Recent studies, including those from the Kaczmarek laboratory, have shown pivotal role of MMP-9, extrasynaptically released protease acting on local extracellular matrix, in neuronal plasticity underlying physiological and pathological information processing and storage by the brain (see: Nagy et al., J. Neurosci., 2006; Okulski et al., Biol. Psych., 2007; Wilczynski et al., J. Cell Biol., 2008; Michaluk et al., J. Neurosci., 2009; J. Cell Sci., 2011; Konopka et al., J. Neurosci., 2010; Dziembowska et al., J. Neurosci., 2012; for review: Rivera et al., J. Neurosci., 2010). The present project aims at explanation of the role of MMP-9 in emotional learning, alcohol addiction and schizophrenia. The rodent amygdala is the major brain structure the studies will focus on (Knapska et al., PNAS, 2006; 2012; Physiol. Rev., 2007).

Requirements for postdoctoral candidates are:

• Strong interest in brain research, especially in understanding the brain-mind connection
• PhD degree (or equivalent) in molecular biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, physics/biophysics, chemistry, biology, psychology, medical or veterinary sciences, and no more than four years of post-doctoral training (candidates defending their Ph.D. thesis shortly after the application deadline, and before the start date of the employment contract, are eligible to apply)
• Research experience with either electrophysiology or optogenetics (preferably in vivo) or rodent behavior (preferably oriented toward neuropsychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia) or neuroanatomy (preferably amygdala)
• Very good publication record
• Exceptional motivation for scientific research
• Proficiency in English

Admission

The application should contain the following documents/information:

• CV
• Short description of the motivation to apply for this position
• Two names of senior researchers that may provide reference letters
• Copy of PhD diploma (or equivalent)
• Contact information, including e-mail address and phone number
• The candidates may include additional information or copies of documents/certificates in support of the application.

Applications in English (pdf format) may be uploaded on-line: https://recruitment.nencki.gov.pl/register.php?call=team201201
Application deadline: March 10, 2013
Short-listed candidates will be selected for personal interviews.
Positions are intended for two years initially, with a start date: June 2013
Stipend amount: 6 000 PLN/month

Further information available at: http://neurogene.nencki.gov.pl/ and team@nencki.gov.pl