Objective
The neuronal circuits that underlie higher brain function are created and refined early in life. Since early life experiences strongly influence the circuit maturation process, every single person is subject to the lifelong impact of their neonatal sensory environment. My research investigates when and how specific neuronal circuits form and the impact of sensory experience on circuit maturation. Ultimately, understanding these developmental processes will lead to optimal design of neonatal care and targeted intervention in neuro-developmental diseases, such as autism.
My research brings together fine-scale analysis of synapses and broad-scale understanding of the neuronal networks that they form. This approach allows direct and detailed measurement of the role of synaptic plasticity in driving circuit maturation. I use high resolution optical (2-photon) stimulation and recording combined with molecular, genetic and electrophysiological methods to analyse rapid, developmental changes in defined, local circuits of the rodent somatosensory cortex. These cutting-edge approaches will underpin projects investigating synaptic mechanisms driving the earliest circuit formation, network properties underlying pathological circuit formation and interventions designed to aid functional recovery of circuitry damaged by sensory perturbation.
Having recently returned to Europe following a successful postdoctoral position in the USA, I am now building my new, independent research group at the University of Bristol, UK. My successful re-integration into the European research community will allow me to transfer my skills, build my own research group, help train the next generation of research scientists and contribute important biological findings that will impact subsequent research and, ultimately, help shape our approach to managing neurological health.
Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Topic(s)
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
FP7-PEOPLE-2011-CIG
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Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
MC-CIG - Support for training and career development of researcher (CIG)
Coordinator
BS8 1QU BRISTOL
United Kingdom
The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.