Why are brains the way they are? Do neural circuits function in an “optimal” way, and if so, in what sense are they optimal? How do brains encode sensory information and form associative memories?
Andrew Lin's lab at the University of Sheffield is seeking postdoctoral research associates to study these fundamental questions in neuroscience in the olfactory system of the fruit fly Drosophila. We aim to discover neuronal plasticity mechanisms that underlie associative memory and the maintenance of optimal sensory coding, in the Drosophila mushroom body (the fly’s olfactory memory centre). Of special note to the comp-neuro email list, we are particularly looking for at least one of the postdocs we hire to have expertise in computational neuroscience. We seek to tie computational models of what plasticity rules would be ‘optimal’ for memory, with experiments testing whether the real brain actually uses these ‘optimal’ rules. This research will use a range of techniques including: in vivo two-photon calcium imaging, electrophysiology, fly genetics, behavioural experiments, computational modelling and building custom equipment. The exact project can be tailored to your background, but expertise in at least some of these techniques is essential, along with a PhD in a relevant field (or equivalent experience), excellent communication skills and an ability to work in a team. We welcome self-motivated, innovative, and creative applicants from a range of academic backgrounds, including biology, neuroscience, experimental psychology, computer science, physics and engineering. Closing date: 4 April 2023 Apply at this link: https://bit.ly/LinPostdoc2023 More about the lab: https://www.aclinlab.org/ Expected start date: 1 September 2023 (earlier or later start date may be possible, happy to discuss) We welcome international applicants and the university will reimburse the post-holder for many visa expenses: https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/jobs/induction/before/international/visas For informal enquiries, contact Andrew: [email protected] -- Andrew Lin School of Biosciences University of Sheffield Firth Court Western Bank Sheffield S10 2TN +44 (0) 114 222 3643 http://www.aclinlab.org
