A DFG-funded PhD position is available at the Department of Systems Neuroscience / University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf in Hamburg, Germany. Starting date is as soon as possible and the position is for up to 3 years. We are looking for a PhD candidate to work on a study investigating the effects of weight and weight loss on homeostatic, reward-related and mnestic brain circuits in young and old participants. The study is part of the newly DFG-funded collaborative research centre “Ingestive Behavior: Homeostasis and Reward” (TR-134) in which researchers from the universities of Cologne, Lübeck and Hamburg work together on an interdisciplinary research program.

The successful candidate will primarily be responsible for collecting and analyzing fMRI and behavioral data, writing scientific papers and giving scientific presentations. The project includes intranasal insulin application as well as a 3-month dietary intervention.

The ideal candidate should have a Diploma/Master in psychology, neuroscience, or a related field. Experience with fMRI acquisition and analysis (e.g. SPM), programming skills (e.g. Presentation, Matlab) are highly desired but not mandatory. Strong interests in the field of neuroimaging and aging research are valuable.

The Department of Systems Neuroscience (head: Prof. Christian Büchel) provides an excellent multi-disciplinary and highly interactive neuroimaging environment with its own physics, psychology and clinical neuroscience groups as well as a research dedicated 3T MR scanner, EEG- and eye-tracking laboratory. The institute is part of an international graduate school that offers a comprehensive program covering all areas of neuroscience and provides PhD students with an excellent research environment.

Candidates should submit a CV and brief statement of research interest by e-mail to Dr. Stefanie Brassen (sbrassen@uke.de). Applications will be considered until the position is filled.