PhD Position on Spatial Navigation and Aging
(Two posts)
The German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases is a center of excellence within the Helmholtz Association that performs translational research on neurodegenerative diseases. The center includes nine high-performing sites in Berlin, Bonn, Dresden, Göttingen, Magdeburg, Munich, Rostock / Greifswald, Tübingen and Witten.
The positions are part of a large-scale project funded by the European Research Council (ERC). In this project, we seek to understand mechanisms of cognitive aging by studying navigational decline in older adults with cuttingâedge interactive virtual reality systems and with ultra-high field neuroimaging. You will help to develop spatial navigation markers of age-related cognitive change, employ multimodal neuroimaging approaches to characterize underlying neuronal changes, evaluate novel therapeutic interventions and potentially combine this with genetic analyses. Importantly, the successful candidates (f/m) will be encouraged to develop their own research interests, and, if desired, they can be involved in teaching activities.
In addition to hosting research dedicated 3T and 7T MRI scanners, the Magdeburg site of the DZNE, where the group is based, provides access to mobile EEG, MEG, TMS and eyetracking systems. Furthermore, the aging and cognition lab has a range of cutting-edge virtual reality setups, and it entertains multiple collaborations with collaborators in Europe and in the United States. Finally, Magdeburg offers a unique intellectual environment, because spatial navigation is a core theme investigated across several animal and human research groups.
For these positions, a strong interest in cognitive aging is important, and excellent statistical skills are a plus. Furthermore, you will have, or be in the final stages of, a BSc/MSc in psychology, cognitive neuroscience, neuroimaging methods or applied statistics. Ideally, you should also possess computer programming skills (e.g. in Matlab). You will be thorough, efficient, a good communicator, and enjoy working as part of an international and dynamic team.
For further information about this unique opportunity, please email Thomas Wolbers (thomas.wolbers@dzne.de). To learn more about our research, please visit our website (www.wolberslab.net).
Employment, payment and social benefits are consistent with those at other research institutes. The job location is Magdeburg, Germany.
The positions are available from 01 January 2013, but applications will be considered until the positions are filled. The DZNE is an equal opportunity employer. The DZNE is committed to employing disabled individuals and especially encourages them to apply.
Interested candidates should send their applications including a CV, a letter stating research interests and the names and contact information of two references to Anett Kirmess (Anett.Kirmess@dzne.de via the Apply button below).