Applications are invited for a postdoctoral research associate to study visual learning and attention brain circuits in mice. The post is based in the lab of Dr Jasper Poort in the Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience at the University of Cambridge. The successful candidate will work on a research project funded by the Wellcome Trust that will investigate the neural circuit mechanisms of visual learning and attention (see Poort et al., Neuron 2015, Khan et al, Nature Neuroscience 2018, Poort et al, Neuron 2021).
The project combines two-photon calcium imaging, electrophysiology and optogenetic manipulation of different cell types and neural projections in visual cortical areas and decision-making brain areas to understand how mice (including mouse models of neurodevelopmental disorders) learn to become experts in different visually-guided decision-making tasks and flexibly switch attention between tasks. The successful applicant will join a supportive and multi-disciplinary research environment and collaborate with experts on learning and attention in rodents and humans, experts on learning and attention impairments in mental disorders, and computational neuroscientists.
Applicants should have completed (or are about to submit) a PhD (research associate) or (under)graduate degree (research assistant) in neuroscience, biology, engineering, or other relevant disciplines. We are looking for someone with previous experience in two-photon imaging/electrophysiology/optogenetics/pharmacology/histology and behavioural training in mice, and strong data analysis skills (e.g. Matlab or Python).
The research position is available from Feb 2022 onwards for an initial 2 year period with the possibility for extension. For more information about the lab see https://www.pdn.cam.ac.uk/svl/.
Apply here: https://www.jobs.cam.ac.uk/job/32860/
In addition to the cover letter, CV, and contact details of 2 references, applicants are asked to provide a brief statement (500 words) describing the questions and approach they consider important for the study of the neural circuits for learning and attention in mice and their future research ambitions.
The closing date for applications is 15th January 2022.
Informal enquiries about the position can be made to Jasper Poort (jp816@cam.ac.uk).
References:
Poort, Wilmes,Chadwick, Blot, Sahani, Clopath, Mrsic-Flogel, Hofer, Khan (2021). Learning and attention increase neuronal response selectivity in mouse primary visual cortex through distinct mechanisms. Neuron https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuron.2021.11.016
Khan, Poort, Chadwick, Blot, Sahani, Mrsic-Flogel, Hofer (2018). Distinct learning-induced changes in stimulus selectivity and interactions of GABAergic interneuron classes in visual cortex. Nature Neuroscience https://doi.org/10.1038/s41593-018-0143-z
Poort, Khan, Pachitariu, Nemri, Orsolic, Krupic, Bauza, Sahani, Keller, Mrsic-Flogel, Hofer (2015). Learning Enhances Sensory and Multiple Non-sensory Representations in Primary Visual Cortex. Neuron https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuron.2015.05.037

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