12 Apr 2024
Job Information
- Organisation/Company
University of Poitiers- Department
Fundamental and Applied Sciences- Research Field
Neurosciences » Neuropsychology- Researcher Profile
First Stage Researcher (R1)- Country
France- Application Deadline
17 May 2024 - 14:00 (Europe/Paris)- Type of Contract
Temporary- Job Status
Full-time- Offer Starting Date
1 Sep 2024- Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme?
Not funded by an EU programme- Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure?
No
Offer Description
Title of the subject: Mechanisms involved in compulsive behaviors related to drug addiction
Keywords: Drug addiction, behavior, punishment, motivation, neurobiology, endogenous cannabinoid system, brain circuitry
Abstract:
Drug addiction is characterized by excessive substance use despite negative health consequences. This project focuses on the underlying mechanisms of compulsive behaviors related to addiction, using a newly developed punishment procedure in rats (Desmercieres et al., 2022). The objectives are to adapt this procedure to cocaine self-administration, to study the relationship between punishment resistance for food and cocaine, and to analyze the brain mechanisms involved in this resistance. The project combines behavioral and molecular approaches to study the underlying neurobiological mechanisms.
Context and problem statement:
Research on addiction has long focused on motivational and reward processes. However, understanding the behavioral and biological mechanisms that maintain drug use despite negative consequences is crucial. This project aims to examine these mechanisms using a punishment procedure to study compulsive drug-related behaviors.
Subject description:
We hypothesize that punishment resistance will remain stable for food but will progressively increase for cocaine. This increase in loss of control will be observed in a minority of vulnerable individuals. Furthermore, we propose that punishment resistance is associated with changes in gene expression of the endocannabinoid system (ECS), particularly in the striatum and insular cortex. This knowledge is crucial for developing more effective therapies against addiction.
Methodology and implementation:
The project combines behavioral techniques with molecular approaches to study the neurobiological mechanisms of punishment resistance. We will use drug self-administration techniques adapted to the new punishment procedure. Molecular biology methods such as RT-PCR and pyrosequencing will be used to study changes in gene expression associated with compulsive behaviors. Viral approaches could be used to manipulate gene expression and test their causal involvement in addiction.
Requirements
- Research Field
- Neurosciences » Neurobiology
- Education Level
- Master Degree or equivalent
Skills/Qualifications
The ideal candidate will have a strong background in neuroscience and experience with animal models of addiction. Skills in animal behavior (rodents) and operant testing are necessary, as well as an understanding of the neurobiological mechanisms of addiction. Proficiency in written scientific English is required. French-speaking or English-speaking candidates are welcome. Master's degree or equivalent required.
- Languages
- ENGLISH
- Level
- Excellent
- Languages
- FRENCH
- Level
- Excellent
Additional Information
Work Location(s)
- Number of offers available
- 1
- Company/Institute
- University of Poitiers/INSERM 1084
- Country
- France
- City
- Poitiers
- Postal Code
- 86000
- Geofield
Where to apply
[email protected]
Contact
- City
Poitiers- Website
https://lnec.labo.univ-poitiers.fr/- Street
Bâtiment B36, 1 rue Georges Bonnet, BP 633- Postal Code
86073
STATUS: EXPIRED