One position as doctoral fellow (SKO 1017) is available at the Department of Physiology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences (IMB), University of Oslo. The position is associated with the laboratory of Associate Professor Torkel Hafting for a period of 3 years. The position is available immediately.

The IMB pursue education and research to promote basic medical knowledge in order to understand normal processes, provide insight into mechanisms that cause illness, and promote good health. More information about the Institute can be found here: link

The IMB has a strategic ambition of being a leading research faculty. Candidates will be selected in accordance with this, and expected to be in the upper segment of their class with respect to academic credentials.

Job description

A better understanding of the mechanisms underlying neural processing and plasticity is of utmost importance to understand and promote healthy development, learning, and recovery from disease. In our laboratory we study cortical circuits at multiple levels from subcellular structures to network activity in behaving animals. A more complete understanding of brain function requires cross-disciplinary efforts where computational modeling is used to develop coherent theoretical frameworks from empirical data.

We are searching for a highly motivated candidate with strong interest in cortical circuits. The candidate will use state of the art in vivo recording techniques (large-scale extracellular recordings or multiphoton imaging), and computational modelling to investigate cortical microcircuits. Genetic and optogenetic perturbations will be used to identify cell-specific contributions to these processes. In parallel with experiments, computational models will be developed. We offer broad training possibilities in the required experimental methods within a stimulating academic environment.

Qualifications

Relevant candidates must have a strong background in neuroscience, with an emphasis on computational or mathematical sciences and interest for multidisciplinary research. Experience in computational science is seen as essential. First-hand experience with in vivo electrophysiological recordings and/or computational neuroscience is considered a strong advantage for the position.

Applicants must hold a M.D. or MSc in Neuroscience with an interest in doing a PhD which involves both experimental and theoretical (computational) work.

The candidate should be able to work independently and structured, while at the same time engage in close collaborations. Emphasis will be attributed to team-working abilities and personal skills.

In assessing the applications, special emphasis will be placed on the relevance of the candidate’s background.

The fellowship requires admission to the PhD program at the Medical Faculty at the UiO. For more information see:http://www.uio.no/english/research/doctoral-degree-and-career/phd/application/

A good command of English is required.