Post-doctoral position (M/F) in Neurosciences – Olfaction & fMRI

Description

Missions
This position is proposed within the framework of the BIODOR-IN project funded by the ANR. The aim of this project is to better understand the function of odors in social communication in humans, in the context of mate choice. The preference for biological odors produced by the body is modulated by factors related to reproductive status, genetics or health. However, human chemical communication remains understudied and its mechanisms are still poorly understood. This project started in 2021 with a large-scale study to investigate the attractiveness of body odors with behavioral/verbal and analytical chemistry approaches coupled with genetic and hormonal measurements. Another part of the project aims to better understand the neurophysiological responses to human body odors. In this framework, an MRI study is planned to better understand the neural basis of human olfactory attractiveness: this is the object of this postdoc.

Activities
The post-doctoral fellow will be in charge of conducting MRI experiments combined with behavioral approaches in human volunteers. This type of experiment has already been in place in the team for several years and will not require any particular development. Data collection will start very rapidly since the participants have already been recruited (they already took part in a first experiment during which we collected their physiological responses), and the protocol has been discussed and presented to the imaging platform where the experiment will take place. An important part of the work will consist in the analysis of functional imaging data, requiring prior experience on these techniques. The candidate is expected to be autonomous in the analysis of data and will have the opportunity to develop the necessary tools from those already existing in the team. The candidate is also expected to present his/her data to the team and at international conferences, and to valorize his/her work in the form of scientific publication(s).

Work context
The candidate will work in the Neuropop team of the Lyon Neuroscience Research Center CRNL (at the Vinatier in Bron, Neurocampus building). The CRNL is a research unit of the University Claude Bernard Lyon 1 – CNRS – INSERM. It is one of the largest research centers in Neuroscience in France with more than 400 members. The Neuropop team is composed of 7 permanent researchers as well as engineers and technicians, and several post-doc, PhD students and master students. The research themes of the team, on human and animal models, focus on the plasticity of olfaction. The team’s offices are located in a recent building (2019), with a human experimentation area where several rooms are dedicated to olfaction and very well equipped. Some experiments will also take place on the CERMEP imaging platform located at about 10 minutes’ walk from the laboratory.

Constraints and risks
Constraints and risks related to the magnetic field of the MRI apparatus.

Additional information
The application must include the following documents: a letter of motivation indicating in particular the research interests and the long-term objectives of the candidate; a curriculum vitae mentioning briefly the main results obtained so far (published or not); and the contact details of a person with whom the candidate has worked and who could write a letter of recommendation if necessary.

To apply : https://emploi.cnrs.fr/Offres/CDD/UMR5292-CAMFER-005/Default.aspx

Training required

A PhD in neuroscience or cognitive science is required

Desired profile

A doctor in neuroscience or cognitive science, who has experience with fMRI and who is directly operational to conduct fMRI experiments.

Skills sought

The skills needed for this position are to:
- master the conduct of MRI experiments in humans
- master MRI data analysis techniques
- know how to use a programming language (Python, Matlab, R...)
- master statistical analysis tools (R in particular)
- have good writing skills
- have a good level of English
- have a good ability to work in a team
Experience in research projects in olfaction or social cognition would be highly appreciated.
Training in good clinical practices and first aid would be a plus.