Ph.D. position
GGNB doctoral programs:
Theoretical and Computational Neuroscience (PTCN)
or Physics of Biological and Complex Systems (PBCS)
or Systems Neurosciences (CSN)

PIs/groups: Florentin Wörgötter

Institution: Inst. of Physics 3, Computational Neuroscience, Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience

Topic:
Biophysical models of reinforcement learning in the fruit fly (collaborative, interdisciplinary project bridging experimental neurobiology (optical imaging and behavioral experiments) and theoretical neuroscience (computational modeling), in close interaction Johann-Friedrich-Blumenbach-Institute for Zoology and Anthropology, Department of Molecular Neurobiology of Behavior (Prof. A. Fiala).

Open from: -  9/2010 (negotiable) -

Funding: - dependent on the Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience -

Specific information:
Similar to far more complex organism, the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster is able to perform “learning from rewards or punishments” commonly called reinforcement learning. In this project we investigate the role of modulatory, dopaminergic neurons in such associative learning and memory functions. It involves two parts. On the one hand, behavioral learning experiments and optical imaging experiments in combination with optogenetic manipulation of neuronal function will be performed (Fiala). On the other hand – and this concerns the position offered here – theoretical models of associative learning will be developed and tested based on existing models developed in the group of Wörgötter.

We seek a motivated PhD student who is interested in an interdisciplinary project, performing computational modeling of this system and who is also interested in the behavioral experimental basis of this. Experience with Drosophila neurobiology as well as theoretical neuroscience would be of advantage. Good programming skills are required. We provide a lively, stimulating and well equipped scientific environment.

Contact and further information:
Prof. Dr. Florentin Wörgötter
Georg-August-University Göttingen
Inst. of Physics 3,
Computational Neuroscience,
Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience
Friedrich Hund Platz 1
D-37077 Göttingen
worgott@bccn-goettingen.de
http://www.bccn-goettingen.de/Groups/GroupCN