Aging & Cognition Research Group German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases Company Logo Magdeburg Germany

PostDoc – Grid Cell Coding in Preclinical Alzheimer’s Disease

 
The German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) is among the top 10 institutions in Alzheimer’s Disease Research world-wide, and among the top three with respect to citations & collaborations (Elsevier Report 2019). We are looking for a Postdoctoral Researcher (f/m/d) working on grid cell coding in preclinical Alzheimer’s Disease to join the Aging & Cognition research group of Prof. Thomas Wolbers at the DZNE site in Magdeburg, Germany.
 
 
This position is part of an exciting interdisciplinary project – funded by the CoEN initiative – in collaboration with the groups of Mark Brandon (McGill University) and Ila Fiete (MIT). The overall aim is to characterise how computations in the entorhinal grid cell system are affected in early Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Using a combination of cutting‐edge interactive virtual reality (VR) and ultra-high field neuroimaging, you will develop innovative VR paradigms and use computational models to generate novel predictions for altered spatial coding in preclinical AD. Importantly, the successful candidate will closely interact with the collaborating labs and will also be encouraged to work on translating the experimental findings into clinical tools.
 
In addition to hosting research dedicated 3T and 7T MRI and MR-PET scanners, the Magdeburg site of the DZNE provides access to EEG, MEG, TMS and eye tracking systems. Furthermore, the lab has a range of cutting-edge VR setups, and it entertains a range of international collaborations. Finally, Magdeburg offers a unique intellectual environment, because spatial navigation is a core theme investigated across several animal and human research groups.
 
 
What we are looking for
For this position, excellent statistical and programming skills (e.g. in Python, R, Matlab) and strong interest in dementia and computational modelling are essential. A background in neuroimaging is a plus. You will be thorough, efficient, a good communicator, and enjoy working as part of an international and dynamic team. For further information about this unique opportunity, please email Thomas Wolbers (thomas.wolbers@dzne.de). To learn more about our research, please visit www.wolberslab.net and follow us on Twitter (@WolbersLab).
 
What we offer
The position is available initially for 2 years, with a strong intention to be extended for a considerably longer time. The position is available from 01 September 2020, but applications will be considered until the position is filled. Interested candidates should submit their applications including a CV, a letter stating research interests and two of the usual references.
 
 
The DZNE is an equal opportunity employer. It especially welcomes and encourages disabled individuals to apply.
 
 
To submit your application please visit: jobs.dzne.de/en/jobs/40528/form
 
 
Further reading
  • Lester, A., Moffat, S., Wiener, J.M., Barnes, C.A., & Wolbers, T. (2017). The Aging Navigational System. Neuron, 95(5), 1019–1035.
  • Stangl, M., Achtzehn, J., Huber, K., Dietrich, C., Tempelmann, C., & Wolbers, T. (2018). Compromised grid-cell-like representations in old age as a key mechanism to explain age-related navigational deficits. Current Biology, 28(7), 1108-1115.
  • Stangl, M., Kanitscheider, I., Riemer, M., Fiete, I.R. & Wolbers, T. (2020). Sources of path integration error in young and aging humans. Nature Communications.
 
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Prof. Dr. Thomas Wolbers
Aging & Cognition Research Group
German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE)
Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg
Leipziger Str. 44
39120 Magdeburg
GERMANY
 
phone: +49-391-67-24519
website: www.wolberslab.net
Twitter: @WolbersLab
 

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