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University of Lethbridge

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PhD Position at the Neuronal Signaling Unit, Universitat de Lleida-IRBLleida University of Lleida in Canada

Degree Level

PhD

Field of study

Biology

Funding

Full funding available

Deadline

Aug 17, 2026

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Country

Canada

University

University of Lethbridge

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Keywords

Biology
Neuropsychology
Medical Science
Neurodegenerative Disease
Combination Therapy
Motor Neuron
Neurobiology

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About this position

PhD opportunity at the Neuronal Signaling Unit, University of Lleida / IRBLleida, in Spain, within the Department of Experimental Medicine. This is a full-time, temporary PhD position for a first-stage researcher (R1) in the field of Neurosciences / Neurobiology.

The project addresses Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), a hereditary neuromuscular disease caused by mutations in SMN1 that lead to reduced SMN protein levels and progressive motor neuron degeneration. The work will explore a therapeutic strategy combining an antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) approach, such as nusinersen-like exon 7 inclusion in SMN2, with clomipramine in a human iPSC-derived motor neuron model of SMA. The aim is to determine whether dual treatment provides additive or synergistic benefits by restoring SMN expression while also correcting SMN-independent pathological mechanisms linked to lipid metabolism dysfunction and SMPD1 deficiency.

Planned outcome measures include SMN expression, motor neuron survival, neurodegeneration, and activation of cell survival pathways. The project is strongly translational and may contribute to the development of more effective combination therapies for SMA and improved long-term clinical outcomes.

Funding: the PhD position is funded by the Convocatoria 2026 d'ajuts UdL per a la contratació de personal predoctoral en formació.

Eligibility: applicants should hold a Master’s degree or equivalent in Neurosciences or a related area. No further requirements are stated in the advertisement.

Application deadline: 17 August 2026, 12:00 (Europe/Madrid). Applications are to be submitted by email to the contact address listed in the vacancy.

Institution: University of Lleida, Lleida, Catalonia, Spain.

Funding details

Full funding including tuition fees and living expenses is available for this position. The scholarship covers all educational costs and provides a monthly stipend.

How to apply

Please submit your application including a cover letter, CV, academic transcripts, and contact information for two references. Applications should be sent via the online portal before the deadline.

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