Neurobot » PhD position in Synapse protein network modelling, Amsterdam

The Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research in Amsterdam (CNCR) and the Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences (SILS) are seeking applications for 1 PhD-student (computational neuroscience/systems biology) fixed term, each 1+3 years

Systems Biology of the Synapse
Synapses are the fundamental processing elements that form the basis for the unsurpassed computational power of our brain. At the same time, synapses are in itself rather simple, well-defined structures of ± 1µm3 with probably a maximum of 2 thousand different types of proteins present. We will apply a systems biology approach to identify protein networks underlying synapse function and to translate this into a realistic dynamical model for synaptic signalling. This PhD project is part of a larger project which contains a “wet” proteomics research line and a “dry” network modelling research line. Researchers on both research lines will collaborate intensively. This project is supported by and embedded in the Netherlands Institute for Systems Biology (NISB).
Research project: Synapse Protein Network Modeling
The project consists of two phases. First the network of interaction
between synaptic proteins (interactome) has to be established form prior knowledge, existing data and data generated in the “wet” proteomics research line. The important proteins that play a role in the functioning of the synapse can then be identified in the network. The tools to be used in this research are primarily from network theory, statistics and computer science. In the second phase of the project the dynamic interactions of the proteins that form core-hubs in the synaptic interactome will be modeled using coupled linear differential equations. Model parameters are fitted from experimental data on synaptic signaling in hippocampal neurons. Model predictions will be experimentally tested in our lab.
Suitable candidates:
Candidates with a master degree in Mathematics, Statistics, (Bio)physics, Computational Neuroscience, or Systems biology and an interest in neuroscience. A strong motivation to pursue a career in science, an interest in working as a team and the ability to work across disciplines are required.
Applications and more info
Please send CV and cover letter to Els Borghols at els.borghols(at)cncr(dot)vu(dot)nl with position 32B subject line *_before January 15^th , 2009_*.
More info can be obtained from Matthijs Verhage (project coordinator) at matthijs.verhage(at)cncr(dot)vu(dot)nl or Niels
Cornelisse at niels.cornelisse(at)cncr(dot)vu(dot)nl