Postdoctoral Researcher in Systems Neuroscience

Scientific personnel         ·        Amsterdam        ·      Full time

Faculteit/Dienst: Faculteit der Natuurw., Wiskunde & Informatica
Opleidingsniveau: Gepromoveerd
Functie type: Wetenschappelijk Personeel
Sluitingsdatum: 25.09.2022
Vacaturenummer: 8742

Introduction 

The Cognitive and Systems Neuroscience (CSN) group is seeking a highly qualified and motivated candidate to conduct research activities in the context of an NWO-ENW-M grant in synergistic collaboration with Dr. Christiaan de Kock at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. Current research of the CSN group focuses on neural mechanisms of perception, multisensory integration, interactions between sensory and memory systems, and conscious representation. These topics are addressed using a variety of methods, such as ensemble recordings in task-performing subjects, optogenetics, computational modelling and advanced analysis of neural data.

Building on recent research, you will join a UvA-VU team of scientists that aims to unravel neural mechanisms of multisensory integration and segregation. Specifically, we will address the question how the brain comes to identify different modalities in which sensory changes occur. One of the hypotheses to be tested holds that the cerebral cortex exchanges information already in areas specialized for a single sense. The experimental work will comprise behavioral testing and optogenetics, supplemented with multi-area electrophysiology and/or 2-photon imaging, optogenetics and data analysis.

The postdoctoral research position at the UvA will elucidate the contribution of brain areas and ensembles of neurons, whereas a complementary VU position will focus on disentangling the cellular substrates of multisensory processing, using the same standardized behavioral task. Results will be embedded in an integrated approach with computational modelling and theoretical neuroscience. 

What are you going to do

You are expected to

• perform a series of experiments targeting optogenetic manipulation of cortical areas during a task requiring multisensory change detection, with additional work in multi-area electrophysiology (with e.g. Neuropixels probes), histology and possibly widefield calcium imaging and 2-photon imaging. The experiments are derived from a theoretical framework postulating that interactions between sensory modalities in the cortex subserve multisensory integration as well as segregation, which is deemed essential for conscious perception to arise;
• perform advanced analysis of the acquired experimental data and related datasets and publish the acquired results. You will have access to state-of-the-art facilities for performing experiments, behavioral training and data analysis and collaborate with group members in these activities. Animal facilities, as well as biotechnical and ICT support, are available;
• interact with local researchers, colleagues at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam and several international consortia, which will be conducive to the success of the project;
• take on tasks in student supervision and guidance at the Bachelor and/or Master level. 

What do we require

• a PhD degree (finished or submitted to the assessment committee), preferably in systems neuroscience or related field;
• one or more first-author data manuscripts published in peer-reviewed journals or submitted;
• significant experience in in vivo optogenetics, animal behaviour, electrophysiology (silicon probes or similar technology) and/or neuronal imaging (2-photon and/or widefield calcium imaging) and surgical techniques;
• demonstrable experience in animal training and behaviour; 
• experience in, or at least affinity with, computational neuroscience and/or theory of consciousness;
• experience in computer programming language (Matlab, Python) and neural data analysis;
• possession of a FELASA B (article 9) license for animal experiments;
• fluency in English, both written and spoken.

Our offer

We offer you a temporary employment contract for 38 hours a week, for the duration of 12 months preferably starting on 1 November 2022.  An extension of 24 months is possible upon a good evaluation. 

Your salary, depending on your relevant work experience on commencement of the employment contract, ranges between €2,846 to €4,490 gross per month on the basis of a full working week of 38 hours. This sum does not include the 8% holiday allowance and the 8.3% year-end allowance. A favorable tax agreement, the 30% ruling, may apply to non-Dutch applicants. The Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (CAO NU) is applicable.

Are you curious about our extensive package of secondary employment benefits like our excellent opportunities for study and development? More information can be found here. 

About us 

The University of Amsterdam is the largest university in the Netherlands, with the broadest spectrum of degree programmes. It is an intellectual hub with 30,000 students, 6,000 employees and 3,000 doctoral students who are all committed to a culture of inquiring minds and scientific excellence.

The Faculty of Science has a student body of around 8,000, as well as 1,800 members of staff working in education, research or support services. Researchers and students at the Faculty of Science are fascinated by every aspect of how the world works, be it elementary particles, the birth of the universe or the functioning of the brain. 

The Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences (SILS) is one of the Faculty of Science’s largest institutes. Its approximately 240 scientists and staff members work in 16 research groups that perform excellent research centered on four themes: Neurosciences, Cell & Systems Biology, Microbiology and Green Life Sciences.

Do you want to know more about our organization? Read more about working at the University of Amsterdam.

Questions

Do you have questions about this vacancy? Or do you want to know more about our organization? Please contact: 

• Prof. Dr. Cyriel Pennartz 

        + 31 (0)20 525 7618

• Dr. Umberto Olcese 

        + 31 (0)20 525 7968 

Job application

If you feel the profile fits you, and you are interested in the job, we look forward to receiving your application. You can apply online via the button below. We accept applications until and including 25 September 2022. We aim to invite potential candidates for interviews in the first half of October 2022.

Applications should include:

• a cover letter with your motivation to apply for this position;
• a CV, including a list of publications;
• contact information for at least two academic referees.

Please mention the months (not just years) in your cv when referring to your education and work experience.

The UvA is an equal-opportunity employer. We prioritize diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for everyone. We value a spirit of enquiry and perseverance, provide the space to keep asking questions, and promote a culture of curiosity and creativity.

If you encounter Error GBB451, reach out to our HR Department directly. They will gladly help you continue your application.

No agencies please.

Please click here to apply.