About the opportunity
A PhD position/research associate position is available in the Department of Neuropsychology (head: Prof. Dr. Nikolai Axmacher) at the Faculty of Psychology, Ruhr University Bochum, starting January 1st, 2027 (flexible). This position is part of the Research Unit ‘Layers of Memory’ (FOR 6027), which aims to unravel the mesoscale organization of the human medial temporal lobe using laminar 7T MRI. The overarching research initiative comprises eight projects across eight sites in Germany, Austria, and the Netherlands. The specific subproject will be jointly led by PIs Nikolai Axmacher (Ruhr University Bochum) and Oliver Speck (Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg). The work utilizes the Terra.X Impulse Edition 7T MR scanner at OVGU Magdeburg to investigate laminar activity profiles of episodic memory and spatial navigation.
Salary and benefits
- Salary based on the collective agreement of the Länder (TV-L) at pay grade E13 TV-L, provided personal and collective agreement requirements are met
- Part-time appointment at 25.89 hours/week (65%)
- Fixed-term contract for a duration of 4 years
- Joint supervision by two PIs in Bochum and Magdeburg
- Participation in dedicated 7T workshops of the Research Unit
- Extensive training and professional development opportunities
- No teaching obligation if funded by third-party funds
- Free German language courses offered by the University Language Center (ZFA)
Who can apply?
- Master's degree in psychology, cognitive science, or a related field
- Strong programming and statistical skills
- Prior experience with fMRI is an advantage
- Ability to work independently, in a structured manner, and with a focus on results
- Enjoyment of working as part of an interdisciplinary team of researchers
- Competence in at least one of the campus languages (German or English) and willingness to learn the other
Required documents
- Cover letter
- Curriculum vitae
- References and certificates (e.g., employment certificates, degree certificates, training certificates)
When to apply
- Application deadline: October 19, 2026
- Expected start date: January 1st, 2027 (flexible)
How to apply
- Prepare your application documents including a cover letter, CV, and certificates
- Submit your application via the online application portal
- Ensure you mention reference number ANR 6198 in your application
Additional information
- The position is advertised subject to project approval.
- The place of work is Ruhr University Bochum, though research data acquisition will involve the 7T scanner at Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg.
- Travel costs, accommodation costs, and loss of earnings for job interviews cannot be reimbursed.
- The Ruhr-Universität Bochum is an equal opportunities employer and explicitly encourages applications from women and individuals with disabilities.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- You hold a Master's degree in psychology, cognitive science, or a related discipline with a strong quantitative and programming background.
- You are eager to pursue a PhD while contributing to cutting-edge cognitive neuroscience research using ultra-high-field 7T fMRI.
- You value collaborative, interdisciplinary team environments bridging multiple universities across countries.
What should you think carefully about?
- The role is offered on a part-time basis (65%, 25.89 hours/week), which you should factor into your financial and lifestyle planning.
- The position is fixed-term for a duration of 4 years, tied to a specific research grant project.
- Relocation to the Bochum area in Germany is required as the primary workplace is Ruhr University Bochum.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This position offers an exceptional stepping stone for early-career researchers aiming for an academic career or advanced specialization in human memory systems, neuroimaging, and cognitive neuroscience. The structured joint supervision and integration into a large multi-site Research Unit provide substantial networking and publication opportunities.
Our take
This role is ideal for aspiring PhD candidates and early-career researchers with strong computational skills and a keen interest in high-resolution neuroimaging. Those seeking permanent industry employment immediately or unable to commit to a fixed-term, part-time academic contract may find it less suitable.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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