[visionlist] Doctoral positions for theoretical work to investigate circuit mechanisms of network activity in the early cortex (at FIAS Frankfurt, Germany)

[Matthias Kaschube]

The group of Matthias Kaschube at the Frankfurt Institute for Advanced Studies (FIAS) is seeking doctoral students for theoretical work to study the origin of distributed modular activity in the early developing neocortex.

The positions are funded by a US-German CRCNS Research Grant joint with experimental neuroscientist Gordon Smith at the University of Minnesota (UMN), Department of Neuroscience. Our goals are to reveal the organization of functional networks in the neocortex at very early stages in development and to dissect the circuit motives that produce these early patterns of neural activity. To accomplish these goals, we combine mathematical modeling and advanced data analysis methods with highly sensitive calcium imaging and pharmacological and optogenetic methods for up-and down-regulating specific circuit components. The computational part of the project will be conducted at FIAS, and includes many opportunities for collaboration and exchange with Dr. Smith’s group at UMN. The project extends our previous joint work (Smith et al., Nat Neurosci, 2015 & 2018).

This is an excellent opportunity for individuals with a strong quantitative background (physics, computer science, engineering or a related field). Prior knowledge in neuroscience is advantageous, but not required.

Frankfurt is an internationally oriented city with high quality of living and many neuroscience institutes in the neighbourhood, e.g. the Max Planck Institute for Brain Research, the Max Planck Institute for Empirical Aesthetics, the Ernst Struengmann Institute for Neuroscience in Cooperation with Max Planck Society, and the Interdisciplinary Center for Neuroscience. 
For the Kaschube Group and FIAS see https://www.fias.science/en/neuroscience/research-groups/matthias-kaschube/

Interested candidates are invited to send their application materials in electronic form (PDF format) to kaschube at fias.uni-frankfurt.de. Applications should contain a brief statement of intent, a curriculum vitae, and the names of at least two scientists who can give references. The advertisement will be valid until positions are filled. Individuals interested in the experimental portion of the joint project may also contact Gordon Smith at gbsmith at umn.edu.

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