Investigation of the role of olfactory projections involved in odor discrimination

About the lab 

The Haesler lab is a research group at the Neuro-Electronics Flanders (NERF), Belgium. NERF is a research institute empowered by imec, VIB, and KU Leuven. The aim of the lab is to gain a mechanistic understanding of the brain by studying fundamental information processing problems, that are evolutionarily conserved and can be readily studied in mice, the genetically most tractable mammal. Specifically, we are investigating the brain's ability to discriminate novel from familiar olfactory stimuli, aiming to gain a mechanistic understanding of this process. 

The project 

We are seeking a highly motivated candidate with an interest in exploratory behaviors, curiosity, and olfaction. As a master student/intern in our lab, you will have the opportunity to explore fundamental information processing problems using mice as a model organism.  

One question we are particularly excited about is what the role is of several olfactory projections in processes like novel odor detection and odor discrimination. To answer this question, we will make use of our previously designed novelty task, while projections are modulated by DREADDs (Designer Receptors Exclusively Activated by Designer Drugs). DREADDs is a noninvasive technique, that is based on the activation or inhibition of engineered G-coupled receptors. There will be flexibility to customize the project and ample opportunities to collaborate with other team members. 

Type of Project: Combination of internship and thesis; Internship; Thesis 

Master's degree:  Master of Science; Master of Bioengineering; Master of Psychology 

Duration: 5-8 months 

Master program:  Bioscience Engineering; Biomedical engineering; Other 

For more information or application, please contact Robin De Plus (robin.deplus@nerf.be)      

Only for self-supporting students.