Positions

We are seeking postdoctoral fellows, graduate students or research technicians. Our lab focuses on understanding basic principles of neural circuit plasticity in brain slices and behaving animals. We have considerable expertise in the study of cellular mechanisms governing neural circuit development in which we mainly use electrophysiology and laser-based cutting-edge techniques such as two-photon imaging and photolysis of caged neurotransmitters (Kwon and Sabatini, Nature (2011); Kwon et al, Nature Neuroscience (2012); Oh et al, Science (2016)). In addition, our lab recently developed new optogenetic approaches to label and control behaviorally-relevant neuronal circuits in behaving animals (iTango2 and Cal-Light) (Lee et al, Nature Methods (2017); Lee et al, Nature Biotechnology (2017)). These tools allow understanding of neural circuit function at the single cell and synapse levels and control of them.

Several ongoing projects monitors neuronal activities in behaving animals by two-photon imaging, in vivo miniscope, electrophysiology, and fiber photometry. Together with all these cutting-edge imaging techniques, we are routinely dissect neuronal circuitry by viral tracing, optogenetic and chemogenetic manipulations, two-photon uncaging, and single cell/synapse resolution imaging with newly developed technology from our lab. In addition, several novel techniques that are useful for circuit dissections are currently under development.

Successful candidates will use and combine all the tools that are listed above. Especially, a person who is interested in studying circuits underlying cognitive level of learning such as reversal learning, cognitive map, numerical cognition are encouraged to apply. A strong background in electrophysiology and/or optogenetics with related mouse genetics and viruses are preferred but not required. A candidate who has a specialty in computer programming or engineering is also highly encouraged to apply.

Please send the CV to Dr. Hyungbae Kwon at hkwon29@jhmi.edu.