Call for PhD Position: Neural Circuit Basis of Visual Attention and Distraction
Position: Ph.D. Student
Deadline: 30 November ****
Country: Spain
Description: The Kardamakis Lab at the Instituto de Neurociencias (UMH–CSIC) in Alicante, Spain invites applications for a Ph.D. 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 **** and/or mid‐January ****).
Research Objective: Decoding and manipulating 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: Integration of quantitative behavioral paradigms with advanced in‐vivo and ex‐vivo approaches. Techniques include 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. 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]".
Include:
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.
Reference: Cui, Peng, et al. *****). Recurrent circuits encode de novo visual center–surround computations in the mouse superior colliculus. PLoS Biology, 23(10): e*******.
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