Job ID: 123593

PhD Position in Developmental Neuroscience

Position: Ph.D. Student

Deadline: 15 September 2025

Contract Length: 4 years

City: Alicante

Country: Spain

Institution: Institute of Neuroscience, Alicante, Spain

Department: Developmental Neurobiology

Description:

The López-Bendito Lab at the Instituto de Neurociencias (UMH–CSIC), a leading center for developmental and systems neuroscience, is seeking a highly motivated PhD student to join our team under a newly funded project by the Spanish Agency of Research.

This PhD position is part of an ambitious project aiming to uncover how early spontaneous neural activity patternsinteract with genetic transcriptional programs to shape sensory cortical arealization during development. Using cutting-edge tools in neurogenetics, imaging, and transcriptomics, we will investigate how disruptions in this interplay may lead to sensory map alterations, with implications for understanding neurodevelopmental disorders.

Key methodologies will include:

  • In vivo manipulation of spontaneous activity
  • Region-specific genetic perturbations
  • Single-cell and spatial transcriptomics
  • Imaging of developing sensory circuits in mouse models

 Candidate Profile

We welcome applications from outstanding and enthusiastic candidates with:

  • A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Neuroscience, Biology, Biomedical Sciences, or related fields
  • A strong interest in brain development, sensory systems, and molecular neurobiology
  • Experience in laboratory research; prior work with rodent models or molecular techniques is a plus
  • High motivation, critical thinking, and ability to work independently and in a team
  • Good communication skills in English (spoken and written)

 What We Offer

  • A 4-year, fully funded PhD position (FPI scheme)
  • Access to state-of-the-art facilities and an interdisciplinary, collaborative research environment
  • Supervision and mentoring from internationally recognized leaders in developmental neuroscience
  • Opportunities for training in advanced neurotechnologies, bioinformatics, and scientific communication
  • Participation in national and international conferences and collaborative networks

How to Apply

Please send your CV, academic transcripts, a brief motivation letter, and contact details of two referees to:

📧 g.lbendito@umh.es
🗓️ Deadline for applications: 15th September 2025

📍 Start date: Flexible, ideally Autumn 2025

Join us in uncovering the fundamental principles that guide the formation of the sensory brain!

For more information about our lab: https://lopezbenditolab.com