Plasticity of inhibitory circuits
Circuit dysfunction in neurological disorders
Functional organization of olfactory cortex
How does the interaction and plasticity of excitatory and inhibitory neurons give rise to perception, learning and memory?
We strive to answer this question by understanding how neural circuits are organized and represent information during sensory processing and learning in the mammalian cortex, with a focus on inhibitory circuits. We integrate in vivo and in vitro analysis of specific neural circuits by using a combination of electrophysiology, 2-photon uncaging and imaging, opto-, chemo- & mouse genetics, confocal microscopy, sensory activity manipulation and disease models. Understanding the principles of how specific circuits are connected will lead way to development of therapeutics for various neuropsychiatric disorders like epilepsy, depression, Alzheimer's Disease, and schizophrenia.
olfactory bulb
We're recruiting!
For potential Postdoctoral Fellows, a PhD degree in engineering/neuroscience/biology is required.
For prospective PhD students, 3 PhD tracks are available: (1) Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme, (2) Department of Neuroscience PhD programme or (3) the Interdisciplinary PhD Programme in Veterinary Sciences, a programme offered by the CityU in collaboration with Cornell University. More info about pursuing a PhD degree can be found at the CityU School of Graduate Studies website. Students with outstanding GPA, globally ranked universities, publications and minority groups are particularly encouraged to apply.
Qualities required: interest in neuroscience; Strong command of written and spoken English; strong organizational and interpersonal skills; self motivation and strong work ethics.
Qualities highly desirable: command of MATLAB, brain electrophysiology (in vivo or in vitro), optogenetics, stereotaxic surgery and injection in mice.
Please send your CV and research summary directly to Dr. Geoffrey Lau (geoff.lau@cityu.edu.hk).
