PhD-Student in Cellular Neuroscience

at  Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

YOUR FUNCTION

The CNCR in Amsterdam (see www.cncr.nl) participates in the Graduate School ONWAR (www.ONWAR.nl) and is seeking applications for a PhD-student in cellular neuroscience (Synaptic physiology, High-resolution imaging) for the Department of Functional Genomics, VU/Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam.
Project: Molecular mechanisms of functional diversity in synaptic networks

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Molecular specializations of pre- and post-synaptic compartments arise from genetic, environmental, and activity-dependent signaling pathways that are active during synapse formation and plasticity, and disrupted in neuropathology. These processes diversify the properties of synaptic transmission and activity-dependent plasticity in neuronal networks, and are critical for the brain’s information processing and memory storage functions.
Synapse-type-specific plasticity, although well-characterized at the network level, remains poorly understood at the molecular level. The aim of this project is to investigate how target-specific differences in the molecular composition, nanoscale organization and dynamics of synaptic receptor complexes tune synaptic transmission efficacy, activity-dependent plasticity, and information processing in neuronal networks.
We have recently developed new endogenous protein labeling strategies and imaging techniques for studying how glutamate receptor organization influences synaptic transmission and plasticity, both in situ, in brain slice preparations, and in vivo. In this project, we will exploit these advanced molecular tools and imaging techniques to investigate how the molecular diversity and unique nanoscale organization characteristics of synapses arise, and how this in turn defines their functional properties.
You will gain hands-on experience in slice electrophysiology, CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing, endogenous protein labeling methods, 2-photon functional imaging techniques using biosensors and optogenetic tools for visualizing and manipulating synapse function, and ultrafast 4D and super-resolution imaging with lattice light-sheet microscopy.
You will be appointed in Amsterdam and work primarily in Amsterdam, where you will be able to exploit a variety of methodology, equipment, and analysis tools established here. As part of an international research network, you will have opportunity to visit other labs during the PhD training and work with a team of experts in molecular neuroscience and advanced imaging technologies.

YOUR PROFILE

We are looking for a student with the following qualifications:

• A Master’s degree in biomedical sciences, with a specialization in neuroscience
• Previous experience in molecular and cellular neuroscience, especially with the methods described above
• Hands-on experience with image analysis and programming
• Motivation to pursue a career in science

DIVERSITY

We are an inclusive university community. Diversity is one of our most important values. We believe that engaging in international activities and welcoming students and staff from a wide variety of backgrounds enhances the quality of our education and research. We are always looking for people who can enrich our world with their own unique perspectives and experiences.
The Faculty of Science inspires researchers and students to find sustainable solutions for complex societal issues. From forest fires to big data, from obesity to medicines and from molecules to the moon: our teaching and research programs cover the full spectrum of the natural sciences. We share knowledge and experience with leading research institutes and industries, both here in the Netherlands and abroad.
Working at the Faculty of Science means working with students, PhD candidates and researchers, all with a clear focus on their field and a broad view of the world. We employ more than 1,250 staff members, and we are home to around 6,000 students.

Please refer the Job description for details