http://www.nature.com/naturejobs/science

Predoctoral positions in Neuroscience : Pamplona, Spain

Two predoctoral positions are available in the Cellular Neurobiology Lab, Neuroscience Department, CIMA, University of Navarra, Spain (www.cima.es/areas/neurosciences).

We are searching for highly motivated, hard-working and enthusiastic individuals with an interest in Neuroscience. Our group combines modern molecular/cell biological, electrophysiological, and optical imaging techniques to understand basic mechanisms of synaptic function and mechanisms of dysregulation in neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders.

Students will contribute to one of the following projects:
1) Study of mechanisms underlying disrupted synaptic signaling and homeostasis in Huntington´s disease. The project will involve the characterization of electrophysiological deficits in vulnerable brain structures and testing new molecular strategies to rescue the deficits (Nature Medicine, 19, 1030). A background in math or physics, or experience with electrophysiology techniques will be valued for selecting the student for this project.
2) Study of glutamate receptor developmental regulation in neural circuit remodelling and memory, with an emphasis in dissecting the underlying gene expression programs, their behavioural correlates and links to brain disease (Trends Neuroscience 28, 229; Nature Neuroscience, 9, 611; Nature Neuroscience, 9, 598; Neuron, 63, 342; PNAS, 110, 20807). This project will involve the characterization of novel molecular pathways, and in vivo injection of lentiviral vectors to manipulate the pathways in vivo. Closely related projects already ongoing involve receptor trafficking and regulation using biochemical and imaging methods. Experience in molecular biology, mouse behaviour and genetics, protein biochemistry, or fluorescence imaging will be valued.

CIMA is an exciting research center with world-class facilities in Pamplona (Northern Spain), funded by both private and public national and international agencies. Our laboratory provides a bilingual scientific environment, equipped with modern facilities, and consisting of students and postdocs from a wide range of countries and cultures. In addition, our team has established a number of national and international collaborations with leading groups worldwide.

A strong academic record and knowledge of English is required. Interested candidates should submit CV and contact information for 3 references to: Dr. Isabel Pérez-Otaño, otano@unav.es or Dr. John Wesseling jwesseling@unav.es, Neuroscience Department, CIMA, Pamplona, Spain.

The positions will be funded for 4-year terms….

Job details

Employer:CIMA/University of Navarra

Location:Cellular Neurobiology Lab, Avda Pio XII, 55, Pamplona, Spain

Expires:June 24, 2014

Job type:PhD Studentship

Salary:Unspecified

Qualifications:Postgraduate - Master's degree

Employment type:Contract

Job hours:Full-time