PhD and Post-doc Positions in Theoretical Neuroscience, Max Planck Institute, Leipzig, Germany

PhD student and post-doc positions available in the group ‘Modelling of dynamic perception and action‘ at the Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences (MPI-CBS), in Leipzig, Germany.

The goal of the group is to develop models for brain mechanisms of human perception and action using dynamic systems theory and Bayesian recognition algorithms. Current projects focus on communication and dynamic decision making in simulated agents. An emphasis will be placed on linking the theoretical work to experimental findings based on neuroimaging data. The candidates will be encouraged to actively contribute with their own ideas and proposals.
The research will be conducted at the MPI-CBS in Leipzig, Germany, an internationally leading centre for cognitive and imaging neuroscience. For theoretical work, the institute is equipped with high-performance computing facilities. For experimental work, the institute is equipped with a 7.0 T MRI scanner, two 3.0 MRI scanners, a 306 channels MEG system, a TMS and several EEG systems. All facilities are supported by experienced IT and physics staff.
The projects are partly in collaboration with the Mind and Brain Institute in Berlin, Germany, and the Wellcome Trust Centre for Neuroimaging in London, UK.
PhD positions:
The candidates must have a master degree (or equivalent) in physics, computer science, engineering, computational neuroscience, or a related field. A skill in programming matlab is desirable. PhD students will have the opportunity to participate in an International Max-Planck Research School.
Post-doc positions:
The candidates must have a PhD (or equivalent) in neuroscience, physics, or a related field. Essential skills comprise matlab programming expertise and prior experience in some aspect of computational neuroscience or modelling neuroimaging data. Prior experience in dynamic systems theory or Bayesian statistics is desirable.
Starting date for all positions is flexible. Salary is dependent on experience and based on MPI stipends or equivalent salary according to German Public service regulations.
We seek to increase the number of women in those areas where they are under-represented and therefore explicitly encourage women to apply. We are committed to employing more handicapped individuals and especially encourage them to apply.
The closing date for applications is 31st March 2009 but interested candidates are encouraged to get in touch at their earliest convenience.
For questions or an informal discussion about these posts please contact Dr. Stefan Kiebel (kiebel(at)cbs(dot)mpg(dot)de
Please include the following documents in your application: Curriculum Vitae, names and contact details of two personal references, a description of your personal qualifications, future research interests and academic goals.
Applications citing the code number ‘MPA’ should be sent to: personal(at)cbs(dot)mpg(dot)de or via post to:
Max-Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences
-Administration-
Stephanstrasse 1A, 04103 Leipzig, Germany