We are looking for a Postdoc candidate to study the role of specific nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) and of a frequent human nicotinic receptor gene variant in cocaine use disorders in preclinical models.
Addiction-like behaviours and related striatal neuromodulation will be investigated through the combination of intravenous cocaine self-administration (SA) and fiber photometry in transgenic rats. The project is part of a transversal study that will further include preclinical and clinical drug testing. The contract will be for a minimum of two years and should start in the summer 2025.
The hosting lab ‘Integrative Neurobiology of Cholinergic Systems’ investigates, through combined approaches from molecular and cellular biology to behavioural and cognitive neuroscience, the role of nAChRs in a set of neurobiological functions, notably in the context of neurodegenerative and psychiatric diseases, at the Department of Neuroscience of the Institut Pasteur of Paris.
Candidates should imperatively have strong expertise in intravenous drug SA in rats. Fiber photometry training will be provided. Applications should include a CV, the academic achievements, a brief statement of research interests including past experiences and names of at least two referees. Please contact Morgane Besson (morgane.besson@pasteur.fr) (https://research.pasteur.fr/en/member/morgane-besson/).
For further information about the hosting lab visit https://research.pasteur.fr/en/team/integrative-neurobiology-of-cholinergic-systems/.