Job Code: PhD 17/24
Job Offer from November 19, 2024The Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences (MPI CBS) in Leipzig is an internationally leading research institute of the Max Planck Society and is dedicated to the study of human cognition, functional brain processes and neuroanatomy. The Neural Computation Group led by NCG, PI Dr. Andrej Bicanski offers: PhD position or a Doctoral Candidate in computational neuroscience (m/f/d).
The position is part of an international collaborative effort (4 labs) to test computational models of episodic and spatial memory by combining human intracranial electrophysiology and computational models. Specifically, the project will explore computational/neural mechanisms underlying cognitive maps, spatial (and episodic) memory, and navigation. The candidate will have two main tasks: 1. develop new and improve existing models of spatial memory, constrained by human single cell recordings. 2. the candidate will also co-develop an analysis pipeline to assess spatial coding in human single units. This project is part of an international collaboration with the Universities of Bonn (Prof. Lukas Kunz), Berlin (Prof. Richard Kempter), and Columbia (Prof. Josh Jacobs).
Prerequisites are outstanding records in an area relevant to neuroscience. A strong quantitative background in the natural sciences, mathematics, computer science or engineering is also suitable (e.g., coming from physics, mathematics, electrical engineering etc.). Excellent programming skills (Python, Matlab) are required.
The candidate will be embedded in the Neural Computation Group at the Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, and the Department of Psychology.
Starting date: As early as possible in 2025. Potential candidates are thus urged to apply as quickly as possible. Applications will be considered as long as the job advertisement is accessible on the Institute’s website. The position is limited to three years. The salary is fixed in accordance with the collective agreement for the public sector: 65% TVöD E13. Funding is available for three years.
Location: Leipzig is a vibrant city that has been called “Germany’s new cultural hot spot” by the Guardian and listed as one of the 52 places to go in 2020 by the New York Times. It has a long-standing history of classical music, academic education, and—more recently—modern arts. With its many parks, forests, canals and lakes, Leipzig is a perfect place for recreation, sports, and leisure time. It is located a one-hour train ride south of Berlin. Due to the nature of the project, travel to the US will be necessary.
The Max Planck Society seeks to employ more people with disabilities and strongly encourages them to apply. Furthermore, we actively support the compatibility of work and family life. The Max Planck Society strives for gender equality and diversity.
We look forward to receiving your complete online application (reference number "PhD 17/24"). The application should include a cover letter and personal statement, CV including a list of publications if applicable, and contact details of two referees. Contact Dr. Andrej Bicanski: Bicanski@cbs.mpg.de
