Research Assistant 2

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Position Summary:

This position leads the independent design and execution of in vitro studies using human iPSC-derived neuronal models to support translational research in neurodegenerative disease. This role requires advanced expertise in cell and molecular biology, assay development, and therapeutic screening. The successful candidate will be responsible for driving ASO therapeutic development projects, including candidate design, screening, and delivery system evaluation, and will contribute to experimental strategy, data interpretation, and laboratory mentorship.

Key Responsibilities

• Independently design, optimize, and execute cell-based and molecular assays to support translational research programs
• Develop and characterize human iPSC-derived neuronal models for disease modeling
• Lead the design, screening, and efficacy evaluation of antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) candidates for patient-specific applications
• Develop and test lipid nanoparticle (LNP) and other delivery approaches for nucleic acid therapeutics
• Conduct protein expression and gene analysis (Western blot, qPCR, immunofluorescence) to characterize cellular phenotypes and therapeutic responses
• Establish robust, reproducible assay conditions; troubleshoot experimental challenges and optimize protocols
• Analyze and interpret complex datasets; prepare figures and written summaries for publications and grant proposals
• Train and mentor junior researchers, graduate students, and technical staff
• Contribute to the development of standard operating procedures (SOPs) and ensure quality documentation

Minimum Qualifications:

• Master's in cell biology, molecular biology, neuroscience, or a related discipline
• Minimum 5 years of research experience (postdoctoral training included) in an academic or industry environment
• Demonstrated expertise with human iPSC culture, neuronal differentiation, and in vitro disease modeling
• Strong publication record demonstrating independent research capability
• Extensive experience with molecular and protein analysis techniques (qPCR, Western blot, immunofluorescence, co-immunoprecipitation)
• Proven ability to lead projects, analyze data, and contribute to experimental design
• Experience supervising or training students and junior researchers
• French and English language skills (spoken and written)

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with ASO therapeutic design, screening, and in vitro efficacy evaluation
• Familiarity with lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulation and testing
• Experience processing patient-derived primary samples for downstream cellular and molecular applications
• Knowledge of neurodegenerative disease biology

This position is covered by the AMURE Collective Agreement: https://www.mcgill.ca/hr/files/hr/2023-2027_collective_agreement_amure_ras_final_-_with_signatures_-_for_printing_cover_page_reviewed.pdf

Knowledge of French and English:McGill University is an English-language university where day to day duties may require English communication both verbally and in writing. The level of English required for this position has been assessed at a level # 4 on a scale of 0-4.

Before applying, please note that to work at McGill University, you must be both authorized to work in Canada and willing to work in the province of Quebec at the campus where the position is based / located.

McGill University is an English-language university where most teaching and research activities are conducted in the English language, thereby requiring English communication both verbally and in writing.

Hourly Salary:

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This position is covered by the Association of McGill University ResearchEmployees (AMURE) collective agreement.

McGill University hires on the basis of merit and is strongly committed to equity and diversity within its community. We welcome applications from racialized persons/visible minorities, women, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, ethnic minorities, and persons of minority sexual orientations and gender identities, as well as from all qualified candidates with the skills and knowledge to productively engage with diverse communities. McGill implements an employment equity program and encourages members of designated groups to self-identify. Persons with disabilities who anticipate needing accommodations for any part of the application process may contact, in confidence,accessibilityrequest.hr@mcgill.ca.