Postdoctoral Fellow Position Full-time NEW

Postdoctoral Scholar Position 

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

Yang Laboratory – University of Calgary, Canada  |  yanglaboratory.ca 

Position Details 

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. 

Location:  Departments of Medical Genetics and Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada. 

Research Opportunity 

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. 

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. 

Qualifications 

Required: 

• 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. 

Assets: 

• 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. 

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. 

How to Apply 

Please submit a single PDF to [Please click the Apply button for the link or address] with the subject line “Postdoc Application – [Your Name].” The PDF should include: 

1. 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.
2. Curriculum vitae, including a full list of publications.
3. Contact information for three references (letters will be requested for shortlisted candidates).

Review of applications is ongoing. We encourage early submissions. The University of Calgary is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion; candidates from all backgrounds are welcome to apply. 

About the University of Calgary 

The University of Calgary is one of Canada’s leading research universities, consistently ranked among the top institutions in health sciences, natural sciences, and engineering. Home to over 30,000 students and 2,300 academic staff, it fosters a dynamic research ecosystem with strong ties to clinical, government, and industry partners. Postdoctoral scholars are supported through the UCalgary–PDAC Collective Agreement; for more information, visit research.ucalgary.ca/postdocs. 

About Calgary, Alberta 

Calgary is one of Canada’s most livable and fastest-growing cities, with a population exceeding 1.3 million. Situated at the gateway to the Canadian Rockies – Banff National Park and Lake Louise are less than 90 minutes away – the city offers exceptional outdoor recreation, a vibrant multicultural community, and a strong economy. Calgary consistently ranks among the world’s most livable cities and enjoys more sunshine hours per year than any other major Canadian city. 

We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted. 

Tagged as: Life Sciences