Efficient representations of fast dynamic stimuli in populations of ON- and OFF-cells

Within the DFG priority program "Evolutionary Optimisation of Neuronal Processing" and in an experiment-theory collaboration with the Benda/Grewe lab in Tübingen, we are looking for a PhD candidate to work on signal transmission of time-dependent signals in the electrosensory system of weakly electric fish. Specifically, we are interested in the following research questions:

1. How are high-frequency signals efficiently encoded in ON-OFF-pathways despite strongly reduced firing rates?

2. What is the impact of feedback on the representation of high-frequency information in ON- OFF-pathways?


In order to get an idea about similar approaches pursued in the past, have a look at some of the joint publications of the Benda lab and the Lindner group:

Fisch et al.  J. Neurosci. 32, 17332 (2012)
Sharafi et al.  J. Comp. Neurosci.  34 , 285 (2013)
Grewe et al.  PNAS 114 E1977 (2017)
The successful candidate should have a degree in physics, mathematics or computational neuroscience (a background in neurobiology is desirable but not obligatory), programming skills (C++, Python, LaTeX, Linux), an excellent command of the English language, good communication skills, team spirit, and, last but not least, great enthusiasm for interdisciplinary projects.

Funding is provided for three years, starting in the fall 2024. For details on the doctoral examination process at the Physics Department of Humboldt University Berlin, see https://fakultaeten.hu-berlin.de/en/mnf/wisskar/promotionen/zula.

Applications, including a letter of motivation, a CV, and a list of three potential referees should be sent by email to 

me
benjamin.lindner@physik.hu-berlin.de 
(cc to  officebl@bccn-berlin.de)

The deadline for applications is July 17, 2024, however, later applications might also be considered.

Kind regards,

Benjamin Lindner 

-- 
Benjamin Lindner 
Professor for Theory of Complex Systems and Neurophysics

BCCN Berlin
Philippstr. 13, Haus 2, 10115 Berlin 
Room: 1.17, phone: 0049(0)302093 82492 (new number!!) 

Physics Dep. Humboldt University Berlin
Newtonstr. 15 12489 Berlin
Room: 3.412, phone: 0049(0)302093 7934

http://people.physik.hu-berlin.de/~lindner/index.html 
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