We are seeking a talented and motivated candidate for a doctoral position to work on the neural basis of territorial representation and its modulation by Oxytocin. The doctoral position is financed by a Synergy ERC grant "OxytocInSpace" (https://erc.europa.eu/news-events/news/erc-synergy-grants-2022-project-highlights), attributed to a consortium of expert researchers in spatial navigation and oxytocin neuromodulation.
The objective of the doctorate is to investigate the functional properties of neurons coding for space in the macaque (e.g. place cells, boundary cells, grid cells) and determine how they respond to sociospatial parameters of ownership, utility, and social hierarchies under territorial settings in freely moving animals. Based on previously identified connections between the Oxytocin system and the hippocampal regions, we will determine how Oxytocin regulates territorial behavioral and neural expressions in a context-dependent manner. Ideally the doctoral applicant has a background in Neuroscience and/or computer science/programming, and experience in neurophysiology, DREADD manipulation, data analysis, and experimental work with non-human primates.
The work entails participating to experimental designs, conducting experiments in macaques via wireless equipment, and performing data analysis. Individuals with interest in spatial navigation and sensory/cognitive processing are encouraged to apply. Excellent statistical skills and computational modeling are a plus.
