White matter structural connectivity and microstructure underlying cognition without a neocortex using ultra-high field diffusion MRI

KEY WORDS

CITY

COUNTRY

France

DETAILS OF THE OFFER

Working place:  CEA Saclay – NeuroSpin

Missions:

Using a tool requires higher-order cognitive functions that have so far mostly been investigated in humans and other primates, individuals that possess a cerebral cortex organized in six different layers. However, such tool-use behaviours have also been observed in other species such as parrots and cichlids that are lacking the six-layered neocortex observed in mammals. This indicates that higher-order cognitive functions can be obtained with anatomical structures different from the mammalian cortex. As birds, teleosts and primates have evolved independently from one another, the question of the necessary conditions for the emergence of such cognitive abilities arises.

The objective of this PhD is to characterize the structural connectivity responsible for such functions in cockatiels and cichlids for which the connectivity between associative and motor areas will be particularly investigated. To do this, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), a key tool for the study of brain anatomy and function will be used. In particular, diffusion MRI allows to probe the structure of the brain at the mesoscopic and microscopic scales by looking at the diffusion process of the water molecules in the cerebral tissue. It enables to highlight the white matter fiber pathways – where the diffusion process is strongly anisotropic – and to study the connectivity between cortical regions. This project is part of a national research (ANR) project in collaboration with NeuroPSI, Centre de Recherche en Neurosciences de Lyon (CRNL), and NeuroSpin.

Qualifications:

This project requires computer developments (Python, C++) and scientific knowledge on MRI physics. The candidate must hold a Master’s degree or an engineering degree in medical imaging, stemming from a university or an engineering school. He/she must be familiar with neuroimaging and show an interest in neurosciencies. Finally, the candidate should be organized , show initiative and should be able to interact in a multidisciplinary environment.

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TYPE OF JOB

TYPE OF CONTRACT

CDD (Temporary / 3 years contract)

APPLICATION DEADLINE

EMPLOYMENT START DATE