Ph.D. Student Position in Systems Neuroscience

FAU Erlangen-NürnbergErlangen

Stellenbeschreibung:

Your Workplace

Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Friedrich‑Alexander‑Universität Erlangen‑Nürnberg (FAU)

Benefits: We Have a Lot To Offer

Regular promotion to the next level and increase in salary pursuant to the collective bargaining agreement for the public service of the German Länder (TV‑L) or remuneration pursuant to the Bavarian Public Servants Remuneration Act (BayBesG) plus an additional annual bonus
30 days annual leave at five working days per week with additional free days on December 24 and 31
Flexible working hours and models and the possibility to take time off in lieu
Occupational pension scheme and asset accumulation savings scheme
Family‑friendly environment with childcare options, also during school holidays
Working from home generally possible after training
A wide range of training courses and opportunities for professional development
Thorough onboarding process with a dedicated team
Joint team activities
Subsidised food and drinks in our student restaurants
Offices within comfortable walking distance of public transport
Active health management
IT‑supported facility management system

Your Tasks

The laboratory of Prof. A. Ponomarenko is seeking a doctoral student with a strong interest in the dynamics of neuronal circuits and behavior. A central research topic of our group is neural coding and dynamics underpinning cognitive control of learned and instinctive (innate) behaviors. Using in vivo electrophysiology, opto‑, chemogenetics, and machine learning approaches we have previously shown that network oscillations organise neuronal signalling from the hippocampus, prefrontal cortex, and the lateral septum to and within the hypothalamus, and crucially contribute to the regulation of locomotion (Bender et al., 2015), food seeking (Carus‑Cadavieco et al., 2017) and intake (Altafi et al., 2024), and behavioural transitions (Chen et al., 2024).

Your Profile

You hold a Master’s (or equivalent) in neuroscience or a related field and are genuinely curious about neuronal dynamics and behavior. Prior experience with in vivo techniques, including animal behaviour and computational data analysis, is highly beneficial. Motivation to acquire computer coding skills is required. You bring a constructive, problem‑solving mindset to the project, are prepared for sustained and focused work, and value effective communication with your team and supervisor.

Application process

Apply online
Automatic confirmation of receipt sent by e‑mail
Place of employment views applications
Invitation to first interview
Optional invitation to second interview in person at FAU
Is there a match?
Employment documents prepared
Consultation with Staff Council
Commencement of employment – welcome to FAU

Notice

For all job postings, the following applies: Friedrich‑Alexander‑Universität promotes equal professional opportunities for women. Women are therefore expressly encouraged to apply. Severely disabled persons as defined by the German Severely Disabled Persons Act will be given preferential consideration if they have the same professional qualifications and personal aptitude and if the advertised position is suitable for severely disabled persons. Details can be found in the respective job posting under “Remarks.” At the applicant’s request, the Equal Opportunities Officer may be included in the job interview without any disadvantage to the applicant. All advertised positions are generally suitable for part‑time work unless stated otherwise in the job posting.