Job Title: MSc Opportunity in Developmental Biology

Location: Halifax Nova Scotia

Job Type: Graduate Student

Description: Explore how cells build the skeleton during embryonic development

Are you a recent graduate in biology, biochemistry, genetics, zoology, or another related science discipline and curious about how organisms develop?

The Franz-Odendaal Bone Development Lab at Mount Saint Vincent University (Nova Scotia) is seeking a highly motivated student to join our research team for a fully funded, two-year MSc position beginning in September 2027.

This exciting project will investigate how cells that give rise to skeletal structures develop and change over time, with a particular focus on the ocular skeleton of avian embryos. You will examine patterns of gene expression within and between cell populations at different stages of embryonic development, providing an opportunity to gain hands-on experience at the intersection of developmental biology, cell biology, embryology, histology, and gene expression.

What you’ll do
As part of the project, you will have the opportunity to:
• Investigate the cellular and molecular processes that shape the developing skeleton.
• Compare gene expression patterns across different cell populations and developmental stages.
• Work with avian embryos as developmental biology models.
• Develop practical research skills in areas such as embryology, histology, microscopy, and gene expression analysis.
• Work closely with an experienced research team while developing your own scientific independence.
• Build transferable skills in experimental design, data analysis, scientific communication, and research.

Previous experience in embryology, histology, or gene expression is an asset, but it is not required. We are particularly interested in students who are curious, motivated to learn, and excited by biological discovery.

Why join us?
This is an opportunity to launch your graduate research career in a supportive laboratory environment where you can develop both your scientific expertise and confidence as a researcher.

The Franz-Odendaal Lab is committed to creating a positive, inclusive, and collaborative work environment, with an emphasis on mentorship and work-life balance. Whether you are considering a career in research, further graduate studies, biotechnology, health sciences, or another science-related field, this MSc will provide valuable hands-on research experience and a strong foundation for your next step.

Program & Funding
• Degree: MSc in Natural Science
• Institution: Mount Saint Vincent University, Nova Scotia
• Duration: 2 years
• Start date: September 2027
• Funding: Fully funded position

Interested?
If you are a recent science graduate who is enthusiastic about biology, enjoys asking questions, and wants to gain meaningful research experience, we would love to hear from you.
Please submit the following to: Prof. Tamara Franz-Odendaal (tamara.franz-odendaal@msvu.ca):
• An unofficial transcript
• A recent CV
• A brief statement describing your motivation for pursuing this MSc and your interest in the project
• The names of two academic references

Come join us in exploring how cells come together to build the vertebrate skeleton—and gain the research skills to take your next step in science.

Application Email Address: tamara.franz-odendaal@msvu.ca

Company Name: Mount Saint Vincent University

Application Close Date: December 11, 2026