High quality research training
The Lindsey Lab is committed to high quality research training in a supporting learning environment. Trainees joining the lab can expect stimulating and challenging projects at the leading edge of neural stem cell research. Specific projects are designed with Dr. Lindsey, taking into account the level of technical experience and research background of trainees. Opportunities to collaborate with other laboratories, and with other animal models, are also available on a project-to-project basis.
Fundamental to the Lindsey Lab is that trainees have the opportunity to develop and expand their technical skillset, critical thinking, as well as their written and oral scientific communication. These skills form the foundation not only for a successful career in academic research, but are transferable to a wide range of careers, including government, public health, medicine, and the private sector. All projects in the Lindsey Lab are publication driven, and as such, provide trainees with experience in data collection, data analysis, manuscript writing, and the peer review process. Attendance at local, national, and international conferences provide trainees with the chance to showcase and discuss their research findings with other students and colleagues and develop their professional skills. Additionally, Dr. Lindsey encourages more experienced trainees to contribute to the direct training of more junior members of his team.
Advanced cellular imaging methods and molecular techniques
The Lindsey Lab uses a combination of advanced cellular imaging methods (fluorescence confocal, live in vivo imaging, scanning and transmission EM, correlative EM, tissue clearing and 3-D imaging), and molecular techniques (transgenics, immunohistochemistry, in situ hybridization, PCR, RNA-sequencing) to understand context-dependent changes in neural stem cell behaviour from early brain development until senescence in the zebrafish model. The transparency of zebrafish embryos and larvae make them highly amenable to real-time studies of neural stem cell populations and how these populations are perturbed with environmental stimuli, disease, and injury. This early optical transparency is complemented in adulthood by a multitude of distinct neural stem cell niches with stem and progenitor populations optimally suited to study neurogenic plasticity and regeneration.
Graduate student trainees
Graduate student trainees joining the Lindsey Lab in the Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science are expected to fulfill course requirements in accordance with departmental regulations and the Faculty of Graduate Studies at the University of Manitoba. These courses are typically designed to broaden the student’s breadth of knowledge, while also providing relevant theory or technical skills related to their research focus. Coursework is in addition to the MSc or PhD thesis. MSc candidates wishing to transfer into the PhD program may do so within the first 18-months of their MSc training upon approval by Dr. Lindsey, the student’s graduate committee, and successful completion of the PhD transfer exam.
