Fully Funded PhD Student Position in Reproductive Biology

We are offering a fully funded PhD student position focused on the regulation of male fertility through an interdisciplinary approach. Our current research centers on understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in the final maturation (capacitation) of sperm within the female reproductive tract, using a bovine model. Traditionally, sperm cells have been considered transcriptionally and translationally inactive. However, our recent studies challenge this dogma. We have shown that sperm contains full-length mRNA, which is actively translated during the capacitation process. Despite this discovery, the molecular mechanisms governing mRNA translation in sperm remain unknown.

The goal of this graduate student position is to reconceptualize translational quiescence in sperm by exploring the molecular basis of translational regulation. The ideal candidate should have a strong background in biochemistry and RNA biology, along with experience in advanced cellular and molecular biological techniques. Knowledge of reproductive biology would be an asset. The selected student will have the unique opportunity to develop expertise in various methodologies, including RNA extraction from sperm, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), immunoblotting, mass spectrometry-based protein identification, polysome profiling, and ribosome profiling. This research will be conducted in collaboration with the Thakor lab at the University of Lethbridge, Artificial Insemination centers, and human fertility clinics. The successful candidate will have exemplary opportunities for professional skills development and career awareness.

The University of Calgary (UCalgary) is Canada's entrepreneurial university, situated in the country's most enterprising city. It is a leading research institution, consistently ranked among the top universities of its age. Founded in 1966, UCalgary is home to 36,000 students who benefit from an innovative learning environment enriched by research opportunities, hands-on experiences, and entrepreneurial thinking. For more information, please visit ucalgary.ca.

Please send a letter of motivation, current curriculum vitae, and contact information for at least three references to [email protected] and [email protected]. We thank all interested candidates; however, we will contact selected candidates only.