Thesis based on study of an insect neural circuit underlying flexible memory formation (M/F)

Job Description

Thesis Subject

Position
The “Recurrent Circuits, Learning and Memory” team is recruiting a PhD student to study the neuronal mechanisms underlying flexible memory formation in the Drosophila melanogaster larva. The project will combine behavioural, neurogenetic and in vivo calcium imaging approaches using two-photon microscopy.
Research activities
We study the fundamental principles underlying associative learning by investigating the neuronal circuits of the Drosophila larval brain. This system is characterized by low neuronal redundancy, allowing the functional contribution of individual neurons to complex behaviours to be investigated. In addition, the circuits involved in learning exhibit a high degree of recurrence.
By combining neurogenetic tools, advanced behavioural analyses, in vivo imaging and connectome data, we aim to understand how interactions within these recurrent circuits influence memory formation and decision-making.
As part of this PhD project, the successful candidate will investigate the neuronal dynamics associated with learning and memory formation within the mushroom body, combining genetic manipulation, behavioural experiments and functional imaging.
The main activities will include:
- Literature review and analysis of the scientific literature
- Design and implementation of genetic crosses
- Planning and conducting behavioural experiments
- Setting up and conducting in vivo calcium imaging experiments using two-photon microscopy
- Analysis and interpretation of experimental data
- Rigorous maintenance of laboratory notebooks and organization of experimental data
- Regular presentation and discussion of results within the research team
- Writing and presenting scientific results, including scientific publications and conference presentations

Required skills and qualifications
- Master's degree in neuroscience or a related field
- Previous experience with Drosophila melanogaster and/or calcium imaging (confocal or two-photon microscopy) would be an advantage
- Strong interest in fundamental neuroscience and in the neuronal mechanisms underlying learning and memory
- Good analytical and scientific reasoning skills
- Basic knowledge of statistics and programming (e.g. Python or Matlab)
- Good scientific communication skills in English, both written and spoken
- Rigor, autonomy and ability to work as part of a team

Your Work Environment

Research environment
This project is funded by an ANR grant starting at the end of 2026.
The research conducted by the team is broadly framed within the theoretical framework of reinforcement learning, with the aim of developing a multi-scale understanding of the neuronal mechanisms underlying learning and memory.
The project will be carried out within the scientific environment of the Paris-Saclay Institute of Neuroscience (NeuroPSI), which provides an interdisciplinary research environment and the equipment required to implement the proposed approaches.

Compensation and benefits

Compensation

2300 € gross monthly

Annual leave and RTT

44 jours

Remote Working practice and compensation

Pratique et indemnisation du TT

Transport

Prise en charge à 75% du coût et forfait mobilité durable jusqu’à 300€

About the offer

About the CNRS

The CNRS is a major player in fundamental research on a global scale. The CNRS is the only French organization active in all scientific fields. Its unique position as a multi-specialist allows it to bring together different disciplines to address the most important challenges of the contemporary world, in connection with the actors of change.

CNRS

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