Connectionists: PhD and Postdoc positions in network modeling of the olivocerebellar system

[Erik De Schutter]

The Computational Neuroscience Unit of Dr. Erik De Schutter at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (http://www.irp.oist.jp/cns/people.html) has two positions for large scale network modeling of the olivocerebellar circuit available. We have built in parallel NEURON an anatomically detailed 3D network model of cerebellar cortex with physiologically realistic neural spiking and synaptic properties. The goal is on one hand to further refine the cerebellar cortex model and expand it to include cerebellar nuclei and olivary nucleus and more detailed representation of mossy finer input. Meanwhile the model will be used to simulate different aspects of the function of this network, including but not limited to population coding in the cerebellar cortex, effect of distributed synaptic plasticity on cerebellar learning and the interaction between the multiple feedback loops present. Candidates are expected to interact with other researchers and students in the lab who are working on related modeling projects at the molecular, cellular and systems levels. 

We offer attractive financial and working conditions in an English language environment located on a beautiful subtropical island. More information about the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology is available at http://www.oist.jp/

Both positions are available immediately and will remain open till filled. Postdoc candidates should have experience in data-driven neural network modeling, preferentially using the NEURON simulator, or in cerebellar physiology. They will be employed by OIST.  PhD candidates should have backgrounds in either neuroscience/neurophysiology or in theoretical sciences or informatics, a firm interest in biologically driven modeling is required. PhD candidates will be recruited under the CEREBNET ITN network and registered as students in biomedical sciences at the University of Antwerp, with a division of time between Belgium and Japan that is negotiable. Initial contracts for 2 years, extensible.

Send curriculum vitae, summary of research interests and experience, and the names of three referees to Dr. Erik De Schutter at erik at oist.jp