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Projects aim to: 1) define specific subtypes of neurons within the cerebellar nuclei by delineating their input and output connectivity and molecular identities, 2) establish the functional connectivity between distinct CN subpopulations and forelimb muscles and examines how cerebellar output pathways influence goal-directed forelimb movements, and 3) explore how the activity of discrete CN output pathways correlates with forelimb online correction and endpoint precision. By defining the organization of distinct cerebellar output pathways and identifying the ways in which they influence dexterous movements, this work will provide insight into how diverse circuits differentially participate in motor control, and clarify how injury and disease of cerebellar circuits can lead to motor impairments in humans.
Principal Responsibilities:
Candidates will utilize molecular-genetic tools and techniques, such as cell-type specific Cre mouse lines, intersectional AAV and rabies transsynaptic viral tracing, and optogenetics, and combine this powerful circuit dissection with high-resolution behavioral assays, multielectrode neural recording, and electromyography (EMG) recording designed to probe the execution of dexterous limb movements. Additionally, candidates will use single nuclei RNA-sequencing approaches to clarify the molecular organization of cerebellar output circuits as distinguished by their distinct projection targets.
Preferred Qualifications: