Postdoctoral Researcher in Human Basal Ganglia and Cerebellar Physiology and Deep Brain Stimulation

Location: 
513 Parnassus Avenue
San Francisco, CA 94143
United States
Job Posted Date: 
May 20, 2024
Opportunities: 
Postdoc Positions at UCSF
Population: 
Medicine

PIs: Dr. Marta San Luciano, Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) and Dr. Philip Starr, Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF)

The UCSF Starr & San Luciano Labs are seeking a talented postdoctoral scholar to explore the human neurophysiology of basal ganglia and cerebellum. This research will focus on the neural signatures of motor symptoms in acquired dystonia secondary to cerebral palsy and the effects of cerebellar deep brain stimulation (DBS) in children and young adults. Additionally, the postdoctoral scholar will have the opportunity to pursue a concurrent project in the Starr Lab, related to mechanisms of DBS, neural correlates of motor dysfunction, or adaptive DBS.

Why Join Us?

  • exciting opportunity to work with next-generation technology that can record and stream intracranial neurophysiology.
  • Access state-of-the-art facilities and unique, pioneering datasets.
  • Contribute to impactful neuroscience and new treatment options for dystonia, cerebral palsy and other movement disorders.
  • Engage with world-leading experts in a collaborative, dynamic research environment.

Overview:

This role involves analyzing intracranial neural recordings using cutting-edge computational approaches. The candidate will work with children and young adults receiving DBS electrodes in the cerebellum as part of an experimental treatment. We will record cerebellar local field potentials and perform electromyography to associate neural signal changes with the effects of DBS on both subjective and objective assessments of motor and non-motor symptoms.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Collect and analyze time series data from the cerebellum using MATLAB or Python.
  • Recording techniques will include sensing-enabled DBS devices.
  • Associate neural activity with clinical outcomes in DBS treatments.
  • Responsibilities for intracranial neural recordings, data analyses, computational modeling, write-up, and presentation.
Job Requirements: 
  • PhD in Neuroscience, Neuro-engineering, Computer Science, Bioengineering, or related disciplines is preferred.
  • Advanced analytical and critical thinking skills.
  • Ability to independently run experiments, analyze data, and plan forward strategy combined with excellent team and collaborative working skills.
  • Highly self-motivated, inquisitive scientist with a record of publication in peer-reviewed journals.
  • Experience in neurophysiological analysis and strong analysis and coding skills (Matlab/Python).
  • Experience working with electrophysiology data (LFPs, EEG, ECOG, MEG) is advantageous.
How to Apply: 

Please submit your CV, a brief cover letter outlining your research interests and experiences and contact details for three references to Dr. Marta San Luciano: [email protected].

Candidates from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. UCSF actively seeks candidates whose experience, teaching, research, or community service has prepared them to contribute to our commitment to diversity and excellence.

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status.

Location: 
San Francisco
Greater Bay Area
Peninsula
California