Internships, M.Sc., Ph.D. and PDF offers

Lead Researcher(s):

Marie-Josée Hébert, MD, FRCPC

• Full Professor, Department of Medicine, Université de Montréal
• Researcher, CRCHUM
• Nephrologist-transplanter – CHUM
• Shire Chair in Nephrology and Renal Transplantation and Regeneration
• Co-Director, Canadian Donation and Transplantation Research Program (CDTRP)

Mélanie Dieudé, PhD

• Associate Professor, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Infectiology,
• Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal
• Principal Scientific Officer, Canadian Donation and Transplantation Research Program (CDTRP)

Presentation of the laboratory and research interests:

The laboratory conducts research on the characterization of molecular pathways that govern renal vascular remodeling leading to chronic renal failure in transplant recipients and patients with renal disease. Our research team is also interested in the characterization of endothelial cell death biomarkers for better prediction of renal allograft rejection and loss of renal function. We aim at determining the impact of tissue injury on autoimmune responses of importance in solid organ rejection.

 Working environment:

CRCHUM, Immunopathology axis

The student will be part of a dynamic research team composed of graduate students, postdoctoral fellows and research associates working in basic and translational research.

The student will have the opportunity to enroll in the academic training program of the Canadian Donation and Transplantation Research Program (CDTRP) as a complement to their university studies.

 Requirements and skills:

• Have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, immunology, biomedical sciences or other relevant basic science fields.
• Experience in a “wet” laboratory in molecular and cellular biology is an asset.
• Have an interest in transplantation research.
• Attention to detail and rigor.
• Have an excellent academic record.

Training conditions:

The student must apply to the Université de Montréal for admission to the Master’s or Doctoral program in Molecular Biology at the Faculty of Medicine.

The student will be paid according to the conditions in effect at the CHUM research Centre. The candidate will have to apply for external awards (FRQS, CIHR, etc.).

Submit your application:

Interested candidates should send the following documents to Francis Migneault by email at: francis.migneault.chum@ssss.gouv.qc.ca

• Curriculum vitae
• Transcript of notes
• Letter of motivation
• References

La réplication de l’ADN est un processus fondamental qui permet la duplication du matériel génétique et son transfert subséquent aux cellules filles. Les dommages à l’ADN causés par des agents environnementaux ou médicaments anti-cancer peuvent empêcher la réplication de l’ADN et causer de l’instabilité génomique. Notre laboratoire investigue les mécanismes qui permettent aux cellules de répondre aux dommages à l’ADN qui se produisent durant la réplication. Nous utilisons des approches de biologie moléculaire, biochimie et génétique, ainsi que des modèles expérimentaux allant de la levure aux cellules de mammifères en culture.

Nous recherchons des candidat(e)s au doctorat (PhD) ou à la maîtrise (MSc) intéressés par la cancérologie et les mécanismes fondamentaux influençant la stabilité génomique chez les eucaryotes. Les candidats doivent être titulaires d’un baccalauréat et/ou d’une maîtrise en biochimie ou biologie moléculaire (ou équivalent) et répondre aux critères d’admissibilité au programme de Biologie Moléculaire de l’Université de Montréal. Les candidats possédant de l’expérience de laboratoire et présentant de bonnes aptitudes académiques seront favorisés. Les projets seront réalisés au centre de recherche de l’hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, un endroit de formation ayant accès à plusieurs plateformes technologiques de pointe affilié à l’Université de Montréal.

Envoyer une lettre de motivation, un C.V. complet, vos relevés de notes universitaires et les coordonnées de 3 références à Dr Hugo Wurtele : hwurtele@hotmail.com.

Publications récentes:

• Bélanger F, Fortier E, Dubé M, Lemay JF, Buisson R, Masson JY, Elsherbiny A, Costantino S, Carmona E, Mes-Masson AM, Wurtele H, Drobetsky E. (2018) Replication Protein A Availability during DNA Replication Stress Is a Major Determinant of Cisplatin Resistance in Ovarian Cancer Cells. Cancer Res. 78:5561-5573
• Simoneau A, Ricard É, Weber S, Hammond-Martel I, Wong LH, Sellam A, Giaever G, Nislow C, Raymond M, Wurtele H. (2016) Chromosome-wide histone deacetylation by sirtuins prevents hyperactivation of DNA damage-induced signalling upon replicative stress. Nucleic Acids Research 44(6):2706-26.
• Bélanger F, Angers JP, Fortier É, Hammond-Martel I, Costantino S, Drobetsky E, Wurtele H. (2016) Mutations in Replicative Stress Response Pathways Are Associated with S Phase-Specific Defects in Nucleotide Excision Repair. Journal of Biological Chemistry 291(2):522-37.

