Job offers:

The Ravel-Chapuis Laboratory is seeking a highly motivated MSc or PhD student to join an active research program focused on the molecular and cellular pathomechanisms of neuromuscular disorders.

NEW OFFER: Jan 2027

Characterization of Extracellular Vesicle (EV) Dysfunction in Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1 (DM1)

Project description: Myotonic Dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is a neuromuscular and multisystemic disorder caused by a genetic mutation that disrupts normal cellular function, leading to the wide range of clinical manifestations characteristic of the disease. Over the past several years, our laboratory has identified a dysfunction in extracellular vesicle (EV) production in DM1 skeletal muscle. This project aims to build on these findings by elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying EV dysregulation in DM1 and determining the functional consequences of this dysfunction on muscle and systemic pathology.

Methodologies: The project will involve a combination of molecular and cellular biology approaches, including: Cell culture, Western blotting, RT-PCR and quantitative PCR (qPCR), Immunofluorescence microscopy.

Candidate profile: Applicants should have a strong interest in neuromuscular biology and disease mechanisms. Prior experience in molecular and/or cellular biology techniques is an asset but not required, as training will be provided.

NEW OFFER: Jan 2027

Characterization of the impact of myokines on cognitive dysfunction in Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1 (DM1)

Project description: Myotonic Dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is a multisystemic neuromuscular disorder that affects skeletal muscle as well as several other organs, including the brain. Our laboratory has recently identified evidence that communication between skeletal muscle and the brain is disrupted in DM1. This project will investigate whether changes in myokines, signaling molecules released by skeletal muscle, contribute to cognitive dysfunction in DM1. By characterizing how altered muscle-derived signals affect the brain, this work aims to better understand the mechanisms linking skeletal muscle dysfunction to neurological manifestations of DM1.

Methodologies: The project will involve a combination of molecular and cellular biology approaches, including: Cell culture, Western blotting, RT-PCR and quantitative PCR (qPCR), Immunofluorescence microscopy.

Candidate profile: Applicants should have a strong interest in neuroscience. Prior experience in molecular and/or cellular biology techniques is an asset but not required, as training will be provided.

How to apply: Interested candidates are invited to submit a curriculum vitae and a brief cover letter to Aymeric.Ravel-Chapuis@uottawa.ca . Applications may be submitted in either French or English.