Job ID: 122775

PhD student position in neuroscience

Position: Ph.D. Student

Deadline: 31 July 2025

Employment Start Date: 1 June 2025

Contract Length: 3 years

City: Aachen

Country: Germany

Institution: RWTH Aachen University

Department: Systems Neurophysiology

Description:

Do you remember what you did on your last birthday? And do you remember what you did the day before?

What we memorize and what we forget is constantly filtered, so that important information takes priority. But how does this filtering mechanism work? How do our emotions, our mood or our interactions with others impact our memory of an event or a location?

This PhD project in the Systems Neurophysiology Lab at the RWTH Aachen University aims to answer these questions by studying the neuronal circuits underlying memory generation in the hippocampus. Using state-of-the-art techniques, such as 2-photon functional neuronal imaging, patch-clamp electrophysiology and optogenetic stimulation we will uncover the mechanisms by which signals, encoding emotional states and social cues, interact with the steady stream of sensory information with which we perceive our environment to form new memories.

We are currently looking for highly motivated PhD students to participate in this study. Experience in patch-clamp recordings, imaging or behavioral neuroscience as well as computer programming skills (such as Python or Matlab) are welcome. Intense training in neuroscience, technical expertise, data management and analysis will be provided. You will be part of a lively research group, collaborating with other groups in the institute and at the university clinic. As part of your PhD studies, you will also participate in progress reports and discussions on all active projects, as well as our journal club.

We especially encourage women, and students from diverse and interdisciplinary backgrounds to apply.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Conduct independent and collaborative research the field of neuroscience.
  • Design and execute experiments/studies related to the project.
  • Analyze data and interpret results.
  • Prepare manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals.
  • Present findings at conferences and seminars.
  • Collaborate with team members and contribute to ongoing projects.

Qualifications:

  • Master’s degree (or equivalent)
  • Strong background in neuroscience or related fields
  • Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
  • Proficiency in programming (Python, Matlab) is preferred.

What We Offer:

  • A stimulating research environment at one of Europe’s leading technical universities.
  • Access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources.
  • Opportunities for professional development and networking.
  • Competitive salary according to university guidelines.

How to Apply: Interested candidates should submit the following documents:

  1. A cover letter outlining your motivation and qualifications for the position.
  2. Curriculum Vitae (CV).
  3. Copies of academic transcripts and certificates.
  4. Contact information for two references.