Job ID: 121805

2 Funded PhD positions in synaptic neurophysiology, Institute of Neuroscience, Alicante

Position: Ph.D. Student

Deadline: 1 May 2025

Contract Length: 4 years

City: San Juan de Alicante

Country: Spain

Institution: Instituto de Neurociencias

Department: Cellular and Systems Neurobiology

Description:

We are searching for two motivated individuals interested in researching the first principles that allow networks of neurons to process information.  The focus will be on the physiology and molecular biology of synaptic vesicle trafficking and exocytosis within presynaptic terminals.

Background: Synapses have long been thought to function as straightforward relays of information between neurons.  However, it is now becoming clear that the strength of individual synaptic connections is modulated dynamically at essentially all synapses, and that the modulation determines how information is processed within neural circuits.  Multiple synaptic vesicle trafficking mechanisms are involved, and we  have identified a new modular sub-synaptic architecture that operates as a multiplexed array of independentally tunable band-pass frequency filters. We believe that the new concepts that are emerging will help us identify the first principles that will be key for understanding how information is processed and stored within brains and other complex neuronal systems throughout the animal kingdom. More information can be found at <http://www.wesseling-lab.com>.

Applicants should send their CV, a brief statement of interest and the name/contact of 2-3 references to john.wesseling@csic.es.  Experience in cellular electrophysiology, optical imaging, molecular biology and/or biochemistry would be helpful, but we are ultimately looking for bright individuals who are fascinated by how brains work.  Mentorship for future career development will be a priority. The Institute of Neurosciences in Alicante, Spain, is one of the centers of excellence in Neuroscience in Europe, fully dedicated to the study of modern Neuroscience from development to biological computation and primary causes of disease.  It provides an excellent training environment with vibrant research and international faculty and students.