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Missions

Drosophila melanogaster can socially learn sexual preferences from the observation of copulating conspecifics, a social observational learning called mate-copying. We found recently that that species has all the cognitive abilities to transmit mating preferences culturally across generations (Danchin et al., Science, 2018). We are now using the existing neurogenetic tools to manipulate the molecular expression in specific cells and manipulate activity of specific brain neurons and circuits in Drosophila in order to reveal the neurobiology of social learning and memory in Drosophila. This research is part of a larger ambition project including evolutionary aspect of mate-copying.

Activities

The recruited post-doctoral fellow will use a combination of fly genetics and genetically encoded tools, and will perform intensive fly behaviour experiments to analyse this social learning and publish results. He/she will integrate his discoveries into both the neurobiological and evolutionary questions that he/she will develop. More, he/she will be in charge of the daily supervision of PhD and/or MSc students participating to the project.

Competence

Applicants should be highly motivated, have a Ph.D. in Neuroscience (or in any domain of functional biology) in Drosophila with a track record of publications in leading journals. High experimental skills are crucial. An experience in student supervision and coordination will be welcome. Preference will be given to applicants possessing solid experience of behaviour and genetic tools in drosophila. Knowledge of basic molecular biology techniques is also desired, but not mandatory.

Further information

The successful candidate must be identified by July 2019, with a start date no later than end of 2019, upon agreement. The successful candidate will be hired for a period of 24 months with a salary corresponding to the level of research scientist according to the standards of the National Center of Scientific Research (CNRS). Salary will include social security, health and retirement benefits.
Applications should be received before June 15, 2019 and should include 1) a cover letter briefly describing experience, motivation and skills adapted for the position, as well as research interests; 2) complete CV and publication list; and separately, 3) two letters from professional references, providing their recommendation (these letters should not be included into the application and should be sent to us separately).
Applications should be sent to both Dr. Guillaume Isabel (guillaume.isabel@univ-tlse3.fr) and to Dr. Etienne Danchin (etienne.danchin@univ-tlse3.fr ).