Project Description:

The goal of our research is to understand the roles of ubiquitin signaling in fundamental DNA-dependent processes most notably transcription regulation and DNA damage/repair. We are using biochemical and molecular biology approaches to investigate the function and mechanism of action of the deubiquitinase and tumor suppressor BAP1, which represents an excellent paradigm for understanding how deubiquitination coordinates DNA-dependent processes and protect against cancer development.The students will acquire a robust experience in state-of-the-art techniques in biochemistry, molecular oncology and cellular signaling.

Publications:

• N Mashtalir , S Daou , H Barbour, N Sen, J Gagnon , I Hammond-Martel , H Dar, M Therrien, EB Affar , Autodeubiquitination Protects the Tumor Suppressor BAP1 from Cytoplasmic Sequestration Mediated by the Atypical Ubiquitin Ligase UBE2O. Molecular Cell. 2014 May 8;54(3):392-406.
• H Yu, H Pak, I Hammond-Martel, M Ghram, A Rodrigue, S Daou, J Hébert, E Drobetsky, JY Masson, JM Di Noia and EB Affar. Tumor Suppressor and Deubiquitinase BAP1 Promotes DNA Double-Strand Break Repair. Proc Natl Acad Sci, 2014;111(1):285-90.
• I Hammond-Martel, H Yu, and EB Affar. Roles of ubiquitin signaling in transcription regulation. Cellular Signaling, 24(2):410-21, (2012)
• S Daou, N Mashtalir, I Hammond-Martel, H Pak, H Yu, G Sui, T M. Kristie and EB Affar. Crosstalk Between O-GlcNAcylation And Proteolytic Cleavage Regulates The HCF-1 Maturation Pathway. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci., 2011 Feb 15;108(7):2747-2752.
• I Hammond-Martel, H Pak, H Yu, R Rouget, AA. Horwitz, JD. Parvin, EA. Drobetsky and EB Affar. PI3 Kinase-Independent Proteolysis of BRCA1 Regulates Rad51 Recruitment During Genotoxic Stress in Human Cells. PLoS One., 2010 Nov 17;5(11):e14027
• H Yu, N Mashtalir, S Daou, I Hammond-Martel, J Ross, G Sui, GW. Hart, FJ. Rauscher III, E Drobetsky, E Milot, Y Shi and EB Affar. The Ubiquitin Carboxyl Hydrolase BAP1 Forms a Ternary Complex with YY1 and HCF-1 and is a Critical Regulator of Gene Expression. Mol Cell Biol., 2010 Nov;30(21):5071-5085.

Qualifications:

Candidates should have an excellent record of academic achievements, a strong interest in molecular biology, biochemistry or a related discipline (cell biology), have excellent organizational skills and should be highly motivated.

Applicants should submit a resume, university transcript, and a cover letter in one pdf document to Dr El Bachir Affar (el.bachir.affar@umontreal.ca)

The Marín-Juez laboratory, at the CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, is recruiting a PhD student and a postdoctoral fellow (4-year fully funded positions). Our laboratory is interested in the cellular and molecular mechanisms regulating cardiac regeneration. The successful applicant will join the Marín-Juez laboratory at the CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, where s/he will have access to state-of-the-art facilities and technology platforms including Advanced imaging platform (light-sheet, spinning-disc confocal, multiphoton, STED super-resolution, etc.), genomics (DropSeq, 10x, Illumina Novaseq) and bioinformatics platforms. CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center provides a thriving scientific environment where the successful applicant will have the opportunity to work with multidisciplinary scientific teams and to collaborate with talented clinicians and researchers.

Research project description

For this project, we are particularly interested in understanding how the cardiac endothelium regulates different aspects of cardiac regeneration and how alterations in the coronary network formation impact the ability of coronary vessels to support tissue replenishment. We have recently found early coronary regeneration as a key determinant of heart regeneration (Marín-Juez et al., PNAS 2016), and identified mechanisms regulating coronary network replenishment to form a vascular scaffold that supports cardiomyocyte regeneration (Marín-Juez et al., Dev Cell 2019). We now seek to define how the different components of the cardiac endothelium regulate tissue replenishment and identify the different mechanisms involved in their regulation of CM proliferation and migration.

Required training and profile

Ph.D. student position: Applicants should have training in vascular biology, molecular biology, cell biology, or related fields. Suitable candidates should be enthusiastic about regenerative and vascular biology. Previous research experience with zebrafish and/or heart regeneration is desired.

Postdoctoral position: We are looking for candidates with a Ph.D. in the biological sciences and laboratory experience in tissue repair/regeneration, cellular, molecular biology, or genetics. Previous experience working with zebrafish, imaging and histology are highly valued but not essential.

