CIFAR MacMillan Multiscale Human School
CIFAR MacMillan Multiscale Human School
The CIFAR MacMillan Multiscale Human School brings together PhD students and postdoctoral fellows across the globe with interests in early development to delve into the challenges and gold standards of human research, exploring interdisciplinary models to build a virtual twin that accurately captures development. Hosted by members of the CIFAR MacMillan Multiscale Human program, the School will be held on May 5-6, 2026 in Vancouver, Canada.
Contact us for more information.
Participants will:
- Engage in structured debates on topics such as the role of AI in solving problems or discussing the necessity of "real" in vitro systems in the lab;
- Enhance their communication skills to engage with diverse fields and learn to decompose complex biological problems;
- Learn tools necessary to navigate discussions on various topics in developmental biology and related fields;
- Network with peers and world-renowned scientists;
- Participate in teamwork activities that involve creating pseudocode models based on real biological questions.
Travel and accommodation for all successful applicants will be paid for by CIFAR.
Interested applicants must be senior (third year or later) PhD students, or post-docs. Applicants are required to submit a CV as well as a short description of their research that details how the school would benefit their future scientific careers.
Selection
Applications are reviewed internally for basic eligibility before being assessed by members of the CIFAR MacMillan Multiscale Human program. Applicants are evaluated based on their research statement, track record, and connection to the theme.
CIFAR is committed to creating a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment and research community. We welcome proposals from countries and institutions from across the globe.
Key Dates
- Application deadline: December 17, 2025
- Notification of decision: January 2026
- School: May 5-6, 2026
ORGANIZERS
Maria Abou Chakra
Muzlifah Haniffa
Fellow
Nika Shakiba
Nozomu Yachie
Fellow
University of British Columbia
University of Tokyo
