Call for PhD Position: Neural Circuit Basis of Visual Attention and Distraction
Position: Ph.D. Student
Deadline: 30 November 2025
Country: Spain
Department:
Description:
The Kardamakis Lab at the Instituto de Neurociencias (UMH–CSIC) in Alicante, Spain, invites applications for a PhD position to study the neural circuit basis of visual attention and distraction in mice.
This call aims to identify one outstanding candidate to be nominated for two upcoming doctoral fellowship programs (mid-November 2025 and/or mid-January 2026).
Research Objective
Our research objective is to decode and manipulate the neural computations spanning diverse neocortical and midbrain circuits that transform visuospatial saliency into orienting motor actions. We investigate how visual attention, distraction, and decision variables interact to control goal-directed visual search behavior. Through this work, we aim to reveal how attention-deficient and other brain disorders disrupt—and how targeted interventions might restore—the computations that link seeing, choosing, and acting.
Methods we use
Our expertise lies in integrating quantitative behavioral paradigms with advanced in vivo and ex vivo approaches. We combine and develop methods using optogenetics, chemogenetics, fiber photometry, Neuropixels recordings, genetically encoded voltage imaging, machine learning–based activity behavioral decoding, and computational modeling, together with whole-cell recordings, monosynaptic rabies tracing, and in situ hybridization for circuit mapping.
Current research directions include:
- Visual Search and Distraction in Freely Moving Mice
- Top-Down Control of Visual Saliency in Fronto–Mesencephalic Circuits
- Functional Circuit Connectivity and Synaptic Integration in the Superior Colliculus
Candidate Profile
We seek a motivated and creative student with a strong interest in systems and circuit neuroscience. Experience in at least two of the following is advantageous:
- Mouse behavior (freely moving or head-fixed)
- Programming and data analysis (Python, MATLAB)
- Optogenetics, calcium, or voltage imaging
Applicants should hold (or be completing) a Master’s degree in Neuroscience, Biomedical Engineering, Physics, or a related discipline. Prior publications are desirable. The selected candidate will receive mentorship to prepare a competitive fellowship proposal and project plan.
How to Apply
Send a single PDF to with the subject line: “PhD Fellowship Application – (Your Name)” with:
- A short cover letter (max 1 page) describing your motivation and preferred project area
- A CV with relevant experience and academic record
- Contact information for two referees
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the fellowship deadlines.
About the Lab
The Neural Circuits in Vision for Action Unit at the Instituto de Neurociencias (UMH–CSIC) is located on the sunny Mediterranean coast of Alicante, Spain.
- Cui, Peng, et al. (2025). Recurrent circuits encode de novo visual center–surround computations in the mouse superior colliculus. PLoS Biology, 23(10): e.
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