Both positions: Candidates with experience in confocal/light-sheet imaging and/or genome engineering are strongly encouraged to apply. Preference will be given to applicants with excellent collaborative and communication skills. The Marín-Juez lab and the CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center subscribe to the principle of equal access to opportunities and encourage women, members of visible and ethnic minorities, persons with disabilities and Indigenous people to apply.

Submit your application

Candidates must send the required documents before 07/2021 to Rubén Marín Juez at ruben.marin.juez.hsj@ssss.gouv.qc.ca

Please provide: Curriculum vitæ, Cover letter and References (2 or 3).

Doctoral position

Dr. Gilles Hickson’s research unit at CHU Sainte Justine is looking for doctoral students. The lab is mainly interested in the process of cytokinesis, the final stage of cell division. Our goal is to understand and characterize the molecular mechanisms that regulate cytokinesis since defects in this process can lead to cancer. To do this, we use Drosophila S2 cells in culture as a model system in combination with techniques of cellular biology, molecular biology, biochemistry and real-time microscopy. This model allowed us to define all the genes necessary for cytokinesis by large-scale RNAi screen. Our work is now focused on understanding how the components of this machinery interact throughout cytokinesis. In addition, we would like to understand how the mechanisms of cytokinesis are regulated during development. We begin to explore them in vivo using high-resolution microscopy and the powerful genetic tools that Drosophila offers.

The laboratory is housed in the stunning new research center of CHU Sainte-Justine, a mother child hospital affiliated with, and adjacent to, the Université de Montréal. The center offers state of the art research platforms and a vibrant student population.

Under the supervision of Dr. Gilles Hickson, the candidate will be involved in the design and implementation of research projects, and data analysis. He/she will be expected to present his results at laboratory meetings, institutional forums and national and international scientific meetings.

Website:

https://www.webdepot.umontreal.ca/Usagers/hicksong/MonDepotPublic/Labwebsite/Research.html

Requirements

• Degrees: Master
• Discipline of studies:
  • Biochemistry
  • Molecular biology
  • Pathology and cell biology
  • Biomedical sciences
• Language: French and/or English spoken and written.
• Qualifications:
• Excellent academic record
• Highly motivated, curious and passionate about research
• Experience with the basic techniques of molecular biology and biochemistry (cloning, cell culture, western blot).
• Excellent organizational skills, meticulousness, independent and teamwork.

Conditions

• Status: Full time student
• Starting date: Immediately

Workplace

• Dr. Gilles Hickson research Unit
• CHU Sainte Justine (3175 Côte-Sainte-Catherine Road, Montreal, QC H3T 1C5)

Required documents:

• CV
• Transcript
• Cover letter
• References

How to apply

• Submit via email your CV with transcripts and a cover letter (describing your background and expertise) as well as the names and contacts of at least two references, including your Masters supervisor, to Dr. Gilles Hickson, including “I am interested in cytokinesis” in the subject heading.
• Email: gilles.hickson@umontreal.ca

Lead Researcher(s):

Marie-Josée Hébert, MD, FRCPC

• Full Professor, Department of Medicine, Université de Montréal
• Researcher, CRCHUM
• Nephrologist-transplanter – CHUM
• Shire Chair in Nephrology and Renal Transplantation and Regeneration
• Co-Director, Canadian Donation and Transplantation Research Program (CDTRP)

Mélanie Dieudé, PhD

• Associate Professor, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Infectiology,
• Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal
• Principal Scientific Officer, Canadian Donation and Transplantation Research Program (CDTRP)

Presentation of the laboratory and research interests:

The laboratory conducts research on the characterization of molecular pathways that govern renal vascular remodeling leading to chronic renal failure in transplant recipients and patients with renal disease. Our research team is also interested in the characterization of endothelial cell death biomarkers for better prediction of renal allograft rejection and loss of renal function. We aim at determining the impact of tissue injury on autoimmune responses of importance in solid organ rejection.

 Working environment:

CRCHUM, Immunopathology axis

The student will be part of a dynamic research team composed of graduate students, postdoctoral fellows and research associates working in basic and translational research.

The student will have the opportunity to enroll in the academic training program of the Canadian Donation and Transplantation Research Program (CDTRP) as a complement to their university studies.

 Requirements and skills:

• Have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, immunology, biomedical sciences or other relevant basic science fields.
• Experience in a “wet” laboratory in molecular and cellular biology is an asset.
• Have an interest in transplantation research.
• Attention to detail and rigor.
• Have an excellent academic record.

Training conditions:

The student must apply to the Université de Montréal for admission to the Master’s or Doctoral program in Molecular Biology at the Faculty of Medicine.

