Two-photon scanning microscope for in vivo experiments

• Subject Area: Neurosciences
• Term: Funded in 2025
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 563613062

Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU Munich) requests a 2-photon resonant scanning microscope to enable the newly appointed tenure-track W2 Professor of Systemic Neuroscience, Dr. Anna Schroeder, to establish advanced chronic in vivo imaging and optogenetics techniques in her lab, opening in April 2025 within the Division of Neurobiology at the Faculty of Biology. This approach will be the core technique used by her group and is therefore essential for the success of her research program. This microscope will be used to study neural circuit mechanisms of internal state driven behavioral flexibility, including a focus on how neuromodulation can transform these computations with the aim to develop new therapeutic directions for psychiatric disease. Specifically, the group ultimately aims to identify: (i) which cell types and circuits process internal state changes, (ii) how internal states modify circuit activity to enable adaptive behavior, and (iii) how neuromodulation via deep brain stimulation shapes neuronal activity, internal states and behavior. To achieve these goals, Dr. Schroeder’s lab will employ in vivo 2-photon calcium imaging and targeted optogenetics in mice during diverse behavioral paradigms. Leveraging advanced machine learning techniques, the group will link multimodal behavioral changes to corresponding patterns of neuronal activity. This unique instrument will provide state-of-the-art imaging capabilities for chronic in vivo studies of the brain at the Biocenter of LMU Munich, home to the Faculty of Biology. Currently, there is no equivalent tool available for imaging or optogenetics in the rodent brain in the Biocenter, making it crucial for advancing the research of basic neuroscience groups within the Division of Neurobiology, many of which work with rodents. Dr. Schroeder brings extensive experience with this cutting-edge technology and will spearhead its implementation, training and maintenance within the department. Although the microscope will overwhelming be used for research purposes and collaborative projects, especially with other members of the Faculty of Biology, namely Prof. Dr. Laura Busse, Dr. Anton Sumser, Prof. Dr. David Keays and PD Dr. Michael Pecka, the microscope will also serve in part as a resource for training programs for students in the Graduate School of Systemic Neuroscience (GSN) at LMU Munich.

• DFG Programme: Major Research Instrumentation
• Major Instrumentation: Zwei-Photonen-Scanning-Mikroskop für in vivo-Experimente
• Instrumentation Group: 5090 Spezialmikroskope
• Applicant Institution: Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München
• Leader: Anna Schroeder, Ph.D.