Call For PhD Position: Neural Circuit Basis Of Visual Attention And Distraction
Relaciones Laborales y Recursos Humanos UMH invites applications for a PhD position to study the neural circuit basis of visual attention and distraction in mice. The position is located at the Instituto de Neurociencias (UMH–CSIC) in Alicante, Spain.
Position: Ph.D. Student
Deadline: 30 November ****
Country: Spain
Department: Kardamakis Lab, Instituto de Neurociencias (UMH–CSIC)
Research Objective: Decoding and manipulating the neural computations spanning diverse neocortical and midbrain circuits that transform visuospatial saliency into orienting motor actions, investigating how visual attention, distraction, and decision variables interact to control goal-directed visual search behavior, and exploring interventions to restore disrupted computations.
Methods: Integration of quantitative behavioral paradigms with advanced in vivo and ex vivo approaches, including optogenetics, chemogenetics, fiber photometry, Neuropixels recordings, genetically encoded voltage imaging, machine learning–based activity‐behavioral decoding, computational modeling, whole-cell recordings, monosynaptic rabies tracing, and in situ hybridization for circuit mapping.
Current Research Directions:
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: Motivated and creative student with a strong interest in systems and circuit neuroscience. Willing to study in a lab that values collaboration and training in advanced neurotechniques.
Qualifications:
Hold (or be completing) a Master's degree in Neuroscience, Biomedical Engineering, Physics, or a related discipline.
Experience in at least two of the following: – Mouse behavior (freely moving or head‐fixed); – Programming and data analysis (Python, MATLAB); – Optogenetics, calcium, or voltage imaging.
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]" and include: a short cover letter (max 1 page) describing 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 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.
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