PhD and Postdoctoral Awards in Computational Biology and RNA Therapeutics at University of Alberta University of Alberta in Canada

The University of Alberta's Computational Biology Research and Analytics (COBRA) Lab, led by Professor Hosna Jabbari, is inviting applications for the prestigious Canada Impact+ Research Training Awards for both PhD students and postdoctoral fellows. This opportunity is ideal for highly motivated candidates interested in advancing research in computational biology, with a particular emphasis on RNA structure and its applications in RNA therapeutics. The COBRA Lab is recognized for its innovative work at the intersection of bioinformatics, computational biology, and health sciences.

The Canada Impact+ Research Training Awards are a new initiative by the Canadian federal research funding agencies (CIHR, NSERC, SSHRC) to attract top international research talent and Canadians returning from abroad. The program provides substantial, multi-year financial support: Doctoral Awards offer CAD $40,000 per year for up to three years, while Postdoctoral Awards provide CAD $70,000 per year for up to two years. These awards are designed to support tuition and living expenses, with some institutional costs potentially covered by other sources.

Research topics in the COBRA Lab include computational biology, RNA structure, RNA therapeutics, and related areas such as advanced digital technologies, biotechnology, and health. The Canada Impact+ program prioritizes research in advanced digital technologies (including AI, quantum, and cybersecurity), health and biotechnology, clean technology, environment, food and water security, democratic resilience, manufacturing, and defence technologies. Applicants should ensure their research interests align with these priority areas.

Eligibility requirements include being a highly motivated PhD student or postdoctoral fellow with a strong background in computational biology, bioinformatics, or related fields. The program is open to international researchers and Canadians returning from abroad who are not currently affiliated with a Canadian institution. Application materials must include a CV, cover letter, and transcripts. Nominations are made by eligible supervisors, and institutional nomination policies apply.

To apply, candidates should email their application materials to Professor Hosna Jabbari at [email protected] with the subject line 'Canada Impact+ trainee'. Further information about the COBRA Lab's research can be found at thecobralab.com, and detailed program Q&A is available at the NSERC website. The application deadline is January 31, 2026.

This is a unique opportunity to join a leading research group at the University of Alberta and contribute to cutting-edge advancements in computational biology and RNA therapeutics, supported by one of Canada's most significant research training initiatives.