Postdoctoral researcher in neuroscience – ex vivo studies on the prefrontal cortex in mice - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

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Division

The position regards the lab of Marie Carlén, associate professor in the Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Campus Solna. Utilizing a systems neuroscience approach the lab of Marie Carlén studies the cellular logic of information processing in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) with the aim to elucidate what the PFC is and how it works. The studies are mainly performed in behaving mice using large-scale electrophysiological recordings or calcium imaging of neuronal activity. Optogenetics and circuit tracing are other central technologies, as is slice electrophysiology. The lab is recognized for its discoveries on inhibitory interneurons expressing parvalbumin and their role in cortical oscillations, cognition, and behavior. For more information see: www.carlenlab.org

Duties

The hired postdoc will be responsible for our ex vivo studies (e.g., electrophysiology and voltage imaging in brain slices) complementing our in vivo work on the functions of the PFC. A central theme regards cellular mechanisms involved in learning - processes underlying organisms’ dynamic behavioral adaptations to ever changing environmental affordances. The hypothesis that the PFC directs the dynamic and long-term adaptions in synaptic transmission underlying learning processes will be addressed. The recruited researcher will also contribute to our further studies of the cellular underpinnings of the generation of cortical oscillations. The work also requires and involves in vivo approaches, including circuit targeting and labelling in transgenic rodents. There are also great possibilities to be involved in in vivo registration of neuronal activity in behaving animals, e.g., using high-density electrophysiology or 2-photon imaging.

Applicant profile

We are seeking to recruit a highly motivated and experienced researcher with documented doctoral and/or postdoctoral experience and expertise (including 1st author publications) aligning to the outlined duties. Close collaboration, open and honest communication, and active contribution to the theoretical aspects of the research are expected, as is the ability to plan and work independently. Apart from the required expertise, the applicant is expected to be fluent in English (spoken and written). Proficiency in programming and documented experience of advanced data analysis, particularly electrophysiological data, is meriting.

Entry requirements

Scholarships for postdoctoral qualification can be established for foreign researchers who place their qualifications in Sweden. The purpose of scholarships for postdoctoral qualification is to promote internationalization and contribute to research qualification after a doctorate or equivalent.
A scholarship for carrying out postdoctoral research can be granted for a maximum of two years within a four year period following the receipt of a doctoral degree or equivalent.
To be eligible for a postdoctoral scholarship, the person must have obtained a doctorate or a foreign degree deemed to be equivalent to a doctorate. Applicants who have not completed a doctorate at the end of the application period may also apply, provided that all requirements for a completed degree are met before the (intended) start date of the post doctoral education.

The head of the department determines whether their previous training and scholarly qualifications correspond to a Swedish doctorate or higher.

Location: Solna

Type of scholarship

The amount is tax free and it is set for twelve months at a time, paid out on a six months basis. In exceptional cases, shorter periods may be acceptable.

Application process

An application must contain the following documents in English or Swedish:

• A complete curriculum vitae, including date of the thesis defence, title of the thesis, previous academic positions, academic title, current position, academic distinctions, and committee work
• A complete list of publications
• A summary of current work (no more than one page)
• A letter of motivation, with direct relevance to the advertised position
• Verifications for crediting of illness, military service, work for labour unions or student organisations, parental leave or similar circumstances
• Verification from the thesis defence committee or the equivalent (only if the thesis defence is scheduled within three months after the application deadline)

The application is to be submitted on the Varbi recruitment system.

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