Postdoctoral Positions in Systems Neuroscience - McCormick Lab

Help us figure out how the mammalian brain works!  An outstanding, highly-motivated post-doctoral fellow is sought to participate in studies on the cellular/network mechanisms of cortical and thalamocortical network function.

We are investigating the mechanisms by which the optimal state for detection and discrimination performance is achieved in mouse neocortex.  Mice are trained to perform visual and auditory detection/recognition/discrimination tasks. Through state-of-the-art techniques, such as two-photon monitoring of activity in known neuromodulatory axons in the cortex, whole cell recording of synaptic activity, high density array recordings (Neuropixels probes) of cortical unit activity, and optogenetic manipulation of specific transmitter systems, we are able to determine and decipher the role of different transmitter systems and neural pathways that rapidly control neuronal responsiveness.  We have recently shown that the waking state varies on a continual basis and that these fluctuations account for a large component of response and behavioral variance.  We take a circuit-based approach to systems neuroscience, revealing how the nervous system achieves a goal through the synaptic interaction of cells in local and long range circuits, modulated by neurotransmitters, to generate flexible behavior. 

We are located in the Institute of Neuroscience at the University of Oregon, which is expanding with the addition of the new Knight Campus for Biomedical Science.  Oregon offers a high quality lifestyle with the opportunity to participate in many outdoor activities.  You will be joining an exciting scientific atmosphere that offers amazing work/life balance.

Support:  Postdoctoral fellows are well supported with state-of-the-art equipment dedicated to their experiments.  Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience and contribution.

Lab website: ion.uoregon.edu/content/david-mccormick

Please contact davidmc@uoregon.edu with inquiries and applications.  Send statement of interest, CV, and the names of three people for letters of recommendation.  Positions available through academic year 2022/2023.

Ph.D. in Neuroscience or related fields.  Prefer in depth knowledge of systems neuroscience and computational tools for analysis (e.g. matlab, suite 2P, python, etc.).