Missions

The recruited person will join the "Physiology of Neural Networks" team and will be in charge of a research project aimed at understanding the mechanisms of integration of cerebellar information in pyramidal cells and interneurons of the motor cortex in vivo. Main missions include conducting in vivo calcium imaging experiments, developing behavioral analysis protocols, analyzing and interpreting experimental data, contributing to the publication of results in international journals, and participating in the training of team members.

Activities

Main activities:

Performing stereotaxic surgeries on mice
Setting up and conducting in vivo calcium imaging experiments
Electrophysiological recordings with optogenetic stimulations
Developing apparatus to study behavior (microcontrollers, 3D printing, small-scale robotics)
Development of manipulanda necessary for the execution of motor tasks
Development and implementation of behavioral protocols
Analysis of imaging data
Programming analysis tools (Python/Matlab)

Associated activities:

Participation in team meetings and seminars
Presentation of results at conferences
Writing scientific articles
Contribution to technical supervision of personnel in training

Skills

Knowledge:

PhD in Neuroscience
In-depth knowledge of neurophysiology
Mastery of in vivo recording techniques in rodents
Strong knowledge of embedded electronics and microcontroller architecture (Arduino, ESP32)
Expertise in neuroscience data analysis
Proficiency in Python and/or Matlab
Excellent level of English required (minimum C1 level of the European framework)

Know-how:

Confirmed experience in stereotaxic surgery in mice
Practice of behavioral analyses
Ability to develop data analysis scripts
Ability to design, prototype and integrate experimental devices based on microcontrollers (Arduino, ESP32) for the instrumentation of behavior in rodents

Interpersonal skills:

Rigor and organization in conducting experiments
Ability to work in a team
Excellent communication
Autonomy in project management

Work Context

The position is based at the Institute of Cellular and Integrative Neuroscience (INCI, Strasbourg), CNRS UPR 3212. The institute has 11 teams (120 people including 48 researchers) and has state-of-the-art infrastructures in imaging, electrophysiology and behavior.
The "Physiology of Neural Networks" team studies the mechanisms of information integration in neural networks, particularly in motor control structures. The work will be performed under the supervision of Dr. Antoine Valera, as part of the ANR DendroGABA project.

Constraints and risks

Handling of biological products
Use of surgical equipment
Compliance with laboratory hygiene and safety rules
Mandatory training in animal experimentation
Shifted working hours and weekend work occasionally required during long behavioral experiments

Additional Information

University catering nearby
Easy access by public transport (tram, bus)
Stimulating scientific environment with access to state-of-the-art equipment