Post doc in Computational dissection of aberrant spatial arrangement of excitatory/inhibitory dendritic synaptic inputs in epilepsy
ItalyCommitment & contract: Post-doctoral fellow, 2 years
Location: Genova, Italy
Step into a world of endless possibilities, together let’s leave something for the future!
At IIT, we are committed to advancing human-centered Science and Technology to address the most urgent societal challenges of our era. We foster excellence in both fundamental and applied research, spanning fields such as neuroscience and cognition, humanoid technologies and robotics, artificial intelligence, nanotechnology, and material sciences, offering a truly interdisciplinary scientific experience. Our approach integrates cutting-edge tools and technology, empowering researchers to push the limits of knowledge and innovation. With us, your curiosity will know no bounds.
We are dedicated to providing equal employment opportunities and fostering diversity in all its forms, creating an inclusive environment. We value the unique experiences, knowledge, backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives of our people. By embracing diversity, we believe science can achieve its fullest potential.
THE ROLE
You will be working in a collaborative framework between the Synaptic Plasticity of Inhibitory Networks and the Sensory Processing and Computation Research Units, coordinated by Andrea Barberis and Peter Neri, respectively, two multicultural and multi-disciplinary groups, where junior and senior scientists collaborate, each with their expertise, to carry out a scientific activity with a shared research goal.
The research focuses on the investigation of how the spatial organization of excitatory and inhibitory synaptic inputs on layer 5 pyramidal neurons in the somatosensory cortex contributes to the pathophysiology of epilepsy. Specifically, we focus on the disorganization of dendritic synaptic patterns in a murine model of epilepsy lacking one allele of the GABRA1 gene, which encodes the α1 subunit of GABAA receptors. Using a combined experimental and computational approach, we will map the distribution of excitatory inputs from layer 2/3 pyramidal neurons and thalamic afferents as well as inhibitory inputs from PV+ and SOM+ interneurons in the basal and proximal dendrites of layer 5 neurons. These inputs will be tracked through advanced imaging techniques, such as two-photon microscopy and optogenetics, in both wild-type and epileptic models (Task 1). Parallel computational models will simulate how alterations in the spatial arrangement of synaptic inputs affect dendritic integration and neuronal output, potentially leading to aberrant network activity and seizures. This integrative approach aims to identify the relationship between synaptic disorganization and epileptic network dynamics, providing insights into the mechanisms driving absence seizures and informing future therapeutic strategies (Task 2).
The selected candidate will be primarily involved in Task 2. She/he will also have the opportunity to participate in Task 1 depending on her/his interest/willingness (and time availability).
ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS
- Applicants are expected to have completed, or be nearing completion of, a doctoral degree specializing in computational neuroscience, or at a minimum incorporating a substantial computational component. For those with prior postdoctoral experience, this experience would preferably be in the area of computational neuroscience
- It is not necessary that prior modeling experience is in the specific area of dendritic architectures and/or neuronal modeling at subcellular scale. However, candidates with expertise in these areas will be prioritized.
- Strong publication record
- Good command of spoken and written English
ADDITIONAL SKILLS
- Experience in machine learning, compartmental neuron modeling, statistical inference for population analysis
- Knowledge of ML libraries (PyTorch/TensorFlow), NEURON simulation environment, HPC infrastructure
- Ability to work in a challenging and international environment
- Capacity to work autonomously and collaboratively in a highly interdisciplinary environment
- Possess Analytical Reasoning skills and a growth mindset
COMPENSATION PACKAGE
- A yearly gross salary of 40K
- Private health care coverage
- Candidates from abroad or Italian citizens who have carried scientific research activity permanently abroad and meet specific requirements, may be entitled to a deduction from taxable income of up to 90% from 6 to 13 years.
Please submit your application using the online form and including a detailed CV and contact details of 2 references.
Application’s deadline: August 30th 2025
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