The student will be paid according to the conditions in effect at the CHUM research Centre. The candidate will have to apply for external awards (FRQS, CIHR, etc.).

Submit your application:

Interested candidates should send the following documents to Francis Migneault by email at: francis.migneault.chum@ssss.gouv.qc.ca

• Curriculum vitae
• Transcript of notes
• Letter of motivation
• References

Doctoral position in Signaling and Cell growth

The Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer (IRIC) at the Université de Montréal has an opening for a doctoral student position in the Laboratory of Signaling and Cell growth headed by Dr Sylvain Meloche. The laboratory uses an interdisciplinary approach that combines molecular and cellular biology, functional genomics/proteomics, mouse genetics and chemical biology to understand how signal transduction pathways control cell fate of normal and cancer cells. Defining the importance and interconnection of these signaling events will further our understanding of the malignant transformation process and aid in the identification of new targets for preclinical validation. A major focus of the lab is to study the regulation and functions of the atypical ERK3/ERK4-MK5 signaling pathway. We have developed over the years a collection of genetically-engineered mouse models to study the physiological functions of these protein kinases as well as their potential implication in diseases like cancer. However, no pharmacological inhibitor of ERK3 and ERK4 has been described, which has considerably hampered the analysis of their biological functions. Recently, our laboratory has developed robust biochemical assays of ERK3 and ERK4 activity and identified a first generation of potent small molecule inhibitors of these enzymes. HTL activities are ongoing to optimize these molecules for pre-clinical evaluation.

The project will be focused on the following objectives:

1. Purification of ERK3/ERK4 from mammalian cells for structural analysis by x-ray crystallography
2. Structure-function studies of ERK3/ERK4 using complementary biochemical, genetic and structural approaches
3. Co-crystallization of ERK3/ERK4 with small molecule inhibitors to guide the SAR and inform on the mechanism of inhibition

Jobs requirements

Education & Experience

• M.Sc. degree in a related field (i.e. biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, genetics, microbiology)
• Demonstrated proficiency in biochemistry, molecular biology, and structural biology

Skills and abilities

• Experience with DNA recombinant techniques (cloning, construction of plasmid vectors, mutagenesis, etc), cell culture, purification of recombinant proteins, structural biology, and chemical biology would be considered an asset.

Application procedure

Interested candidates should submit a full CV, a one-page statement of research interests, and the name of two references in a single PDF attachment to the email address: sylvain.meloche@umontreal.ca.

About Sylvain Meloche:

Sylvain Meloche is a Principal Investigator at IRIC and Full Professor in the Department of Pharmacology and Physiology at the Université de Montréal. His team is studying the signaling mechanisms that control the cell division, differentiation and survival of normal and cancer cells. One of the objectives of the laboratory is to identify new therapeutic targets for targeted cancer treatment. For more information, visit us at https://www.iric.ca/research/historical-researchers/sylvain-meloche/.

About IRIC:

The main objective of IRIC is to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of cancer and to develop innovative therapeutic approaches. IRIC is located in a new ultramodern building on the main campus of the Université de Montréal. It currently hosts 28 principal investigators and more than 450 trainees, students, research associates and employees. IRIC also includes several advanced technology platforms. These include bio-imaging, biophysics, flow cytometry, genomics, high throughput screening, histology, medicinal chemistry and proteomics platforms as well as one of the largest pet stores in Canada. A collegial environment and curiosity-driven research are the fundamental characteristics of the Institute. For more information, visit us at www.iric.ca.

About the University of Montreal:

The Université de Montréal is one of the largest research universities in Canada. With its two affiliated schools, HEC Montréal and École Polytechnique, it is one of the largest higher education centers in North America. For more information, visit the University website at www.umontreal.ca.

La réplication de l’ADN est un processus fondamental qui permet la duplication du matériel génétique et son transfert subséquent aux cellules filles. Les dommages à l’ADN causés par des agents environnementaux ou médicaments anti-cancer peuvent empêcher la réplication de l’ADN et causer de l’instabilité génomique. Notre laboratoire investigue les mécanismes qui permettent aux cellules de répondre aux dommages à l’ADN qui se produisent durant la réplication. Nous utilisons des approches de biologie moléculaire, biochimie et génétique, ainsi que des modèles expérimentaux allant de la levure aux cellules de mammifères en culture.

Nous recherchons des candidat(e)s au doctorat (PhD) ou à la maîtrise (MSc) intéressés par la cancérologie et les mécanismes fondamentaux influençant la stabilité génomique chez les eucaryotes. Les candidats doivent être titulaires d’un baccalauréat et/ou d’une maîtrise en biochimie ou biologie moléculaire (ou équivalent) et répondre aux critères d’admissibilité au programme de Biologie Moléculaire de l’Université de Montréal. Les candidats possédant de l’expérience de laboratoire et présentant de bonnes aptitudes académiques seront favorisés. Les projets seront réalisés au centre de recherche de l’hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, un endroit de formation ayant accès à plusieurs plateformes technologiques de pointe affilié à l’Université de Montréal.

