Postdoctoral Fellow

Postdoctoral Fellow

This is a full-time, fixed term (4 years) position on Crick terms and conditions of employment.

The research group

The Schmack lab studies the biological mechanisms underlying psychosis. Our goal is to develop new biological treatments for psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia, and to generate fundamental insights into how the brain generates perceptions and thoughts. We are working on the interface of psychiatry, neuroscience and immunology. We study human patients and mice using a range of methods including psychometric experiments, computational modelling, targeted neural circuit manipulations, and immunological techniques.

Project summary

We are seeking a postdoctoral scientist who will study the biological mechanisms underpinning psychosis-like experiences to find new treatment targets for psychosis. Suitable candidates should have a strong background in systems neuroscience or related areas, as well as a strong interest in immunology and psychiatry.

Psychotic disorders are characterized by altered perception and thought. Progress in treatment has been limited due to a stagnating understanding of the underlying biological mechanisms. Previously, we showed that psychotic symptoms are related to alterations in ‘hard-wired’ perceptual behaviours. We developed an approach that combines computational models and behavioural observations to measure psychosis-like perceptions in mice and humans. Using this cross-species approach, we have characterized the function of dopamine-dependent striatal circuits in psychosis-like perception.

This project will examine the interplay between neuronal dynamics and immune processes in a psychosis mouse model. The project will employ techniques from computational psychiatry, systems neuroscience, and immunology.

This is an excellent opportunity for a neuroscientist to contribute to a basic science research program relevant to psychiatry. The Schmack lab strives to provide a nurturing environment for all lab members with an emphasis on professional growth and career development. Postdoctoral Scientists are expected to lead their own projects and to contribute to other projects collaboratively. They are expected to develop their mentoring and people management skills and to guide PhD and other students in their research.

Key experience and competencies

The post holder should embody and demonstrate our core Crick values: bold, imaginative, open, dynamic and collegial, in addition to the following:

Essential:

• PhD in systems neuroscience or a related field
• Strong interest in psychiatry and immunology
• Advanced programming and data analysis skills, evidenced by previous projects
• Proven track record of writing scientific papers, as demonstrated by published or submitted manuscripts
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a highly multidisciplinary team
• Dedication to supervision and mentorship of other lab members
• Commitment to actively contributing to a productive and positive lab atmosphere

Desirable:

• Experience in neurophysiological research in mice or other animals
• Experience running advanced behavioral experiments in mice or other animals
• Familiarity with open science and software tools

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion:

We welcome applications from all backgrounds and are committed to providing equal employment opportunities. Diversity is essential to excellence in scientific endeavour.