#  Research Assistant Position: Generating a 3D Model of the Brain Using 2D Histology Sections of Non-Human Primate 

 



 Research Assistant Position: Generating a 3D Model of the Brain Using 2D Histology Sections of Non-Human Primate  
Dr. Sohrab Najafian and Prof. Margaret Livingstone, Medical School  
fall 2024

We study how visual recognition occurs in the primate brain, using behavior, brain imaging, and electrophysiology. We record neuronal responses in the primate visual cortex and analyze these using various computational approaches. **Responsibilities**: We have a large dataset of non-human primate brain sections; with those we want to generate a 3D model of the brain. The role of the RA would be to help scanning the sections using a whole slide scanner, preprocessing the scans using image processing toolboxes, aligning the sections with the neighboring slides, reconstructing the 3D matrix out of the registered 2D sections, aligning the reconstructed volume with MRI data. The ultimate goal of the project is to understand whether similar simple genetic rules drive the organization in higher visual areas. This would be a great project for an undergrad interested in doing system neuroscience in future considering a wide range of techniques that the person would learn throughout this project. **Requirements and Expectations:** 10 hours per week. Experience with Matlab/Python is highly preferred. **Additional Information:** The lab is located on the Longwood Medical Campus. Participation can be either virtual or in-person. As a result of the project, the student will gain experience working with fMRI and anatomical software such as AFNI, ANTs, and FreeSurfer, as well as deep learning methods for segmenting and classifying biological objects in histology images. A letter of recommendation will be provided for the student’s contributions. **To Apply**: email [Sohrab\_najafian@hms.harvard.edu](mailto:Sohrab_najafian@hms.harvard.edu) if you are interested. (posted 9/2024)

 



 

 See also:- [ Undergrad Research or Opportunity ](/page-type/undergrad-research-opportunity)