Posted June 18, 2010

The Project:
Cryopreservation of gametes and embryos is a common and commercially viable tool in bovine assisted reproductive technologies. It ensures the long term preservation and transport of bovine genetics across the globe. Slow freezing, a common method for cryopreservation of oocytes and embryos, often leads to intracellular ice crystallization and cell damage. Vitrification is an alternate method of cryopreservation in which cells are exposed to a higher concentration of cryoprotectants and frozen with a high freezing velocity, leading to an ice crystal-free glass like structure. At present, vitrification is a popular method for cryopreservation of bovine embryos due to its simplicity and success rate. However, vitrification of bovine oocytes is still challenging due to oocytes' complex structure and sensitivity to chilling. Our data indicates the adverse effect of vitrification on bovine oocytes, at two levels i.e. nuclear maturation and blastocyst formation. In this proposal, we'll attempt to find the effect of cryopreservation on the gene expression of bovine oocytes and embryo using EmbryoGENE Network platform. This will elucidate the poor nuclear maturation and poor blastocyst formation in cryopreserved bovine oocytes and embryos.

Qualifications:
B.Sc. (Animal / Biological Sciences or related field). Knowledge and skills in molecular biology will be asset; Applicant must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.

Starting Date: Immediate.

Stipend: ~16,000 per year

How to Apply:
Please send a resume, a copy of transcripts and the names of three referees to:

Dr. Muhammad Anzar
Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences
Western College of Veterinary Medicine
University of Saskatchewan
52 Campus Drive
Saskatoon, SK S7N 5B4
Tel: (306)956-2900
Fax: (306)966-7376
email: muhammad.anzar@usask.ca

For More Information:
Diane Matovich (diane.matovich@usask.ca), Graduate Secretary, Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, 52 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5B4