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Enquires and applications to Dr. Martine Migaud (Martine.Migaud@inra.fr)

Job title:

Multi-modal MRI analysis of a large mammalian brain model 

Structure:

A 2-year postdoctoral position is available in the group of Dr. Martine Migaud, at the laboratory of Reproductive and Behavioral Physiology (https://www6.val-de-loire.inra.fr/physiologie_reproduction_comportements), which brings together over 50 researchers from INRA, CNRS, the University of Tours and the French horse and riding institute (IFCE).

Context and mission:

The Project is part of a recently awarded grant from the French National Agency for Research and involves magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) analysis in a large animal model (sheep). This project aims to explore through MRI approaches, the mechanisms of brain plasticity in the hypothalamus, a structure involved in the control of reproduction. In this project, we aim to develop MR acquisition and post-processing methods to monitor brain changes and to obtain imaging biomarkers, based on the use of multi-modal neuro-imaging tools to investigate anatomical, connectivity and hypothalamic microstructure variations in function of the environment. Our lab makes use of sheep as an in vivo model system and for in vitro immunohistochemical and molecular approaches.

The recruited post-doc will have access to the CIRE platform within the laboratory, dedicated to applied surgery and imaging of large animal models. The platform is equipped with state of the art imaging facilities including a clinical MRI scanner (3T Verio, Siemens) and a CT-Scanner (https://www6.val-de-loire.inra.fr/cire/Imagerie). He/she will also benefit from a strong collaborative local environment formed by the members of the CIRE platform and other scientists from our unit. In addition, the project is carried out in collaboration with the Team Development & Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, INSERM U1172, directed by Dr. V. Prévot. The position is available for two years and would ideally start in October 2018.

Place:

The laboratory is located in Nouzilly, in close proximity to Tours, in the heart of the Loire Valley, France. Tours is a pleasant city from which one can also reach Paris or Bordeaux very easily within 1h00 and 2h00 respectively by high-speed train.

Candidate profile:

The successful candidate will have a PhD in neuroscience, Electrical or Biomedical Engineering, or related fields with strong experience in MRI neuroimaging and in statistical analysis. Knowledge and previous experience in computer programming and analysis software (eg. Python, Matlab, C++, FSL, Freesurfer, Linux, Perl…) is mandatory. We are looking for a highly enthusiastic and autonomous candidate who can develop his/her line of research with an interest in interdisciplinary research and excellent interaction and communication skills in the context of a collaborative teamwork.

To apply, please send by e-mail, your C.V., a motivation letter and the names and contact information of two referees to Dr. Martine Migaud (Martine.Migaud@inra.fr). We will consider applications until October 31, 2018.