Post-doc Position for Computational/Experimental Auditory Research

POSTDOC POSITION For computational/experimental research in the auditory system

Description
Currently seeking applicants for studies on the neural bases of auditory function: experimental determination and modeling of dynamic response properties of neurons/circuits in the auditory pathway, brain stem to cortex. Of initial focus are ionic and synaptic currents and dendritic properties that enable brain stem neurons to perform temporally precise (sub ms) computations. We develop and analyze biophysically-based and idealized models, in conjunction with on-going in vitro experiments that typically we design and carry out here, sometimes in collaboration with labs elsewhere. Neuronal and circuit features that mediate temporal and rate encoding in and into higher areas are also under study.

In the Rinzel-lab projects cover a range of topics in dynamics of neuronal systems, at the cellular and network level, including biophysically-based models as well as idealized, phenomenological models, in deterministic and stochastic frameworks. (consult Pub Med for our papers.) Projects typically involve close collaboration with experimentalists and often hands-on involvement with experiments. The Rinzel-working group is interdisciplinary, members with backgrounds in physics, math, neuroscience,… The rich environments of CNS (http://www.cns.nyu.edu ) and the Courant Institute (http://www.cims.nyu.edu ) offer many opportunities for career development in computational and experimental neuroscience and in applied math through seminars, lab meetings, formal courses and interaction with other CNS/Courant groups.

Application

A desirable candidate as a theorist will have skills and knowledge in applied math, neurophysiology, and physics, and experience with dynamical systems, simulation, and computational modeling of neuronal systems. A neuroscientist candidate should have experience in modeling and in electrophysiology, in vitro patch clamping. The initial appointment is for 2 years, annually renewable thereafter.

Send your CV and a statement of goals to
Prof John Rinzel
Center for Neural Science, NYU
4 Washington Place, Rm 809
New York, NY 10003
E-mail: rinzel AT cns DOT nyu DOT edu

MIT: Postdoctoral Positions

MIT: Posdoctoral Positions

Yanik Lab: www.rle.mit.edu/Yanik

Description
Postdoctoral positions are available in Yanik Lab at MIT (www.rle.mit.edu/Yanik). We are interested in:
(I) development of novel neuro-technologies,
(II) discovery of genetic pathways and drug candidates targeting neural degeneration and regeneration using both in vivo and in vitro high-throughput methods, and
(III) translational research using human embronic stem cell (hESC) derived neurons.

We did the first study of neural regeneration in C. elegans using femtosecond laser microsurgery (Nature 432, 822 (2004)). We also recently demonstrated the first on-chip high-throughput small-animal screening technology using microfluidics (PNAS, 104, 13891 (2007)). We are currently developing powerful in vivo and in vitro technologies/assays for translational research using hES cell derived neurons.

Application
Candidates with experience in mammalian and/or C. elegans neurobiology and/or engineering/physics/chemistry disciplines are sought. Good communication skills and willingness to work in a highly multidisciplinary and friendly team with other engineers, biochemists and biologists are expected. The postdoctoral positions will be supported through NIH Director’s New Innovator Award, and Packard Fellowship in Science and Engineering as well as other funds. Duration of positions is flexible. Please send a brief letter describing research experience/interest, CV, and contact information of three references to Dr. Yanik, Asst. Prof., Electrical Engineering, MIT. Dr. Yanik will be at the 2007 Society for Neuroscience meeting in San Diego in early November.

For contact information about this position, please email neuroengineering@gmail.com