About the opportunity
A PhD position and research associate role is available in the Department of Neuropsychology at the Faculty of Psychology, Ruhr University Bochum, starting January 1st, 2027 or upon filling. Part of the Research Unit FOR 6027 Layers of Memory, the position investigates the laminar basis of medial temporal lobe hyperactivity in aging and early Alzheimer’s disease using 7T ultra-high resolution functional and structural network connectivity and activity. The work involves measuring layer-specific fMRI activity in amyloid-positive mild cognitive impairment patients during spatial learning compared to controls. The role is jointly supervised by PIs Anne Maass at Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg and Nikolai Axmacher at Ruhr University Bochum.
Salary and benefits
- Salaried part-time position (25.89 hours/week, 65%) under the collective agreement of the Länder (TV-L), pay grade E13 TV-L if requirements are met
- No teaching obligation if funded by third-party funds
- Challenging and varied tasks with a high level of independence within an interdisciplinary team
- Extensive training and professional development opportunities
- Free German and English language courses provided by the University Language Center
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
- Enthusiasm for working as part of an interdisciplinary team of researchers
- Competence in either German or English and willingness to learn the other language
Required documents
- Cover letter
- Curriculum vitae
- Certificates (e.g., employment certificates, degree certificates, training certificates)
When to apply
- Application deadline is October 19, 2026
- Position starts January 1st, 2027 (flexible)
How to apply
- Prepare your application documents including a cover letter, CV, and certificates
- Submit your application through the official online application portal referencing ANR 6201
Additional information
- The position is fixed-term for a duration of 4 years
- Reference number for the application is ANR 6201
- The position is advertised subject to project approval
- Travel and accommodation costs for interviews 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…
- An ideal match for early-career researchers holding a Master's degree in psychology or cognitive science who want to pursue a PhD
- Strong fit for candidates with solid programming, statistics, and fMRI data analysis skills
- Provides a unique collaborative environment with joint supervision across two German universities in an advanced 7T MRI research unit
What should you think carefully about?
- The position is part-time at 65% (25.89 hours per week), which may impact total compensation relative to full-time posts
- Fixed-term contract limited to 4 years
- Relocation to Bochum or the surrounding Ruhr metropolitan region is required as the physical workplace is at Ruhr University Bochum
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This position offers an excellent stepping stone for researchers aiming to complete a structured PhD in cognitive neuroscience while gaining hands-on experience with ultra-high field 7T fMRI and neurodegenerative disease mechanisms.
Our take
Applicants with a background in psychology or cognitive science who possess strong technical skills in programming and neuroimaging should seriously consider this structured PhD opportunity.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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