(Note: This center uses non-human primate models to study Parkinson's disease and deep brain stimulation therapies. In turn, they're looking for researchers with extensive NHP expertise.)
We seek outstanding scientists interested in working in an NIH funded research program studying motor systems neurophysiology, the pathophysiology of Parkinson’s disease (PD), mechanisms of deep brain stimulation (DBS) in preclinical animal models of PD, and new DBS approaches. These postdoc positions offer opportunities for multidisciplinary research, training in neuroengineering and neurophysiology, and career development. The projects associated with the available positions are described below.
Basal Ganglia Cortical Coupling and Connectivity Changes in Parkinson’s Disease and Deep Brain Stimulation
This position is focused on the analysis of large-scale neuronal populations, characterization of circuit connectivity in Parkinson’s disease, optimization of directional DBS, and development of closed-loop deep brain stimulation (DBS) approaches for treatment of PD.
Pathophysiological mechanisms underlying parkinsonian motor and non-motor (sleep) symptoms
This study aims to provide a better understanding of the brain circuitry involved in disordered sleep-wake behavior in parkinsonism and inform the development of targeted therapeutic interventions to treat motor and non-motor symptoms of PD.
Optimizing coordinated reset deep brain stimulation for Parkinson’s disease
Coordinated reset deep brain stimulation (CR DBS) is a novel DBS approach that has the potential to treat parkinsonian motor symptoms with significantly less stimulation compared to traditional DBS. This project is to optimize critical CR parameters, compare CR DBS in different targets, and understand the mechanism underlying its therapeutic effects.
The qualifications required for these positions are:
PhD in biomedical engineering, neuroscience or related engineering/science field
Experience conducting neurophysiology experiments in the human and/or animal models
Signal processing and data analysis
Programming in MATLAB
Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively with others
Strong record of presenting research results through publications and conference abstracts
For more information please email Wyatt Doepke (doep0013@umn.edu) with your CV.
See also: https://nmrc.umn.edu/opportunities