Postdoctoral researcher in Neuroscience

 

2 year contract, FTE
Salary scale 11 (3195-3422€ gross per month, depending on experience)

The neurodevelopmental disorder of mental retardation affects between 2-3% of the population worldwide (WHO data 1997). A characteristic feature of many forms of mental retardation is abnormal morphology of synaptic spines on neuronal dendrites in the brain. The functional consequences of abnormal spines on early developmental ‘wiring and firing’ patterns to form the brain are not clearly understood.

This project funded by the Dutch government (NWO), will focus on neuronal connectivity during early postnatal brain development in mouse models of X-linked forms of mental retardation. Research will be based in the Integrative Neurophysiology Department in the CNCR, part of the VU University Neuroscience Campus Amsterdam (www.neurosciencecampus-amsterdam.nl ). Candidates with skills in imaging and electrophysiology (including field recordings and/or patch- clamping methods) and a strong background in developmental neurobiology are preferred. The Neuroscience Campus Amsterdam and INF department offer a multidisciplinary, English-speaking environment in which to work, with weekly seminars and journal clubs. The post will bring opportunities to present work at international conferences and future collaborations with other research groups in the CNCR using optogenetics, immunohistochemistry and behavioural techniques.

For further information about the research group and an overview of the departmental research environment, see www.rhisearch.com or http://www.cncr.nl/departments/ (section Department of Integrative Neurophysiology). To apply, send your CV incl. listed publications and covering letter stating your research interests and motivation in neuronal connectivity and developmental neurobiology to Dr R. Meredith rmered@falw.vu.nl. Application deadline 5th April 2011.