Post Doctoral Associate- Dr Hooks Lab

Postdoctoral Position Available to Track Cell Type Specific Connectivity Changes in Cortex

A postdoctoral position is available in the Hooks labs at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine for a highly motivated researcher interested in developing a novel method to map synaptic connectivity of cortical circuits underlying motor control during changes such as motor learning and neurodegeneration. The proposed project will be a collaboration with the Ross Williamson lab in Otolaryngology, using in vivo two-photon imaging as well as slice-based recording. Our lab uses state-of-the-art methods for circuits mapping: cell-type specific mice to identify subtypes of pyramidal neurons, stereotaxic surgery, and viral vectors to target, label, excite, and manipulate selected neurons, and neurophysiological methods to map local and long-range circuits. We are looking at which circuits change in the motor cortex and how this relates to motor performance and learning.

Applicants must have a Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Engineering, or other relevant field and at least one year of postdoctoral experience. An ideal candidate will have experience with whole-cell recording approaches and programming skills (MATLAB preferred). Scientific creativity, excellent verbal and written communication skills, and technical expertise are essential. Interested candidates should send a curriculum vitae (CV), a cover letter stating research interests, and contact information for three references to Bryan (Mac) Hooks (hooksm@pitt.edu). More information about our labs is available at:

https://www.neurobio.pitt.edu/people/bryan-mac-hooks

The Neurobiology Department at the University of Pittsburgh has exceptional resources and opportunities for career development and collaboration with a number of other leading laboratories interested in understanding cortical circuits and motor control. The neuroscience community in Pittsburgh (including the Departments of Neuroscience, Neurobiology, Otolaryngology, Psychiatry, Biomedical Engineering, and Mathematics at Pitt, as well as Carnegie Mellon University) is extensive.

Interested candidates should attach a brief statement of research interests and CV to requisition #23005329.

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