Jason M Samonds, PhD

Postdoctoral Research Associate

University of Texas at Austin, Center for Learning and Memory

May 2022 – present (independent PI status)

 

I am working on two independent projects with grant proposals currently under review with the NIH and DOD for funding. The first project is a collaboration with Aaron McGee’s laboratory in Louisville to look at the development of binocular depth discrimination in mice using behavioral measurements, two-photon imaging, and DREADDs experiments.  The second project is looking at deficits in binocular vision in a mouse autism/Fragile-X model (FMR1 KO) using behavioral measurements, two-photon imaging, and optogenetic experiments.

​

Postdoctoral Research Associate

University of Texas at Austin, Center for Learning and Memory

June 2015 – present (supervisor: Nicholas Priebe, PhD)

 

I am studying the neurophysiological mechanisms and behavior of stereopsis in the mouse visual system. I am using electrophysiological, two photon and intrinsic optical imaging, and optogenetic methods in acute and awake, behaving preparations to examine neuronal circuits in the visual cortex. I am also studying eye movement statistics in mice, marmosets, and humans (collaboration with Guillaume Masson’s laboratory in Marseille, France). I mentor and supervise other post-docs, graduate students, undergraduate students, and research technicians.

 

Postdoctoral Research Associate

Carnegie Mellon University, Center for the Neural Basis of Cognition

January 2005 – May 2015 (supervisor: Tai Sing Lee, PhD)

 

My primary research goal was to test hypotheses about potential neurophysiological mechanisms of statistical inference among networks of V1 and V2 neurons. I used chronically implanted 100-electrode silicon arrays and the 32-electrode Gray Matter microdrive chamber system that allowed me to record from populations of neurons in areas V1 through V4 in awake, behaving macaques over a period of years.  I mentored and supervised other post-docs, graduate students, and undergraduate students majoring in computer science, engineering, and neuroscience.