Research Assistant 2

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The Zandee and Thebault labs are seeking a skilled and motivated Research Assistant to support data analysis and pipeline development for cutting-edge research in neuroinflammation, multiple sclerosis, and neurodegeneration. The RA will work closely with Dr. Stephanie Zande, Dr. Simon Thebault, lab members, and external collaborators to process, analyze, and interpret large-scale transcriptomic, single-cell, and spatial omics datasets. The position will also contribute to multi-modal data integration efforts that combine imaging, genomics, and machine learning approaches.

Key Responsibilities

• Data Processing & Analysis
  • Perform quality control, alignment, and quantification of bulk and single-nucleus RNA-seq datasets.
  • Conduct differential expression, clustering, trajectory inference, cell type annotation, and pathway enrichment analyses.
  • Preprocess and manage metadata to ensure reproducibility and integrity of datasets.
  • Perform proteomic analysis using OLINK datasets, including data integration with single cell data collected on the same samples
  • Assist with integration of transcriptomic and proteomic data with imaging and clinical outcomes.

• Pipeline Development & Maintenance
  • Develop and maintain reproducible and scalable pipelines (e.g., using Snakemake, Nextflow, or custom scripts).
  • Automate common data processing workflows in bash, R, or Python.
  • Maintain version control using GitHub and contribute to internal documentation.

• Collaboration & Communication
  • Work closely with lab members to provide analytical support and interpret results.
  • Generate figures and summaries for presentations, publications, and grant applications.
  • Collaborate with computational and wet lab teams across multiple institutions.

• Data Management & Infrastructure
  • Organize and back up sequencing data and analysis results using lab-approved systems.
  • Ensure adherence to data security and compliance protocols.

Preferred Qualifications

• MSc or PhD in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Strong programming skills in R and/or Python; experience with shell scripting.
• Hands-on experience with sc/snRNA-seq analysis tools (e.g., Seurat, Scanpy, Cell Ranger).
• Familiarity with high-performance computing environments and job scheduling systems.
• Knowledge of Git/GitHub, version control, and reproducible research practices.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills; ability to work independently and in teams.
• Interest in neuroscience, immunology, or multi-omics data integration is a plus.

Work Environment & Opportunities

• The position is embedded in an interdisciplinary research team with projects spanning neuroinflammation, machine learning, and single-cell biology.
• Opportunities for co-authorship on high-impact publications and involvement in grant writing and collaborations.
• Flexible work arrangements (e.g., hybrid or remote-friendly) can be discussed depending on project needs.

This position is covered by the AMURE collective agreement: http://www.aerum-amure.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/AMURE-2023-2027.pdf

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. The level of English required for this position has been assessed at a level 3 on a scale of 0-4.

Hourly Salary:

$31.44

Hours per Week:

40 (Full time)

Location:

Montreal Neuro.

Supervisor:

Assistant Professor (Research)

Position Start Date:

2025-09-01

Position End Date:

2026-08-30

Deadline to Apply:

2025-08-06

This position is covered by the Association of McGill University Research Employees (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.