POST DOCTORAL FELLOWSHIP - MACHINE LEARNING & ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN NEUROSCIENCE

Primary Purpose: The Taghibiglou Research Group (Dr. Changiz Taghibiglou, https://neuroscience.usask.ca/people/faculty/dr.-changiz-taghibiglou.php; https://medicine.usask.ca/profiles/anatomy-physiology-pharmacology/changiz-taghibiglou.php ) at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) in collaboration with Clinical Colleagues: Dr. Andrew Kirk (Div. Neurology, U of S), Dr. Ravi Nrusimhadevara (Dept. Ophthalmology, U of S), Dr. Melody Wong (Dept. Ophthalmology, U of S), (Dr. Kerry Bishop (Optometrist, private practice) and Dr. Francisco Cayabyab (Dept. Surgery, U of S) are looking to recruit a talented and motivated Neuroscience postdoctoral fellow. In addition to neuroscience research experience, having familiar with machine learning/AI/ big data processing will be an asset. A major part of this PDF responsibility is to explore innovative machine learning strategies for analyzing patients existing OCT and OCT-A images in Saskatchewan Optometry and Ophthalmology clinics as well as internationally available data sources such as UK Biobank and eventually come up with algorithm useable for the early detection of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Parkinson’s disease (PD).
Nature of Work: In this project, we will analyze existing optical coherence tomography (OCT) and optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A) in Saskatchewan (Saskatoon, Regina, and Prince Albert) eye doctor clinics and internationally available data sources in healthy aged individuals and patients diagnosed with AD and PD (sex and age matched) for alterations in optical and retinal layers thickness/density. Our goal is to use machine learning technology/AI as a tool to analyze these images and come up with an algorithm to be utilized for early detection of AD/PD when the patient has no visible sign and symptoms.
This project is team-based, collaborative, and interdisciplinary.
Accountabilities: The PDF will report directly to Dr. Taghibiglou. The selected candidate will be expected to play a leadership role in the project, providing training and guidance to junior undergraduate and graduate students.
Education: A PhD in Neuroscience, Computational Neuroscience, Machine Learning in image analysis, or a related field, with significant experience in OCT and OCT-A image analysis.
Experience: The selected candidate should have an established Neuroscience skillset particularly in Machine Learning and writing algorithm. Previous experience in brain image analysis is ideal but not required.
Skills: The candidate should have the skills and experience necessary to independently analyze OCT and OCT-A images of optical nerve and retinal layers, perform statistical analysis of collected data and write relevant algorithm. Good writing and presentation skills are ideal for scientific communication.
To Apply: Interested applicants must include the following in their application: cover letter, curriculum vitae, and a publication from their previous research work showcasing their skills relevant to this posting
Department: Anatomy,Physiology,Pharmacolgy
Status: 1 year expandable to 2 year pending new funding
Employment Group: Postdoctoral Fellows - PSAC
Full Time Equivalent (FTE): 1.0
Salary Information: The starting salary will be commensurate with education and experience.
Posted Date: 7/18/2025
Closing Date: Open until filled
Number of Openings: 1
Work Location: On Campus
The University is committed to employment equity, diversity, and inclusion, and are proud to support career opportunities for Indigenous peoples to reflect the community we serve. We are dedicated to recruiting individuals who will enrich our work and learning environments. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, in accordance with Canadian immigration requirements, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority. We are committed to providing accommodations to those with a disability or medical necessity. If you require an accommodation to participate in the recruitment process, please notify us and we will work together on the accommodation request. We continue to grow our partnerships with Indigenous communities across the province, nationally, and internationally and value the unique perspective that Indigenous employees provide to strengthen these relationships. Verification of Indigenous Membership/Citizenship at the University of Saskatchewan is led and determined by the deybwewin | taapwaywin | tapwewin: Indigenous Truth policy and Standing Committee in accordance with the processes developed to enact the policy. Successful candidates that assert Indigenous membership/citizenship will be asked to complete the verification process of Indigenous membership/citizenship with documentation. The University of Saskatchewan’s main campus is situated on Treaty 6 Territory and the Homeland of the Métis. We pay our respects to the First Nations and Métis ancestors of this place and reaffirm our relationship with one another. Together, we are uplifting Indigenization to a place of prominence at the University of Saskatchewan

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