Postdoctoral Researcher/Research Scientist Opportunity: Join the Yatang Li Lab at CIBR!

About the Lab

The Vision Laboratory studies how vision works -- from the perspective of information processing. We aim to answer what and how visual information is processed, and why in such ways.

We have four research directions: 1) neural coding and circuits for the representation of visual features, 2) neural mechanisms underlying visual attention, 3) neural circuits for visually evoked decision-making behavior, 4) biologically inspired computer vision.

To achieve our aims, we use an integrative approach, including in vivo electrophysiological recording with whole-cell patch-clamp technique, in vivo optical recording with two-photon and widefield calcium imaging, functional perturbation with optogenetics or chemogeneitcs, quantitative analysis of behavior, and computational modeling.

We seek students and postdocs who are interested in understanding visual processing and behavior. We value independence, creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration. Mentoring and training young neuroscientists is the top priority in the lab.

About the PI

Dr. Yatang Li joined the Chinese Institute for Brain Research (CIBR) as a principal investigator in 2021. Dr. Li earned his Ph.D. in Physiology and Biophysics at the University of Southern California and completed postdoctoral training at California Institute of Technology. Before that, Dr. Li holds a B.S. in Biophysics and an M.S. in Computational Neuroscience from Nankai University. Dr. Li’s research focus has been on the neural mechanisms underlying visual processing. During his graduate years working with Dr. Li Zhang and Dr. Huizhong Whit Tao, Dr. Li dissected the functional synaptic circuits underlying visual functions in the mouse primary visual cortex. During his postdoctoral training with Dr. Markus Meister, Dr. Li revealed the population coding in the superior colliculus of awake mice. Dr. Li is a recipient of the Helen Hay Whitney Postdoctoral Fellowship and the NIH Pathway to Independence Award (K99/R00). His work has been published in top journals, including Nature Neuroscience, Neuron, Current Biology, The Journal of Neuroscience, and Cerebral Cortex.

Position: Postdoctoral Researcher/Research Scientist

Job Description

Conduct independent scientific research under the guidance of the PI. Candidates with experience in calcium imaging, electrophysiological recordings, optogenetics, and computational neuroscience are preferred.

Responsibilities

1. Carry out independent research projects;

2. Assist in mentoring students and technical staff;

3. Contribute to grant applications and manuscript preparation.

Qualifications

1. A Ph.D. degree in Science or Medicine is required (or expected to be obtained shortly);

2. The candidate’s research background should be in neuroscience, with solid expertise and extensive experience in systems neuroscience experiments;

3. Must have published (or submitted/accepted) at least one first-author or corresponding-author paper in a peer-reviewed SCI journal;

4. Demonstrated ability to independently conduct scientific research, proactively acquire new knowledge and skills, and effectively solve problems encountered during research;

5. Possess a conscientious, responsible, and rigorous work ethic, along with excellent hands-on skills and a pragmatic, efficient approach to work;

6. Show strong curiosity and passion for relevant research areas, coupled with outstanding logical thinking, oral and written communication skills, and a collaborative team spirit;

7. Fluent in English reading and writing, capable of independently or collaboratively drafting scientific manuscripts in English.

Benefits

We offer an internationally competitive package, including but not limited to salary, health insurance, and housing. We fully support the application of fellowships and grants.

Contact (Email)

Please send an email to yatangli@cibr.ac.cn, with a cover letter describing your past research, career goals, and what you hope to accomplish in the Lab. Please enclose your CV and the contact information of three references.