MODELLING THE EFFECT OF SYNAPTIC INPUT ON A
DUAL-FUNCTION NEURAL NETWORK
This EU funded project linking laboratories in Cambridge, Edinburgh,
Montpellier and Rome will involve the construction of mathematical models
of oxytocin neurones, assessing model properties by computer simulation and
analytical techniques where possible, and participation in the planning and
execution of experimental tests of the models, in conjunction with
neurobiologists (at Montpellier and Edinburgh), e.g. by devising critical
experiments to discriminate between hypotheses.
Random synaptic input is an important element of the environment of
oxytocin neurones, which have two modes of activity corresponding to
different physiological functions: firing in synchronised, high frequency
bursts during lactation and parturition; and in a continuous firing
pattern, responding to the imposed osmotic stress by a graded increase in
mean activity. Models will probably be required at various levels of
complexity, spanning the range from leaky integrator models to biophysical
models with dendritic and somatic compartments. The postdoctoral research
worker appointed will work closely with Jianfeng Feng and David Brown in
the Lab. of Computational Neuroscience at Babraham, and in collaboration
with mathematicians in the Physics Department, Rome 'La Sapienza'
University (whose main focus will be assembling the single neurone models
developed at Cambridge into networks) and neuroendocrinologists in
Montpellier and Edinburgh.
This is an exciting and novel project. The network's capacity for two
distinct modes of action, both physiologically important, in response to
different inputs will require the development of new models. Because of
the low-dimensionality of system outputs (either tonic or pulsatile hormone
release), sufficient good experimental data (e.g. simultaneous
electrophysiological recordings, hormone release etc) can be collected
within the project for thorough experimental calibration and testing of
models. The biologists involved have between them an unrivalled experience
and knowledge of the oxytocin system, and are pioneering cutting-edge
experimental techniques for its study.
The person appointed should have a PhD or equivalent research experience
in biological, preferably neuronal or physiological modelling, with
knowledge of analytical and simulation based techniques for assessing the
behaviour of neuronal models, and relating the models to experimental data.
A good first degree in a mathematically based subject and experience of
biological computing will probably be required. The project will involve
some travel between the four sites, so as to facilitate regular contact
with the mathematicians and biologists involved. Salary in approx. range
£16,000-£26,000 per annum depending on qualifications and experience. The
project will start in mid-1998, and continue in the first instance for 2
years.
Further information from David Brown (+44 (0)1223 832312, Fax +44 (0)1223
837912, email db10@cus.cam.ac.uk). Applications in the form of a CV and
names and addresses of three referees to David Brown, Laboratory of
Computational Neuroscience, Babraham Institute, Cambridge CB2 4AT as soon
as possible and at the latest by 30th April 1998.
David Brown
Laboratory of Computational Neuroscience
The Babraham Institute
Cambridge
CB2 4AT UK
Tel +44 1223 832312 ext 224
Fax +44 1223 837912
Email db10@cus.cam.ac.uk