***  Second announcement – submit by March 24, 2016 for full consideration ***

POSTDOCTORAL FELLOW in Computational Neuroscience

Job Description

The interdisciplinary research team of Drs Christina Weaver (Mathematics, Franklin & Marshall College, Lancaster PA) and Jennifer Luebke (Anatomy & Neurobiology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston MA) is launching a project to explore structural and functional abnormalities of neurons in two different mouse models of Huntington’s Disease, and how these abnormalities might contribute to system-level dysfunction.  Computational modeling of cortical and striatal neurons (both spatially extended compartmental models and point neuron models) will be conducted in tandem with empirical studies of these same neurons using in vitro slice electrophysiology and confocal laser scanning microscopy.  The neuron models developed in this project will be incorporated into models of local microcircuits and larger cortico-striatal networks, likely in collaboration with other research teams, and will be used to inform future experiments.  As part of this project, one postdoctoral position in computational neuroscience is available, starting in April 2016 or as soon as possible thereafter. Computational modeling of the empirically characterized neurons will use parameter optimization algorithms developed in the Weaver lab.  For an overview of our interdisciplinary approach, see our joint publications including Luebke et al., Cerebral Cortex (2015), PMID 24323499 and Coskren et al., J. Comput. Neuro. (2015), PMID 25527184.  The Weaver lab will have close, ongoing collaborations with the Luebke lab, including several visits to Boston where the empirical studies will take place.  Initial appointment is for one year, and may be extended to a total of three years.  The candidate will be hired by Franklin & Marshall College, though a remote employment arrangement may be possible.

Applicants should have a strong background in computational neuroscience, and have a keen interest in interdisciplinary approaches to neuroscience that integrate modeling, imaging, and physiological experiments.  Review of applications will begin immediately, and will continue until the position is filled.  Interested applicants should send their CV, a brief statement of current and future research interests, and the contact information of three references to christina.weaver@fandm.edu.

Required Skills

Ph.D. or equivalent in computational neuroscience or a related field from an accredited institution

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Experience with NEURON compartmental modeling software, conductance-based modeling of single neurons, and/or automated parameter optimization is preferred. 

Franklin & Marshall College is committed to having an inclusive campus community where all members are treated with dignity and respect. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, the College does not discriminate in its hiring or employment practices on the basis of gender, sex, race, ethnicity, color, national origin, religion, age, disability, family or marital status, sexual orientation, or any protected characteristic.