Fachbereich Biologie, Chemie, Pharmazie - Institut für Biologie NeurophysiologiePhD Position (m/f/d) (subject to approval of funds) with 50%part-time job limited to 3 years Entgeltgruppe 13 TV-L FU Reference code: USV-3R Bewerbungsende: 14.02.2022

The research group “Neurophysiology” (Prof. Koch) investigates the neuronal basis of processing acoustic stimuli and vocal communication in various mouse models. During social interactions, mice emit vocalizations in the ultrasonic range thereby producing acoustic information. The research aim is to understand their role in conspecific interaction in different behavioral scenarios. The applied methods and techniques encompass behavioral assays and the analysis of mouse vocalizations using deep learning approaches.

Job description:
Within the scope of this collaboration between the AG Neurophysiology and the Institute of Animal Welfare, Animal Behavior and Laboratory Animal Science at the Freie Universität Berlin, the aim is to investigate whether ultrasonic vocalizations can be used as a positive welfare indicator in laboratory mice.
The successful candidate will investigate mouse vocalizations in different behavioral scenarios (i.a. through application of convolutional neural networks and cluster analysis) with regard to the impact of different handling methods.
The successful candidate is expected to pursue a PhD degree.

Requirements:
Candidates are expected to have or expect a master’s degree in neuroscience, biology or a related field.

Desirable:
• experience with animal behavior (ethology) and a strong interest in neuroscience related questions
• experience with laboratory animal handling and/or successfully obtained certificate in Laboratory Animal Science (FELASA B or equivalent)
• experience with quantitative data analysis methods (statistical and/or programming)
• Interest in acoustics
• Willing to work individually and in a small team
• Motivation and good self-organization
• Good English proficiency
• Basic German proficiency

Applications should be sent by e-mail, together with significant documents, indicating the reference code, in PDF format (preferably as one document) to Mr. Dr. Thorsten Becker: [email protected] .

On the given occasion and for the duration of the essential on-site operations by Freie Universität Berlin, we kindly ask you to apply electronically by e-mail. The processing of a postal application cannot be guaranteed.

Freie Universität Berlin

Fachbereich Biologie, Chemie, Pharmazie

Institut für Biologie

Neurophysiologie

Mr. Dr. Thorsten Becker

Takustr. 6

14195 Berlin (Dahlem)

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