Project
The project focuses on understanding the cellular, synaptic and network properties and mechanisms of plasticity in human cortical organoids.
Most that is known about the cellular mechanisms of synaptic and network plasticity is from rodent model systems. While human neurons are known to be more complex than rodent’s very little is known about human synaptic mechanisms and network activity. The project will address this by growing cortical organoids and interrogate their neuronal networks using high resolution CMOS multielectrode array electrophysiological recordings, fluorescence calcium imaging and optogenetic stimulation. The researchers will interact closely with statistical physicists and modellers to gain a wider and deeper understanding of the emerging structures and dynamical processes of human plasticity that will inform the development of novel neuromorphic computing approaches.
Person Specification
The successful applicant should have been awarded, or expect to achieve, a Masters degree in a relevant subject with a 60% or higher weighted average, and/or a First or Upper Second Class Honours degree (or an equivalent qualification from an overseas institution) in neuroscience, stem cell biology, or a related biological science.