Date Posted: 10/30/2026Req ID:50842Faculty/Division: Temerty Faculty of MedicineDepartment: Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative DiseasesCampus: St. George Downtown TorontoExisting Vacancy: Yes Description: Your Opportunity The Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases invites applications for a 12-month Limited Term Research Associate position in the laboratory of Dr. Gabor G. Kovacs. The laboratory conducts translational research into the molecular and biochemical mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases, particularly tauopathies and other proteinopathies, integrating human postmortem brain tissue, protein biochemistry, cellular models and protein aggregation and seed amplification assays. Reporting to Dr. Kovacs, the Research Associate will take scientific responsibility for defined research projects, independently developing hypotheses, designing and leading experimental studies, interpreting findings and disseminating original research. The position combines scientific independence with close collaboration across neuropathology, molecular and cellular biology, biochemistry and translational neuroscience. Laboratory techniques are central to the research but are performed in service of investigator-led scientific questions rather than as routine technical support. Your Responsibilities Independently initiate, design and lead original research projects examining disease-associated protein aggregation, biochemical heterogeneity, protein homeostasis and cellular responses in neurodegenerative diseases, in consultation with the principal investigator. Develop research hypotheses, experimental strategies, study protocols and analysis plans; critically evaluate literature, identify methodological gaps and establish scientifically justified research priorities. Lead experimental investigations using human postmortem brain tissue, including analysis of PBS-soluble and sarkosyl-insoluble protein fractions, SDS-PAGE, Western blotting and complementary biochemical approaches to characterize tau, α-synuclein and other disease-relevant proteins. Design and direct experiments using mammalian cell culture and disease models to investigate protein aggregation, degradation and toxicity; develop or adapt protein aggregation and seed amplification assays as appropriate. Independently analyze, integrate and interpret complex biochemical and cellular datasets, assess reproducibility and limitations, and determine follow-up experiments and new research directions. Develop, validate and refine experimental methodologies, antibody-based assays and quality-control strategies, exercising independent scientific judgment in troubleshooting and interpreting results. Lead the preparation of scientific manuscripts for submission to peer-reviewed journals, including drafting substantial sections, developing figures, responding to reviewer comments and coordinating co-author contributions. Prepare and present research findings at laboratory meetings,
