PhD Candidate in Systems Neuroscience

Introduction

The Cognitive and Systems Neuroscience  (CSN) group is looking for a highly qualified and motivated PhD candidate to conduct research activities within the context of the Human Brain Project (HBP), resulting in a doctoral dissertation. The research will focus on neural mechanisms of perception, multisensory integration, interactions between sensory and memory systems, and conscious representation. These topics are addressed using a variety of methods, such as ensemble recordings in task-performing subjects, optogenetics, computational modelling and advanced analysis of neuraldata. 

You will join an international HBP team led by the CSN group, aiming to unravel neural mechanisms of multisensory integration and segregation in relation to the neural basis of consciousness. The experimental work will comprise behavioral testing, multi-area electrophysiology and/or 2-photon imaging, optogenetics and data analysis. Results will be embedded in an integrated, HBP-based approach with computational modelling and neurorepresentationalism as a theoretical framework for understanding the neural basis consciousness. Within the HBP, you will be involved in data curation and the collaborative shaping of a European digital research infrastructure, EBRAINS.

What are you going to do

You are expected to

• complete and defend a PhD thesis within the official appointment duration of four years;
• perform a series of experiments integrating multi-area electrophysiology (with Neuropixels probes), widefield calcium imaging, optogenetic manipulation of specific cortical pathways and possibly also 2- photon imaging in mice trained to perform a multisensory discrimination task. The experiments are derived from a theoretical framework postulating that interactions between sensory modalities in the cortex subserve multisensory integration as well as segregation, which is deemed essential for conscious representations to arise;
• interact with international and local researchers participating in the HBP consortium on the topic of data curation and computational modelling;
• present your research results at workshops and conferences; 
• participate in the Research School and Faculty of Science PhD training programmes; 
• assist in teaching undergraduates and Master’s students.

What do we require

• a Master’s degree, preferably in systems neuroscience or related field;
• significant experience in in vivo electrophysiology (silicon probes or similar technology), functional imaging (preferably 2-photon and/or widefield calcium imaging) and optogenetics;
• experience in animal training and behaviour, preferably in possession of a FELASA B (article 9) licence for animal experiments; 
• experience in, or at least affinity with, computational neuroscience and/or theory of consciousness;
• experience in computer programming and neural data analysis.

Our offer

We offer you a temporary contract for 38 hours per week for the duration of four years, preferably starting on 1 June 2022. The initial contract will be for a period of 18 months and after satisfactory evaluation it will be extended for a total duration of four years. This should lead to a dissertation (PhD thesis). We will draft an educational plan that includes attendance of courses and (international) meetings. 

Your salary will range between €2,443 in the first year to €3,122 gross per month in the last year of employment, on the basis of a full working week of 38 hours. This sum does not include the 8% holiday allowance and the 8.3% year-end allowance. A favorable tax agreement, the 30% ruling, may apply to non-Dutch applicants. The Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (CAO NU) is applicable. 

Are you curious about our extensive package of secondary employment benefits like our excellent opportunities for study and development? More information can be found here . 

About us 

The University of Amsterdam is the largest university in the Netherlands, with the broadest spectrum of degree programmes. It is an intellectual hub with 30,000 students, 6,000 employees and 3,000 doctoral students who are all committed to a culture of inquiring minds and scientific excellence.

The Faculty of Science has a student body of around 8,000, as well as 1,800 members of staff working in education, research or support services. Researchers and students at the Faculty of Science are fascinated by every aspect of how the world works, be it elementary particles, the birth of the universe or the functioning of the brain. 

The Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences  (SILS) is one of the Faculty of Science’s largest institutes. Its approximately 240 scientists and staff members work in 16 research groups that perform excellent research centered on four themes: Neurosciences, Cell & Systems Biology, Microbiology and Green Life Sciences. Do you want to know more about our organization? Read more about working at the University of Amsterdam.

Questions

Do you have any questions or do you require additional information? Please contact:

Job application

If you feel the profile fits you, and you are interested in the job, we look forward to receiving your application. You can apply online via the button below. We accept applications until and including 8 May 2022.

We aim to invite potential candidates for interviews in the first half of May 2022.

Applications should include the following information (all files besides your cv should be submitted in one single pdf file): 

• a cover letter with your motivation to apply for this position;
• a complete and up-to-date curriculum vitae;
• contact information for at least two academic referees.

Please mention the months (not just years) in your cv when referring to your education and work experience.

The UvA is an equal-opportunity employer. We prioritize diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for everyone. We value a spirit of enquiry and perseverance, provide the space to keep asking questions, and promote a culture of curiosity and creativity.

If you encounter Error GBB451, reach out to our HR Department  directly. They will gladly help you continue your application. 

No agencies please