PhD Position in Multisensory Evaluation of brain activity in Anorexia Nervosa

Project background :
We are seeking a highly motivated candidate to join our multidisciplinary research team at the Eating-Disorder Laboratory of Jean Monnet University, Saint-Etienne (TAPE). Led by Professor Bogdan Galusca, the TAPE team is renowned for its expertise in eating disorder research, spanning endoctrinology, nutrition, psychiatry, and medical imaging. Our team takes a comprehensive approach to understanding the biological, psychological, and social mechanisms of eating disorders, with the goal of identifying biomarkers, therapeutics targets, and developing innovative, personalized treatments. A major focus of our research is anorexia nervosa, a chronic and deadly psychiatric disorder characterized by excessive dietary control and aversion to fats, which complicates nutritional recovery. This projetc aims to investigate the brain mechanisms behing the multisensory perception (vision, smell, taste) of fats, a poorly understood phenomenon. Altered percception of lipieds in anorexia nervosa contributes to fat rejection and may perpetuate the disorder.

Research Objectives :
-Study the role of multisensory perception in aversion to fats
-Explore how sensory interdependance affects treatment approaches
-Conduct functional MRI experiments (3T) with olfactory, gustatory, and visual stimuli on patients and healthy individuals

Potential Impact :
The findings of this project could influence diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive strategies for eating disorders, particulaarly anorexia nervosa, wihich remains inadequately addressed despite alarming rates of incidence, chronicity and mortality. This research aims to develop innovative tools for treating and desensitizing food-related phobias, with a focus on fatty foods, and to improve long-term prevention and care.

A master’s degree in neuroscience and image processing

Strong interest in neuroscience and image processing, Excellent oral and written English skills, knowledge of French is a plus; Proficiency in Matlab and SPM, or prior experience ith olfactory or taste experiments is advantageous; Mobility, the project may involve a 6-months period in Montreal

~2100€/month (before taxes)

The Campus Santé at Jean Monnet Saint-Etienne University -Saint-Priest-en-Jarez, France) brings together eight research laboratories and technical platforms within the Faculty of Medecine. It serves as a hub for innovation and scientific research, leveraging state-of-the-art resources to promote seamles collaboration between academic and clinical settings.