direct, and conduct specialized research experiments to understand immunology in the context of neuropathic pain within human blood and animal models.

-Develop and optimize new single-cell transcriptomics to examine immune changes along the neuropathic pain axis.

-Collaborate with other members of the Plemel and Kerr labs to achieve research goals.

-Prepare manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals.

-Present research findings at national and international conferences.

Qualifications:

Qualification: Strong written and verbal skills in English are essential, as is the ability to work well in a team environment. We are looking for someone that is curious, perseverant, organized, and flexible, with the capacity to learn new approaches and analyze multidimensional data. Ph.D. in Cell Biology, Neuroscience, or Immunology. The University of Alberta is committed to an equitable, diverse, and inclusive workforce and encourages applications from all qualified individuals.

To apply, please submit a cover letter, CV, and contact information for three references to Dr. Jason Plemel at jplemel@ualberta.ca. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Inquire about positions available

The University of Alberta has outstanding research opportunities available.  Students can also enjoy the many sporting and cultural activities in the city of Edmonton. There are excellent skiing, hiking, cycling and other outdoor activities with the Rocky Mountains only a few hours away.

Candidates must be academically competitive and will be expected to apply for external funding. If interested in joining the lab, please contact Dr. Plemel or Dr. Kerr directly at jrplemel@ualberta.ca or bjkerr@ualberta.ca and provide the following information:
– A short cover letter explaining your interest in science
– Resume
– Transcript or listing of course grades (grad students only)