Envoyer une lettre de motivation, un C.V. complet, vos relevés de notes universitaires et les coordonnées de 3 références à Dr Hugo Wurtele : hwurtele@hotmail.com.

Publications récentes:

• Bélanger F, Fortier E, Dubé M, Lemay JF, Buisson R, Masson JY, Elsherbiny A, Costantino S, Carmona E, Mes-Masson AM, Wurtele H, Drobetsky E. (2018) Replication Protein A Availability during DNA Replication Stress Is a Major Determinant of Cisplatin Resistance in Ovarian Cancer Cells. Cancer Res. 78:5561-5573
• Simoneau A, Ricard É, Weber S, Hammond-Martel I, Wong LH, Sellam A, Giaever G, Nislow C, Raymond M, Wurtele H. (2016) Chromosome-wide histone deacetylation by sirtuins prevents hyperactivation of DNA damage-induced signalling upon replicative stress. Nucleic Acids Research 44(6):2706-26.
• Bélanger F, Angers JP, Fortier É, Hammond-Martel I, Costantino S, Drobetsky E, Wurtele H. (2016) Mutations in Replicative Stress Response Pathways Are Associated with S Phase-Specific Defects in Nucleotide Excision Repair. Journal of Biological Chemistry 291(2):522-37.

The importance of the first 1000 days of human development is becoming increasingly evident.   Embryonic development during the first week is arguably the most critical window of human development. During this time, the first lineages are being established: 1) trophectoderm (TE; prospective placenta), 2) primitive endoderm (PE; prospective yolk sac), and 3) pluripotent epiblast cells (EPI; prospective embryo proper). With recent advancements in single-cell genomics, we can now successfully measure the molecular content in an individual cell – a technology that is optimal for studying the molecular biology in the developing embryo (given the numerous cell types present and limited starting material) and the exosomes released by the embryo into the culture media. The project will also investigate how the early ex vivo environment modifies the methylome, transcriptome and noncoding RNAs of the first three lineages (TE, EPI and PE); thus potentially programming the placenta and developing fetus for disease and disorder later in life. Understanding key gene pathways that are particularly susceptible to insults during this specific window of development in this population is of great importance.  These studies will shed light onto the mechanisms and pathways involved in regulating and driving the shift from a totipotent zygote to the pluripotent cell lineages present prior to implantation.  In addition, these studies may also provide potential targets for therapeutic intervention in addition to providing definitive evidence as to whether a current protocol or therapeutic adjuvant should be continued in clinical practice.

Publications indexed on Pubmed:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/myncbi/browse/collection/47656928/?sort=date&direction=descending

Candidate profile:

Candidates should have recently completed or currently completing a MSc. Preference will be given to candidates with previous experience in molecular biology experiments (for example, working with RNA/DNA, qPCR), working with animal models.

1. High motivated
2. Willingness of working as a member of a team
3. Good written/spoken English communication skills
4. Strong academic history

Scholarship/bourse: Stipends will be provided according to institutional guidelines if application to external fellowship is not successful.

To apply/application: please send your CV, transcripts, a motivation letter and the name and email addresses of 2-3 references to Sophie Petropoulos: sophie.petropoulos@umontreal.ca

Start date: Available June 2019, to be determined with candidate.

PhD student position/Étudiant(e) au doctorat
Host-pathogen interaction Laboratory/Laboratoire interaction hôte-pathogène
Dre. Nathalie Grandvaux, CRCHUM Montreal
http://www.nathaliegrandvauxlab.com

Research project: Viruses, including recurring Influenza or Respiratory Syncytial Virus, pose a threat to
human health that is escalating with new outbreaks and the emergence of new viruses, such as Ebola and
Zika. A current global effort in the fight against viruses consists in the development of host-targeted antivirals as an alternative to traditional direct-acting antivirals, which favour the emergence of resistant viruses. Amongst our lines of research, a large endeavour is aimed at characterizing the role of redox metabolism in the control of the host antiviral response. We know that Reactive oxygen species (ROS), either exogenous or produced in response to virus infection, are necessary for host defense, but are also responsible for deleterious effects, often related to virus-associated pathogenesis. We have identified the role of two isoforms of ROS-generating enzymes NADPH oxidase, NOX2 and DUOX2, in the antiviral response against respiratory viruses in airway epithelial cells. We use biochemical and proteomics-based approaches to determine how ROS modify the host proteome via protein oxidation.

