Post-doctoral position in advanced microscopy to study the onset of mechanosensitivity in developmental neural systems

Subject: Postdoctoral scholar position in the lab of Neurophotonics and Mechanical Systems Biology group led by Dr. Michael Krieg (Professor, ICFO) to study how and when neurons become mechanosensitive using a combination of light-sheet microscopy and mechanical stimulation.

The Krieg lab at ICFO is interested in the mechanical control of physiological processes involving the sensation of mechanical stresses. We primarily work with invertebrate model organisms such as Drosophila and C elegans, but also tissue models and organoids derived from mouse embyonic stem cells. We are a hypothesis-driven lab and guide our experiments with theoretical models and mathematical simulations. To provide insights into the molecular and mechanical processes that determine animal and human physiology, we use advanced imaging methods and biophysical measurements to infer how mechanical properties of molecules, cells and tissues governs neuronal biology.

We are looking for exceptional candidates with a strong self-motivation and the ability to work independently on a research project in collaboration with the Superresolution and Light nanosscopy lab at ICFO. In particular we are looking for an candidate with prior experience in advanced optical microscopy and, preferrably, neuroscience to study the role of mechanical force in neuronal systems development. The candidate will use and improve an existing open top light sheet microscope for fast volumetric and high resolution imaging of neuronal activity in developing C elegans embryos in conjunction with a force metrology to apply minute forces to the animals. The goal is to define a developmental mechanism of the onset of mechanosensitivity and establish a functional map of the force-sensitive connectome throughout the first stages of development. The candidate is expected to aply to third-pary funding such as HFSP or EMBO long term fellowshoip or Beatriu de Pinos postdoc award. Importantly, this project has prior received funding through the BdP and the Marie Curie actions.
The successful candidate will have access to a fully equipped cleanroom, microscopy facility and optical tweezer setup in addition to a stimulating research environment at ICFO.

Eligibility and Conditions

Candidates must hold an internationally-recognized Ph.D.-equivalent degree (or evidence of its completion in the nearest future) preferably in (bio)-engineering, optical engineering and microscopy or neuroscience. The successful candidate should be equipped with a strong personal motivation for basic science. Prior work with genetic model organism C. elegans and/or mammalian tissue culture is considered an asset. Proof of ambition, productivity, and creativity is a must, and a track record of conference presentations and first author peer-reviewed publications will be expected. We are looking for a desire to engage in discussions, collaborate with team members and enjoy thinking deeply while developing ideas independently. The candidate will work independently on the project and consult with the PI and collaborators on a weekly basis. The PI will provide ample learning and career development opportunities such as outreach, teaching, conference and provide his network to advance the individual’s scientific career.

For more information, contact the PI.