PhD Student in Neuroscience
100%
Center for Experimental Neurology (ZEN), DBMR
Start of employment: by agreement
Duration: temporary, limited to 4 years (contract is renewable upon 2 years)
The Center for Experimental Neurology (ZEN) is a unique translational research center in the Department of Neurology at the Inselspital University Hospital Bern, Switzerland. The ZEN fosters strong collaborations between clinical and experimental laboratories with long-standing expertise in sleep, epilepsy and stroke.
To further strengthen our group, we are seeking a motivated candidate to be part of our translational research program.
Tasks
This project aims to elucidate neural mechanisms integrating thermoregulatory signals and brain state modulation, including rapid eye movement (REM) sleep and cataplexy in narcolepsy. Using genetically engineered mouse models, the chosen candidate will investigate the neural networks responsible for these phenomena using state-of-the-art techniques, including in vivo electrophysiology, optogenetics, neuroimaging technologies and behavioral testing. The candidate will also test predictions derived from the animal work in a clinical translational protocol in patients with narcolepsy.
Your profile
Master in neurophysiology, neuroengineering, biology or MD degree; Solid communication skills in English and team-oriented work; Strong scientific motivation and interest in collaborating with a multidisciplinary team; Experience with one or more of the following are assets: in vivo microsurgeries, sleep recording, optogenetics, animal behavioral testing, ability to work with clinical patients and computer programming (Matlab, Spike 2, C++, etc).
The package
PhD training in system neuroscience; Position involves working with an interdisciplinary team of experimental and clinical scientists; International environment; Salary according to the rules of the Swiss SNSF.
Application and contact
Please send applications including CV, motivation letter and contact information for two references by email to Dr. Markus Schmidt (markus.schmidt@insel.ch) until 28.02.2025.