Publications indexed on Pubmed: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/?term=grandvaux+n
Preprint: bioRxiv, doi: 10.1101/273623

Candidate profil/Profil du candidat(e): Candidates should have recently completed or currently
completing a MSc in Biochemistry or Microbiology-Immunology or related specialty. Preference will be given
to candidates with previous experience in tissue culture, biochemistry and molecular biology experiments
(immunoblot, cloning, etc)/Le candidat(e) doit avoir récemment complété ou compléter actuellement une
maîtrise en biochimie ou une spécialité connexe. Une expérience antérieure de culture cellulaire, de biochimie et de biologie moléculaire (immunoblot, clonage, etc.) est un atout.
The successful candidate also needs to have/Le candidat retenu doit également avoir:
– High self-motivation/Haute motivation personnelle.
– Willingness of working as a member of a team/ Volonté de travailler en équipe.
– Good written/spoken English communication skills/Bonnes compétences en communication écrite/orale en anglais.
Scholarship/bourse: Stipends will be provided according to institutional guidelines if application to external
fellowship is not successful. Une bourse sera offerte conformément aux directives institutionnelles si
l’étudiant n’obtient pas de bourse externe.

To apply/application: please send your CV, your transcripts, a motivation letter and the name and email
addresses of 2 references to/Les candidat(e)s intéressés doivent envoyer un C.V. complet, les relevés de
notes, une lettre de motivation, ainsi que le nom et adresse email de 2 personnes références à: Nathalie
Grandvaux: nathalie.grandvaux@umontreal.ca.

Project Description:

The goal of our research is to understand the roles of ubiquitin signaling in fundamental DNA-dependent processes most notably transcription regulation and DNA damage/repair. We are using biochemical and molecular biology approaches to investigate the function and mechanism of action of the deubiquitinase and tumor suppressor BAP1, which represents an excellent paradigm for understanding how deubiquitination coordinates DNA-dependent processes and protect against cancer development.The students will acquire a robust experience in state-of-the-art techniques in biochemistry, molecular oncology and cellular signaling.

Publications:

• N Mashtalir , S Daou , H Barbour, N Sen, J Gagnon , I Hammond-Martel , H Dar, M Therrien, EB Affar , Autodeubiquitination Protects the Tumor Suppressor BAP1 from Cytoplasmic Sequestration Mediated by the Atypical Ubiquitin Ligase UBE2O. Molecular Cell. 2014 May 8;54(3):392-406.
• H Yu, H Pak, I Hammond-Martel, M Ghram, A Rodrigue, S Daou, J Hébert, E Drobetsky, JY Masson, JM Di Noia and EB Affar. Tumor Suppressor and Deubiquitinase BAP1 Promotes DNA Double-Strand Break Repair. Proc Natl Acad Sci, 2014;111(1):285-90.
• I Hammond-Martel, H Yu, and EB Affar. Roles of ubiquitin signaling in transcription regulation. Cellular Signaling, 24(2):410-21, (2012)
• S Daou, N Mashtalir, I Hammond-Martel, H Pak, H Yu, G Sui, T M. Kristie and EB Affar. Crosstalk Between O-GlcNAcylation And Proteolytic Cleavage Regulates The HCF-1 Maturation Pathway. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci., 2011 Feb 15;108(7):2747-2752.
• I Hammond-Martel, H Pak, H Yu, R Rouget, AA. Horwitz, JD. Parvin, EA. Drobetsky and EB Affar. PI3 Kinase-Independent Proteolysis of BRCA1 Regulates Rad51 Recruitment During Genotoxic Stress in Human Cells. PLoS One., 2010 Nov 17;5(11):e14027
• H Yu, N Mashtalir, S Daou, I Hammond-Martel, J Ross, G Sui, GW. Hart, FJ. Rauscher III, E Drobetsky, E Milot, Y Shi and EB Affar. The Ubiquitin Carboxyl Hydrolase BAP1 Forms a Ternary Complex with YY1 and HCF-1 and is a Critical Regulator of Gene Expression. Mol Cell Biol., 2010 Nov;30(21):5071-5085.

Qualifications:

Candidates should have an excellent record of academic achievements, a strong interest in molecular biology, biochemistry or a related discipline (cell biology), have excellent organizational skills and should be highly motivated.

