About the opportunity
The Cheng Lab at Ruhr-Universität Bochum is seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow to join a dynamic research team within the Collaborative Research Center (CRC) 1280, ‘Extinction Learning.’ The role involves analyzing learning dynamics in behavioral, neural, and psychophysiological data, developing algorithms, and creating computational models of learning. The successful candidate will collaborate with experimentalists and coordinate research across participating projects. This is a full-time, fixed-term position until June 30, 2029, with no teaching obligations if funded by third-party sources. The university offers a supportive environment with flexible working options and family-friendly services.
Salary and benefits
- Salaried position based on the collective agreement of the Länder (TV-L), typically pay grade E13
- Flexible working arrangements, including mobile and teleworking options
- Support for work-life balance, including childcare and holiday offers
- Collaboration within a committed, interdisciplinary research team
- Access to free language courses for employees
Who can apply?
- Doctorate degree in neuroscience, physics, mathematics, electrical/biomedical engineering, or a closely related field
- Relevant experience in mathematical modeling
- Excellent programming skills (e.g., Python, C/C++, Matlab)
- Excellent communication skills in English
- Ability to work effectively in a team
- Research experience in neuroscience is considered an asset
Required documents
- Cover letter
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Transcripts (Bachelor and Master)
- Research statement
When to apply
- Application deadline: 2026-11-02
How to apply
- Prepare all required documents as a single PDF file
- Submit the application via the official online application portal
- Reference number ANR 6177 must be included in the application
Additional information
- The position is based at Ruhr University Bochum, Germany.
- Campus languages are German and English; competence in at least one and willingness to learn the other is required.
- The university is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from women and individuals with disabilities.
- Travel and interview costs cannot be reimbursed.
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…
- Candidates with a strong background in mathematical modeling and proficiency in Python, C/C++, or Matlab will be well-positioned for the technical requirements of the role.
- Researchers interested in interdisciplinary collaboration between computational modeling and experimental neuroscience will find the CRC 1280 environment highly relevant.
- Individuals seeking a stable, long-term postdoctoral position through 2029 will benefit from the project-based funding duration.
What should you think carefully about?
- Applicants should be prepared to work in a bilingual environment (German/English) and be willing to learn the language they are less proficient in.
- The position is fixed-term until June 30, 2029, which is tied to the specific project duration.
- Relocation to Bochum, Germany, is necessary as the role is on-site.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This position is ideal for a researcher looking to deepen their expertise in computational neuroscience within a large-scale, collaborative research center. It provides a structured, well-funded environment that allows for a focus on high-level research without the pressure of teaching duties, making it an excellent stepping stone for those aiming for further academic or specialized research roles.
Our take
This is a strong opportunity for postdocs with a solid foundation in mathematical modeling and programming who want to apply their skills to complex learning and memory research. It is particularly suitable for those who thrive in collaborative, interdisciplinary settings and are looking for a stable, multi-year research commitment in Germany.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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