Postdoctoral positions in modeling, imaging, and optogenetics (Boston University School of Medicine) The Luebke & Medalla labs (Dept. of Anatomy & Neurobiology, Boston University School of Medicine) use state-of-the-art approaches in imaging, immunohistochemistry, electrophysiology, and computational modeling to explore neural mechanisms underlying executive function in the mammalian prefrontal cortex. We seek highly motivated, detail-oriented postdoctoral research fellows to join our interdisciplinary team related to several exciting, federally funded projects. Read more about our research here <https://www.bumc.bu.edu/anatneuro/research/cellular-neurobiology/>. Modeling: This project, led jointly by Dr. Jennifer Luebke, Dr. Christina Weaver (Dept of Mathematics, Franklin & Marshall College, Lancaster, PA), and Dr. Patrick Hof (Dept of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York NY), aims to characterize changes in the prefrontal cortex and visual cortex during normal aging in the rhesus monkeys. We seek candidates with experience building differential equations-based mathematical models using MATLAB, Python, and/or NEURON compartmental modeling software. Experience with conductance-based modeling of single neurons or excitatory-inhibitory networks preferred. The successful candidate will build computational models to explore mechanisms of network dysfunction, constrained by our data from aging studies in rhesus monkeys, including new multiplexing data in collaboration with GE Healthcare. Imaging: This project, led by Dr. Luebke and Dr Klaus Wimmer (Centre de Recerca Matemàtica, Barcelona, Spain) and funded by the Collaborative Research in Computational Neuroscience (CRCNS) program, focuses on the computational and neural mechanisms underlying working memory and age-related changes to working memory and other executive function in the rhesus monkey. We seek candidates with an excellent track record using magnetic resonance imaging and image processing techniques to explore scientific questions with high health relevance. The successful candidate will lead analyses of structural MRI (T1 TFE scans), resting state fMRI, and diffusion spectrum imaging (DSI) brain scans to assess brain morphometry and connectivity. Data generated from brain scans will be correlated with behavioral, physiological and other anatomical data collected across the adult life span to inform sophisticated computational models. The project includes unique cross-national training opportunities for researchers in Boston and Barcelona alike. Optogenetics: One project, newly funded by NIH, uses multi-scale neuroanatomical, in vitro, and in vivo electrophysiological, pharmacologic and optogenetic techniques to study inhibitory circuits in the anterior cingulate cortex and lateral prefrontal cortex (ACC and LPFC) of rhesus monkeys, and how limbic input from the amygdala influences communication within the ACC-LPFC network. We seek candidates with expertise in optogenetics, imaging of voltage-sensitive dyes, patch-clamp recording and multiphoton microscopy. The successful candidate will combine anatomical and viral tracing with in vivo electrophysiological recordings in anesthetized preparations, as well as optogenetic stimulation and whole cell patch-clamp recording in in vitro slices, to investigate the cellular and synaptic properties of prefrontal circuits involved in cognitive and emotional control and integration. Each appointment as a Boston University School of Medicine research fellow will be for at least 1 year with the possibility for extension based on performance. Competitive salary based on experience. Interested applicants should attach the following: - A cover letter, - A current CV, - A brief statement of current and future research interests, - The contact information of three references. Please be aware that references may be contacted anytime after receipt of your application. Contact: Dr. Christina Weaver, christina.weaver@fandm.edu or Dr. Jennifer Luebke, jluebke@bu.edu Christina M. Weaver, Ph.D. Associate Chair of Mathematics Associate Professor Franklin & Marshall College P.O. Box 3003 Lancaster, PA 17604-3003 Email: christina.weaver@fandm.edu