Two postdoctoral positions, one empirical and one computational, are available in the interdisciplinary research group of Drs. Jennifer Luebke (Boston University School of Medicine, Boston MA) and Christina Weaver (Franklin & Marshall College, Lancaster PA) starting as early as April 2016. The research project involves the assessment of the detailed structure and function of cortical and striatal neurons in mouse models of Huntington’s disease, and computational modeling of these neurons. Experimental approaches will make extensive use of in vitro slice electrophysiology (whole-cell patch-clamp recordings) and cellular imaging techniques (primarily confocal fluorescence microscopy). Computational modeling of the empirically characterized neurons will use parameter optimization algorithms developed in the Weaver lab, and will eventually be incorporated into local microcircuits and larger cortico-striatal networks.  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.

Applicants should have a strong background in neuroscience and/or modeling, and have a keen interest in imaging, biophysical, and computational approaches in neuroscience research.  Review of applications will begin March 10, 2016, and will continue until the positions are 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 or jluebke@bu.edu.

Required Skills

* For Empirical position (Boston, MA):  Experience with electrophysiology and/or confocal imaging is preferred.  Additional background or strong interest in computational neuroscience is a plus.

* For Modeling position (based in Lancaster, PA with occasional travel to Boston):  Experience with NEURON compartmental modeling software and/or automated parameter optimization is preferred. 

* Excellent written and verbal communication skills

* Ph.D., M.D. or equivalent from an accredited institution

* We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We are a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.

Job Location

Boston, Massachusetts and Lancaster, Pennsylvania, United States

Position Type

Full-Time/Regular

Salary

Conditions and remuneration will be according to the regulations of the National Institutes of Health for postdoctoral trainees.