Applicants should submit a resume, university transcript, and a cover letter in one pdf document to Dr El Bachir Affar (el.bachir.affar@umontreal.ca)

MANDATE DESCRIPTION
The Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer (IRIC) at the University of Montréal has an opening for a funded postdoctoral fellowship in the Laboratory of Signaling and Cell Growth. The laboratory uses an interdisciplinary approach that combines molecular and cellular biology, functional genomics/proteomics, mouse genetic models and chemical biology to understand how signal transduction pathways control cell fate of normal and cancer cells. A major focus of the lab is to study the regulation and functions of the atypical ERK3/ERK4-MK5 signaling pathway. We have developed over the years all the necessary tools, including a collection of genetically-engineered mouse models, to study the physiological functions of these protein kinases as well as their potential implication in diseases like cancer. However, no pharmacological inhibitor of ERK3 and ERK4 has been described, which has considerably hampered the analysis of their biological functions. Recently, our laboratory has developed robust biochemical assays of ERK3 and ERK4 activity and identified a first generation of potent small molecule inhibitors of these enzymes. HTL activities are ongoing to optimize these molecules for pre-clinical evaluation.

Specific projects include:

• 1- purification of ERK3/ERK4 from mammalian cells for structural analysis by x-ray crystallography
• 2- structure-function studies of ERK3/ERK4 using complementary biochemical, genetic and structural approaches
• 3- co-crystallization of ERK3/ERK4 with small molecule inhibitors to guide the SAR and inform on the mechanism of inhibition

Under the supervision of Dr. Sylvain Meloche, the recruited fellow will be expected to design and conduct research projects, as well as supervise and mentor graduate students and interns. He will be solicited to present his research data to laboratory meetings, institutional forums, and national and international scientific meetings.
Candidates should have expertise in protein biochemistry, protein purification or structural biology. Expertise in cell signaling would be considered an asset.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:
Education & Experience

• Ph.D. in a related field (i.e. biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, genetics, microbiology)
• Demonstrated proficiency in biochemistry, molecular biology, and structural biology.

Skills and abilities

• Experience with DNA recombinant techniques (cloning, construction of plasmid vectors, mutagenesis, etc), cell culture, purification of recombinant proteins, structural biology, and chemical biology would be considered an asset.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE
Interested candidates should submit a full CV, a one-page statement of research interests, and the name of two references in a single PDF attachment to the email address: sylvain.meloche@umontreal.ca

Employment Equity Program
IRIC and Université de Montréal uphold the principles of employment equity and encourages applications from women, members of visible minorities, ethnic minorities, persons with disabilities and Aboriginal people.
Immigration requirements
In compliance with Canadian immigration requirements, priority shall be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
We thank all applicants for their interest. Please take note, however, that only short listed candidates for the position will be contacted by email for an interview.
ABOUT SYLVAIN MELOCHE
Sylvain Meloche is Principal Investigator at IRIC and Professor of Pharmacology and Physiology at Université de Montréal. His research team study the signaling pathways that control cell division, differentiation and survival of normal and cancer cells. One objective of the laboratory is to identify novel mechanism-based targets for the development of cancer therapeutics. More information can be found at: https://www.iric.ca/en/research/principal-investigators/sylvain-meloche/
ABOUT IRIC
The primary objective of IRIC is to elucidate the molecular underpinnings of cancer and to devise innovative approaches to cure cancer. IRIC is located in a state-of-the-art new building on the main campus of UdeM. It currently hosts 28 Principal Investigators and over 450 trainees, graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, research associates and support staff. IRIC also comprises several cutting edge technological platforms. These include Bioimaging, Biophysics & NMR, Flow Cytometry, Genomics, High-Throughput Screening, Histology, Medicinal Chemistry, Proteomics, and one of the largest animal facilities in Canada. A collegial and curiosity-driven research environment is a key characteristic of the Institute. For more information, please visit us at a www.iric.ca.
ABOUT UNIVERSITÉ DE MONTRÉAL
Université de Montréal is one of the leading research universities in Canada. Together with its two affiliated schools, HEC Montréal and École Polytechnique, it constitutes one of the largest centers of higher education in North America. For more information, please visit www.umontreal.ca and UdeM at a Glance.

Project Description:

The importance of the first 1000 days of human development is becoming increasingly evident.   Embryonic development during the first week is arguably the most critical window of human development. During this time, the first lineages are being established: 1) trophectoderm (TE; prospective placenta), 2) primitive endoderm (PE; prospective yolk sac), and 3) pluripotent epiblast cells (EPI; prospective embryo proper). With recent advancements in single-cell genomics, we can now successfully measure the molecular content in an individual cell – a technology that is optimal for studying the molecular biology in the developing embryo (given the numerous cell types present and limited starting material) and the exosomes released by the embryo into the culture media. The project will also investigate how the early ex vivo environment modifies the methylome, transcriptome and noncoding RNAs of the first three lineages (TE, EPI and PE); thus potentially programming the placenta and developing fetus for disease and disorder later in life. Understanding key gene pathways that are particularly susceptible to insults during this specific window of development in this population is of great importance.  These studies will shed light onto the mechanisms and pathways involved in regulating and driving the shift from a totipotent zygote to the pluripotent cell lineages present prior to implantation.  In addition, these studies may also provide potential targets for therapeutic intervention in addition to providing definitive evidence as to whether a current protocol or therapeutic adjuvant should be continued in clinical practice.

