093/2026 Postdoctoral Scientist (m/f/d) in systems

093/2026 Postdoctoral Scientist (m/f/d) in systems

Salary scale: 13 TV-L

Start date: from 1st August 2026 onwards

Fixed term: 3 years

Contract status: 100 %

Arbeitsort

Magdeburg

The Chair of Neuronal Computation (Prof. J. Kremkow – Heisenberg Professorship) of the Faculty of Natural Sciences seeks to fill the following vacancy. The Heisenberg Professorship for Neuronal Computation, led by Prof. Dr. Jens Kremkow at the OVGU Magdeburg, investigates the neural basis of sensory guided behaviors in mice. Our research focuses on the relationship between neurons, circuits, and behavior using state‑of‑the‑art neuronal recording techniques, optogenetics, and computational models.

Position

We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral scientist to investigate circuit mechanisms underlying sensorimotor behaviors across brain‑wide networks, with a focus on adaptive sensorimotor processing. The successful candidate will use high‑dimensional, multi‑site neurophysiological recordings with multiple Neuropixels probes in mice to uncover how neurons in subcortical circuits (including superior colliculus and cerebellum) dynamically interact with cortical circuits to process sensory information and generate appropriate motor outputs. This will be integrated with two‑photon calcium imaging in the cortex, collaborating with Prof. Janelle Pakan at the Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology. The work will characterize functional interactions between subcortical and cortical circuits at cellular resolution and help define the principles by which distributed neural networks support adaptive sensorimotor behavior.

Responsibilities

• Investigate the neural basis of adaptive sensorimotor behaviors using in vivo high‑dimensional neurophysiological recordings in mice.
• Determine the direct contribution of specific circuit elements to sensory processing, motor planning and control through advanced data analysis.
• Explore mechanisms of brain‑wide circuit interaction in vivo through simultaneous recordings with multiple Neuropixels probes and two‑photon calcium imaging.
• Collaborate within a multi‑disciplinary team and take responsibility for research progress, reporting, and presentations at scientific meetings.
• Contribute to development of data analysis methods and foster international collaborations.
• Contribute to teaching students (mentoring provided) – 4 SWS.

Requirements

• Completed academic university degree (Master/Diplom) and PhD in a neuroscience‑related field with a strong quantitative background.
• Highly advantageous experience includes behavioral paradigms in neuroscience, advanced data analysis, histological processing and microscopic imaging of brain tissue (to verify recording sites), and experience in programming with Python and statistical methods.
• Excellent language skills in English; German language skills welcome but not essential.
• Confidence and motivation to develop data analysis techniques and drive research projects forward.

Legal Compliance

Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg is a signatory of the German Diversity Charter. We welcome applications from people regardless of gender, cultural and social background, age or sexual orientation. Applications from severely disabled people or people with an equivalent impairment will be given priority in case of equal suitability, ability and professional expertise. Gender equality is strongly promoted in all professional areas.