One funded M.Sc. graduate student position is available in Dr. Sousa’s lab at the University of Manitoba. Our research program focuses on respiratory physiology and mechanical ventilation across the continuum of critical illness. We integrate advanced monitoring techniques, such as lung and diaphragm ultrasound, esophageal pressure monitoring, and electrical impedance tomography (EIT), to better understand how mechanical ventilation affects the lungs and respiratory muscles, and how to individualize ventilatory support to improve patient outcomes.
Upcoming Projects
- Extra-diaphragmatic respiratory muscle dysfunction during mechanical ventilation: Studying structural and functional changes in accessory respiratory muscles using ultrasound and other physiologic measurements.
- Optimizing PEEP and ventilation strategies using advanced monitoring: Comparing different methods (e.g., EIT, esophageal pressure) to determine “optimal PEEP” in models of acute lung injury and in critically ill pediatric patients.
Training and Skill Development
Students in the lab will gain experience in:
- Acquisition and analysis of physiologic and imaging data (ultrasound, EIT, respiratory mechanics)
- Signal processing and quantitative data analysis (e.g., R, Python, or similar)
- Study design, research ethics, and critical appraisal of the literature
- Dissemination of research findings through conference presentations and peer-reviewed publications
Candidate Profile
Interested candidates should:
- Hold (or be about to complete) a B.Sc. or professional degree in Respiratory Therapy, Physiology, Biomedical Sciences, Kinesiology, Biomedical Engineering, Nursing, or a related discipline.
- Have a strong interest in respiratory physiology, critical care, and mechanical ventilation.
- Demonstrate good problem-solving skills, initiative, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
- Prior experience with any of the following is considered an asset but not required:
- Respiratory or cardiovascular physiology research
- Bedside mechanical ventilation or critical care clinical experience
- Quantitative data analysis (R, Python, MATLAB, or similar)
- Medical ultrasound or other imaging modalities
The successful applicant will be expected to apply and enroll in the M.Sc. program in Rehabilitation Sciences at the University of Manitoba and to meet all program admission requirements.
We are committed to creating an inclusive, equitable, and culturally safe research environment and strongly encourage applications from individuals who identify as members of equity-deserving groups.
How to Apply
Please send a single PDF file including:
- Cover Letter (1–2 pages) describing your background, research interests, and motivation for pursuing an M.Sc. in this area
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic transcripts
- Names and contact information of two referees (or two reference letters, if already available)
to:
Dr. Mayson Sousa at Mayson.Sousa@umanitoba.ca
