Post-doc position: ANR project aiming at investigating the impact of previously known modifiers (stress, lithium, and zinc) on multiple behavioral phenotypes identified in a mouse model of SHANK3 deficiency (Shank3 full Knock-Out) and deciphering the potential circuits involved in their effect.
Deadline: November 2023 but review of applications will continue until the position is appropriately filled.
Institut Pasteur/ CNRS – UMR3571 – UNIVERSITÉ PARIS CITÉ – Human Genetics and Cognitive Functions Lab directed by Pr Thomas Bourgeron
Fixed term full-time position (2 years)
Our group gathers psychiatrists, neuroscientists and geneticists and we previously identified several genes associated with autism which code for synaptic proteins. We invite applications for a position as a Postdoc who will be working on two mouse models of autism. The project led by the postdoc will be part of the research program AutismSHANK, an ANR project running 2024-2027 which aims at understanding the impact of previously known modifiers (stress, lithium, and zinc) on multiple behavioral phenotypes identified in a mouse model of SHANK3 deficiency (Shank3 full Knock-Out) and deciphering the potential circuits involved in their effect. We are looking for someone with experience as a postdoc in neurosciences, with, ideally, experience in mouse behavior, brain surgeries and imaging (for Fiber-photometry experiments) and bioinformatics (for RNA sequencing analysis and Python programming for in house behavioral paradigms such as the Live Mouse Tracker (www.livemousetracker.org) Mostly we are looking for someone enthusiastic about research, keen on learning and developing their own line of research, independent but with strong team spirit.
The project: the project consists in investigating the impact of previously known modifiers (stress, lithium, and zinc) on multiple behavioral phenotypes identified in a mouse model of SHANK3 deficiency (Shank3 full Knock-Out) and deciphering the potential circuits involved in their effect. To answer these questions, we will use multiple behavioral paradigms, Ca2+ imaging by fiber-photometry and RNA sequencing in multiple brain areas. The project is founded by an ANR until 2027 and is based on previous studies by the laboratory (see website).
What you will do: You will be expected to lead your own project within the broad range describe above and to take part to collaborative projects with other members of the team. You will be expected to conduct research from behavior and surgery to data analysis. Because we mostly work with open-source software and homemade equipment, you will be able to develop independently the tools you need to carry out your project. This also means, a certain keenness for DIY is welcomed (but not mandatory).
Competences requested: A PhD in neurosciences or a related field is required to start the position. Strong interests in autism and neurodevelopmental conditions, mouse behavior and brain circuitry are necessary. Experience in fiber-photometry in vivo experiment and analysis is important. Ability to speak and write in English is necessary.
The candidate should also have an authorization to experiment and perform surgeries on rodents (project designer, ex-level 1 in France).
Application: The application shall include the following documents: a cover letter including motivation, research interests and visions and long-term goals; a curriculum vitae containing a few lines highlight of the main results (published or not); and details of people you worked with and could be contacted if needed. Please send the application or any enquiries to Dr Elisabeth Verpy (elisabeth.verpy@pasteur.fr) and Dr Benoit Forget (benoit.forget@pasteur.fr).
Applicants from outside the European Union are invited to apply; if they are selected to work on the project, they will have to obtain a VISA (not covered by the project).