Job ID: 95783
Post-doctoral position in neural circuits
Position: Post-doctoral Position
Deadline: 2 October 2022
Employment Start Date: 2 January 2023
Contract Length: 4 years
City: Quebec
Country: Canada
Institution: Université Laval
Department: Biochemistry, Microbiology and Bio-informatics, Neuroscience Axis, CRCHUQ
Description:
A postdoctoral position is available in the lab of Dr. Lisa Topolnik to work on the intricacies of dendritic inhibition provided by somatostatin-expressing interneurons in the hippocampus. The laboratory conducts both basic and translational neuroscience research in the areas of neural circuits, synaptic plasticity, and intracellular signalling. Our current research program is focusing on the cellular diversity and function of cortical inhibitory and disinhibitory circuits formed by different types of interneurons as well as interneuron dendritic integration and synaptic plasticity. Our research strategy is based on combination of electrophysiological, optogenetic, and imaging approaches applied to in vitro and in vivo animal models.
A current PDF project will be focusing on exploring the molecular and cellular basis of dendritic integration in GABAergic neurons. We will study the role of inhibition in dendritic input integration in specific types of interneurons in brain slices obtained from transgenic mice in vitro. A novel optogenetic approach based on a combinatorial targeting of specific cell types for selective manipulations will be developed. The data obtained in vitro will then be integrated for in vivo investigation of the network-state dependent recruitment of specific cell types and their functional role in behaving animals. For this part, we will use cognitive and behavioral animal models in combination with calcium imaging and optogenetic cell type-specific interventions.
Candidates should have a PhD in Neurobiology or a related discipline (with a graduation date within the last 4 years), and at least two first-author papers (published or accepted). Prior experience with patch-clamp electrophysiology, or two-photon imaging in vitro will be required. Additional experience in electron microscopy will be an asset. Full funding provided by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research and the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada is available for up to 4 years. Salary will be commensurate with experience and will include standard benefits as per Laval University regulations.
Applicants are not required speaking French, but a basic knowledge of French language would facilitate local community integration.
The Topolnik lab is part of the Neuroscience Axis of the CRCHUQ at the Faculty of Medicine, and the Dept. of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Bio-informatics at the Faculty of Science and Engineering at Laval University located in the heart of Quebec City. The lab is hosting the NeuroWire platform bringing circuit-minded neuroscientists from all over the world: www.neurowire.ca
Enthusiastic and motivated candidates who are passionate about conducting multidisciplinary research with a focus on neurophysiology are encouraged to contact Dr Lisa Topolnik to discuss the project in more detail. Please submit applications by email to lisa.topolnik@bcm.ulaval.ca
The application should be sent as a single PDF file containing the following:
- Letter of motivation
- Curriculum vitae and publication list
- Name and email address of two referees that can support your application