Graduate Student

 Start Date: January 2027 (negotiable)

Commitment: Full-time graduate studies (minimum 40 hours/week dedicated to thesis-related work)

Location: On-site, University of Ottawa Heart Institute, 40 Ruskin Street, Ottawa, ON K1Y 4W7

Minimum Graduate Stipend: $23,000/year (MSc); $25,000/year (PhD)

Position Summary

The Cardiac Translational Research Laboratory at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute is currently recruiting prospective MSc and PhD students to undertake research in cardiac arrhythmias and translational cardiovascular medicine under the supervision of Dr. Darryl Davis, MD.

Our interdisciplinary research program focuses on the mechanisms and treatment of atrial fibrillation, with particular expertise in cardiac inflammation and fibrosis, extracellular vesicle biology, and the development of novel biologic therapies. Projects span molecular and cellular studies, human cardiac cell systems, and preclinical models of cardiovascular disease, with a strong emphasis on translating laboratory discoveries toward clinical application.

Key Responsibilities

• Meet the expectations of a full-time graduate student in the University of Ottawa Cellular and Molecular Medicine graduate program
• Design, perform, analyze, and troubleshoot experiments
• Analyze and interpret experimental data, including statistical analyses
• Prepare research findings for manuscripts, presentations, and scientific conferences
• Critically review relevant scientific literature
• Contribute actively to the collaborative research environment of the laboratory

Qualifications

• For MSc applicants: BSc or equivalent in biomedical sciences, pharmacology, physiology, biochemistry, biology, health sciences, or a related discipline
• For PhD applicants: MSc or equivalent in a relevant biomedical or life-science discipline
• Strong academic performance
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Previous experience with cell culture, molecular biology, cardiovascular research, extracellular vesicles, or related experimental techniques is considered an asset

Application Process

Interested applicants should submit:

• A cover letter outlining their research interests, relevant experience, and career goals
• Curriculum vitae
• Unofficial academic transcript(s)
• Names and contact information for two references

Applications should be sent to Dr. Charlotte René at [email protected].

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until suitable candidates are identified.