About
The Chidiac Lab at Université de Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada, is inviting motivated graduate students to apply for Master’s (MSc) and PhD research positions in stem cell biology, vascular biology, and regenerative medicine.
The research project, titled “hPSC-Derived Choroidal Endothelial Cells for AMD Disease Modelling,” focuses on developing innovative human cell-based models to investigate age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of vision loss.
AMD involves progressive damage to the central retina and associated tissues. The research aims to generate and characterize human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC)-derived choroidal endothelial cells and develop advanced two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) vascular models. These models will help researchers understand vascular dysfunction in AMD and identify potential therapeutic pathways.
Research Project
The selected candidates may contribute to the following research activities:
- Using single-cell and bulk transcriptomic approaches to identify molecular programs involved in stem cell differentiation into choroidal endothelial cells.
- Developing and optimizing specialized 2D cultures and 3D vascular organoids that reproduce important features of the choroidal microvasculature.
- Investigating vascular dysfunction associated with age-related macular degeneration.
- Identifying molecular mechanisms and candidate therapeutic pathways that could support future treatment development.
Your Role
Successful candidates will have the opportunity to:
- Generate and characterize choroidal endothelial cells derived from human pluripotent stem cells.
- Analyze transcriptomic datasets and investigate regulatory pathways using CRISPR-based approaches.
- Develop 2D and 3D vascular systems to assess barrier function, angiogenesis, and cellular stress responses.
- Participate in collaborative research at the intersection of stem cell biology, vascular biology, and disease modelling.
What the Laboratory Offers
- Hands-on training in stem cell research, vascular organoids, and disease modelling.
- Personalized mentorship in a collaborative, multidisciplinary research environment.
- Opportunities to contribute to scientific publications, conference presentations, and professional development.
- Experience with advanced research methods relevant to regenerative medicine and vascular disease research.
Eligibility
Applicants with a background in the following fields may be suitable:
- Pharmacology
- Cell biology
- Molecular biology
- Biochemistry
- Vascular biology or a related scientific discipline
Candidates should demonstrate an interest in stem cell biology, vascular biology, ocular diseases, or regenerative medicine. Curiosity, analytical thinking, teamwork, motivation, and relevant laboratory experience are desirable.
Available study levels: MSc and PhD.
Applicants should review the official university research-project information and relevant graduate program admission requirements to determine their eligibility.
How to apply
Interested candidates should prepare a single PDF file containing the following documents:
- Brief cover letter: One page describing research interests and motivation.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Academic background, research experience, technical skills, and relevant achievements.
- Academic transcripts: Records of previous university studies.
Email the complete application as a single PDF to:
Applicants are encouraged to highlight relevant experience or interests in stem cell research, cell biology, vascular biology, transcriptomics, or disease modelling.