Job ID: 123604
PhD Position in the Neurobiology of Memory and Engrams – University of Jaén, Spain
Position: Ph.D. Student
Deadline: 7 September 2025
Contract Length: 4 years
City: JAEN
Country: Spain
Institution: Universidad de Jaén
Department: Department of Health Sciences
Description:
A fully funded, four-year PhD position is available in the molecular and cellular neuroscience of memory.
The successful candidate will join a newly established research team led by Dr. Clara Ortega-de San Luis, Ramón y Cajal Fellow, at the Department of Health Sciences, University of Jaén (UJA), in southern Spain. The position is funded by the State Research Agency.
The lab investigates the mechanisms underlying memory function and engram cell biology, exploring how memories are formed and regulated. We use a range of experimental approaches, including optogenetics, engram labeling, genetic manipulation, mouse transgenics, microscopy and behavioral analysis. For an overview of our conceptual background, see: Ortega-de San Luis & Ryan, J. Biol. Chem, 2022.
This position offers an opportunity to contribute intellectually and technically to the early development of a collaborative, dynamic research team, with a network of international collaborators. The PhD student will work closely with other researchers and technical staff. Participation in departmental activities, including support for undergraduate teaching, is also expected.
Applicants must hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent EQF level 7 qualification) in neuroscience or a related discipline (biology, biomedicine, biotechnology, neuroscience, psychology, biochemistry, immunology…etc). The ideal candidate will have a strong academic background, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and a high level of motivation to contribute to building a new research environment. Desirable, but not required: prior experience and formal certification in animal-handling. The ideal candidate will be collaborative and proactive in problem-solving.
Host institution
Founded in 1993, the University of Jaén is a young and dynamic institution in Andalusia, southern Spain. A member of the NEOLAiA European University Alliance, UJA hosts modern research facilities, interdisciplinary networks and a community of nearly 18,000 people. Among the most internationalized in Spain, welcoming 2,500+ international students annually, UJA provides support for international researchers, including free Spanish language courses, relocation services, and onboarding assistance (https://www.ujaen.es/internacional/en/welcome-center). Living in Jaén offers a high quality of life, affordable living, rich cultural heritage, and access to nature. The city is well-connected, with proximity to Granada, Málaga, Seville and Madrid.
To apply, please submit a single PDF including your cover letter, CV, academic transcripts and contact information for two referees to clara.ortega@ujaen.es. Informal discussions prior to applications are encouraged.