Publications on Pubmed :

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/myncbi/browse/collection/47656928/?sort=date&direction=descending

Postdoctoral Fellow Candidate Requirements:

The position is for a postdoctoral fellow on salary that is available to start immediately.  It is for one year fixed term with the possibility for extension.  The postdoctoral fellow will take on the processing, quality control, storage and analysis of high-throughput single-cell molecular data (methylome, transcriptome).  The project is focused on investigating preimplantation development.

Entry requirements

• Academic degree in bioinformatics or computational biology preferred or sufficient expertise with large-scale computing, high-throughput data handling, biological data analysis (RNA-seq and Methylation)
• Demonstrated experience with R, Unix/Linux environments and programming skills
• Good knowledge of biology and previous participation in research activities/projects/publications. Specific expertise in developmental biology is not required but is an asset.
• Impeccable organizational skills, drive and independence
• Excellent spoken and written English.

The application must include:

• A letter of interest, outlining how the candidate’s experience and background fulfills the specific duties and entry requirements.
• A complete curriculum vitae, describing previous positions, roles and responsibilities, academic track record, scientific publications and other relevant experience
• 2-3 referees

Scholarship/bourse: Stipends will be provided according to institutional guidelines if application to external fellowship is not successful.

To apply/application: please send your CV, transcripts, a motivation letter and the name and email addresses of 2-3 references to Sophie Petropoulos: sophie.petropoulos@umontreal.ca

Start date: Available January 2019, to be determined with candidate.

Project Description:

The goal of our research is to understand the roles of ubiquitin signaling in fundamental DNA-dependent processes most notably transcription regulation and DNA damage/repair. We are using biochemical and molecular biology approaches to investigate the function and mechanism of action of the deubiquitinase and tumor suppressor BAP1, which represents an excellent paradigm for understanding how deubiquitination coordinates DNA-dependent processes and protect against cancer development.The students will acquire a robust experience in state-of-the-art techniques in biochemistry, molecular oncology and cellular signaling.

Publications:

• N Mashtalir , S Daou , H Barbour, N Sen, J Gagnon , I Hammond-Martel , H Dar, M Therrien, EB Affar , Autodeubiquitination Protects the Tumor Suppressor BAP1 from Cytoplasmic Sequestration Mediated by the Atypical Ubiquitin Ligase UBE2O. Molecular Cell. 2014 May 8;54(3):392-406.
• H Yu, H Pak, I Hammond-Martel, M Ghram, A Rodrigue, S Daou, J Hébert, E Drobetsky, JY Masson, JM Di Noia and EB Affar. Tumor Suppressor and Deubiquitinase BAP1 Promotes DNA Double-Strand Break Repair. Proc Natl Acad Sci, 2014;111(1):285-90.
• I Hammond-Martel, H Yu, and EB Affar. Roles of ubiquitin signaling in transcription regulation. Cellular Signaling, 24(2):410-21, (2012)
• S Daou, N Mashtalir, I Hammond-Martel, H Pak, H Yu, G Sui, T M. Kristie and EB Affar. Crosstalk Between O-GlcNAcylation And Proteolytic Cleavage Regulates The HCF-1 Maturation Pathway. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci., 2011 Feb 15;108(7):2747-2752.
• I Hammond-Martel, H Pak, H Yu, R Rouget, AA. Horwitz, JD. Parvin, EA. Drobetsky and EB Affar. PI3 Kinase-Independent Proteolysis of BRCA1 Regulates Rad51 Recruitment During Genotoxic Stress in Human Cells. PLoS One., 2010 Nov 17;5(11):e14027
• H Yu, N Mashtalir, S Daou, I Hammond-Martel, J Ross, G Sui, GW. Hart, FJ. Rauscher III, E Drobetsky, E Milot, Y Shi and EB Affar. The Ubiquitin Carboxyl Hydrolase BAP1 Forms a Ternary Complex with YY1 and HCF-1 and is a Critical Regulator of Gene Expression. Mol Cell Biol., 2010 Nov;30(21):5071-5085.

Qualifications:

Candidates should have an excellent record of academic achievements, a strong interest in molecular biology, biochemistry or a related discipline (cell biology), have excellent organizational skills and should be highly motivated. Applicants should submit a resume, university transcript, and a cover letter in one pdf document to Dr El Bachir Affar (el.bachir.affar@umontreal.ca)