Applications are invited for a postdoc position in the Neuroinformatics Group of the Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research (CNCR), VU University Amsterdam, the Netherlands.


The position is funded by the EU-FP7 grant for the Collaborative Large-scale Integrating Project Self-Constructing Computing Systems (SECO – http://www.seco-project.eu/). Using a combined computational and experimental approach, the SECO project investigates the principles by which populations of real or artificial neurons can grow and assemble themselves into functioning circuits.
Our group participates in the SECO project in one of the workpackages on the identification of a minimal set of growth strategies for developing cortico-cortical and thalamocortical connectivity. On the basis of principles of cortical development, axon outgrowth and guidance strategies will be explored to form cortical connectivity. In particular we want to focus on the implications of competition and selectivity for the emerging connectivity. Axon outgrowth strategies will be implemented as algorithmic procedures into the 3D network generators used in the consortium (NETMORPH and CX3D). The patterns of connectivity arising from these strategies will be investigated as well as the robustness of these results.
Both 3D network generators NETMORPH and CX3D are themselves subject of other workpackages within the SECO project aiming at creating algorithmic models for neuronal morphogenesis in which cells develop through growth cone migration and branching, and formation of synaptic connections in interaction with their environment.
Ideal candidates should combine a strong neurobiological interest and knowledge of cortical development with a solid background in neuro-biophysics and extensive experience in computational modeling and computer programming. A candidate at Postdoc level is preferred (project duration is 2 years, at the latest starting at the 1st of March 2010).
The candidate will contribute significantly to the collaborative effort of the SECO consortium.
For further information about the position, please contact Dr. Arjen van Ooyen, arjen(dot)van(dot)ooyen(at)cncr(dot)vu(dot)nl, or Dr. Jaap van Pelt, jaap(dot)van(dot)pelt(at)cncr(dot)vu(dot)nl. Application letters including a CV, research experience, a short statement of research interests, and contact details of two referees should be sent by email to Dr. Arjen van Ooyen before 17 January 2010.

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