Job Opportunities in Germany

Vacancy Notice 313/2024

Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg (OVGU) is an internationally oriented and regionally networked university with a strong research profile.

The Department of Biology of Neuronale Computation of the Faculty of Natural Sciences seeks to fill the following vacancy:

Research Associate (m/f/d) in systems and computational neuroscience

Salary scale:
13 TV-L

Date commencing: 01.10.2024

Fixed term (until):
3 years

Contract status:
50 %

The Heisenberg Professorship for Neuronale Computation, led by Prof. Dr. Jens Kremkow at the OVGU Magdeburg, investigates the neural basis of visually guided behavior in mice. Our research focuses on the relationship between neurons, circuits, and behavior using methods such as cellular neurophysiology, state-of-the-art high-density neuronal recording techniques, optogenetics, and computational models.

We are seeking a research associate to explore the circuit mechanisms underlying the functional organization of the retino-collicular circuit, particularly in the context of development and plasticity in adult networks. The project involves analyzing high-dimensional, multi-site neurophysiological recordings in the mouse retino-collicular circuit to determine the principles of its functional organization and to develop data-driven computational models of the relevant neuronal circuits.

Tasks:

• to investigate the neural basis of the functional organization in the superior colliculus using high-dimensional neurophysiological recordings
• to determine the direct contribution of specific circuit elements to functional response properties of neurons in the superior colliculus in adult mice through computational modeling
• to investigate mechanisms of how the retino-collicular circuit changes during development using developmental computational models
• to collaborate within a multi-disciplinary team and taking responsibility for research progress and research reporting, presentations at scientific meetings etc.
• to contribute to the development of data analysis methods and the fostering of international collaborations
• to contribute to teaching students (mentoring will be provided)

Requirements:

• a Master in neuroscience and a strong quantitative background
• experience in computational modelling of the developmental changes in visual circuits
• experience in programming with Python and in statistical methods
• experience with data analysis of neurophysiological data, including the data analysis of Neuropixels recordings, e.g. high dimensional neuronal activity
• excellent language skills in English (German language skills are welcome but not essential)
• confidence and motivation to develop data analysis techniques and to drive research projects forward

This is a fixed term post for three years. If you have questions about the advertised position, please contact Prof. Jens Kremkow (jens(at)kremkow.de). For further information about the research group, please see .

Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, with its associated institutes, has an internationally renowned scientific profile in Neuroscience. Magdeburg is a vibrant and multidisciplinary scientific environment offering a broad range of opportunities for cutting-edge neuroscience research.

You will benefit from our structures and offerings in the fields of sustainability, diversity, family support and staff development. Our location in the center of a thriving, lively and family-friendly state capital guarantees a high quality of life and a wide range of leisure activities. For more information, please visit .

Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg is a signatory of the German Diversity Charter. We welcome your application, 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 the case of equal suitability, ability and professional expertise. Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg strongly promotes gender equality in all professional areas.

Please note the information for storage of personal data: .

Please send your complete application (cover letter, statement of research experience, curriculum vitae, names of two referees) by September 19, 2024 using the online application portal.

Otto-von-Guericke-Universität Magdeburg
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