"PhD position in Neuroscience"

It is widely accepted that synaptic plasticity constitutes the cellular correlate of learning. Yet, synaptic plasticity alone is insufficient to fully account for learning. Other mechanisms, such as intrinsic plasticity of membrane excitability, have been shown to be necessary for memory formation. Still, it remains unclear how intrinsic plasticity contributes to memory encoding and alters cognitive processes. In this project, we will leverage the advanced voltage imaging in larval zebrafish to investigate how intrinsic plasticity reshapes neuronal behavior.

Traditional electrophysiological methods, such as patch clamp, have largely advanced our understanding of neuronal behavior and continue to provide valuable insights. However, these approaches are invasive and lack the spatial resolution for in vivo studies. Leveraging recent advances in microscopy and voltage indicators, we can now observe voltage signaling within different compartments of a single cell in live animals, enabling us to examine hypotheses in a truly physiological context.

In this project, you will contribute to both engineering and neurobiology. First, you will help build a light-sheet microscope optimized for voltage imaging at the single-cell and subcellular level in live larval zebrafish. The development of this system will be supported by Dr. Emmanuel Marquez Legorreta, Dr. Ernest van der Wee, and the Biology Image Center team. Once the microscope is established, you will use it to investigate the electrophysiological properties of cerebellar Purkinje cells with advanced voltage indicators such as Voltron2. The ultimate goal is to uncover how Purkinje cells alter their dendritic signaling and spiking characteristics under different sensory or chemogenetic conditioning paradigms, and to determine how these changes may be mediated through intrinsic plasticity or brain state.

We are excited to welcome a motivated colleague who enjoys working collaboratively, and is enthusiastic about contributing to innovative science as part of our dynamic team. You meet the following criteria:

• You hold, or are about to complete, a Master’s degree in Biology or Engineering. In a programme that requires two internships, students who have completed their first internship are also encouraged to apply.
• You have an interdisciplinary background. Previous microscopy training is a strong asset.
• You demonstrate a strong interest in, or prior experience with, neuroscience.
• You bring enthusiasm for live imaging at the single-cell and subcellular level in larval zebrafish.
• You are proficient in academic English, both spoken and written.

a position for 18 months, with an extension to a total of four years upon successful assessment in the first 18 months; a gross monthly salary between € 3.059 and € 3.881 in the case of full-time employment (salary scale P under the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (CAO NU)); 8% holiday pay and 8.3% year-end bonus; a pension scheme, partially paid parental leave and flexible terms of employment based on the CAO NU.

In addition to the terms of employment laid down in the CAO NU, Utrecht University also offers a range of its own schemes for employees. This includes arrangements for professional development, various types of leave, and options for sports and cultural activities. You can also tailor your employment conditions through our Terms of Employment Options Model. In this way, we encourage you to keep investing in your personal and professional development.