Applications are invited for a 3-year PhD-research fellowship as PhD candidate in neuroscience in the project “Targeting vasomotion to improve brain waste clearance in sleep”. The aim of the project is to elucidate how vascular dynamics in sleep contributes to brain waste clearance in sleep through the so-called glymphatic system of the brain. This system represents a basic physiological function of sleep that we may be important for the prevention of neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease.

The applicant will work in a multidisciplinary team, and the main work responsibilities will be to perform in vivo two-photon microscopy experiments of sleeping mice and/or performing data analyses of data generated in such experiments. Experimental work as part of the project will take place in GliaLab (https://glialab.no) at the Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo.

Representative articles illustrating the type of experimental work and analyses we perform can be found in some of our recent papers:
Bojarskaite et al 2023, Nature Communications: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-023-36643-5 
Åbjørsbråten et al, 2022, eLife: https://elifesciences.org/articles/75055 
Bojarskaite et al, 2020, Nature Communications: 
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-020-17062-2
Bjørnstad et al, 2021, Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience: 
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fncel.2021.681066/full

The application must contain:

• Cover letter statement of motivation and research interests
• CV (summarizing education, positions and academic work)
• Copies of educational certificates (academic transcripts only)
• Complete list of publications and academic works
• List of reference persons: 2–3 references (name, relation to candidate, e-mail and phone number)
  
• Deadline for application: April 15th, 2024
• Start: Earliest start date May 1st, later start can be possible dependes on circumstances
• Contact: Associate Professor Rune Enger, Department of neurosurgery, Oslo University Hospital, HF, rune.enger@medisin.uio.no or +4790534262
   

Oslo University Hospital is a workplace with great diversity. We belive this is essential to perform the tasks required of us. Therefore, we pursue diversity among our job applicants and encourage everyone to apply regardless of who you are and what background you have.  

Kvalifikasjoner:

• A medical degree or master’s degree (120 ECTS) or an equivalent qualification in neuroscience, physics, mathematics or similar, minimum grade B (ECTS grading scale) or equivalent. The Master’s degree must include a thesis of at least 30 ECTS.
• Documented experience with advanced data analysis and/or first-hand experience with in vivo two-photon microscopy experiments and electrophysiology of rodents.
• For a candidate with only data analysis experience, advanced programming skills in MATLAB, or experience with a similar programming language with the ability to start using MATLAB with little transition, is required.
• For a candidate with experience in vivo two-photon microscopy, documentation of formal training and certification for working with live animals must be provided.
• Basic understanding of neuroscience.
• Fluent oral and written communication skills in English.

The following skills will be considered beneficial during evaluation of applications:

• Deep knowledge of neuroscience.
  
• Experience with image analyses and electrophysiology data analyses.
• Knowledge on advanced statistical methods, including regression models or machine learning.

Personlige egenskaper:

The following personal skills will be considered beneficial during evaluation of applications:

• Highly motivated and accurate candidate.
• Good problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work both independently and as integrated member of a multidisciplinary team.
• Good communication skills and teaching abilities.

Vi tilbyr:

• Salary following PhD candidate placement in the public service.
• Attractive welfare benefits and a good pension agreement
• In addition does Oslo have a family-friendly environment with rich opportunities for culture and outdoor activities.