PhD position in biological foundations of neural control

Job title:

PhD position in biological foundations of neural control

Company:

Maastricht University

Job description

Maastricht University and Radboud University Nijmegen are jointly starting a research program on neural control to understand and restore brain function. In this project we aim to understand the neurobiological foundations of sensory control, and how the brain controls its own sensory processes in order to determine our perception and behavior. To this end, we will use neuroimaging techniques (ultra-high-field) fMRI, MEG and their combination with brain modulation approaches such as functional ultrasound.Job Description
We are looking for a motivated PhD student to join an interdisciplinary project investigating the biological underpinnings of perceptual decisions. The successful candidate will develop, conduct, analyse and interpret neuroimaging and behavioural experiments. In addition the candidate is expected to translate fundamental insights to the development of approaches for the modulation of perceptual behaviour by using brain stimulation techniques such as functional ultrasound. We also expect willingness to collaborate with other groups of the neural control initiative, for example in other neuromodulation techniques, invasive recordings and/or artificial intelligence. Specific responsibilities will include:

• Designing and conducting ultra-high-field MRI and magneto/electrophysiology experiments;
• Analyzing MRI, fMRI, and electrophysiological data using advanced computational tools;
• Applying computational modeling approaches to understand brain and behavioral data;
• Collaborating within an international and interdisciplinary team;
• Presenting findings at scientific conferences and publishing in peer-reviewed journals;
• Teaching in neuroscience education at Maastricht University (~0.1 fte).

Requirements
We are looking for a highly motivated individual who can work collaboratively within an interdisciplinary team. You should be organized, proactive, and be comfortable handling complex datasets and technical challenges.

• A master’s degree in cognitive neuroscience, computational neuroscience, systems biology, biomedical engineering, or a related field;
• Experience with behavioral studies and functional MRI and/or electrophysiology data collection and analysis and/or computational modeling of brain/behavior;
• Proficiency in the English language;
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills;
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, MATLAB, or R is a plus.

What we offer
As PhD position in biological foundations of neural control at Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, you will be employed by the most international university in the Netherlands, located in the beautiful city of Maastricht. In addition, we offer you:

• Good employment conditions. The position is graded in scale P according to UFO profile PhD, with corresponding salary based on experience ranging from €2901,00 and €3707,00 gross per month (based on a full-time employment of 38 hours per week). In addition to the monthly salary, an 8.0% holiday allowance and an 8.3% year-end bonus apply.
• An employment contract for a period of 12 months with a scope of 1,0 FTE. Upon a positive evaluation, an extension of 3 years will follow.
• At Maastricht University, the well-being of our employees is of utmost importance, we offer flexible working hours and the possibility to work partly from home if the nature of your position allows it. You will receive a monthly commuting and internet allowance for this. If you work full-time, you will be entitled to 29 vacation days and 4 additional public holidays per year, namely carnival Monday, carnival Tuesday, Good Friday, and Liberation Day. If you choose to accumulate compensation hours, an additional 12 days will be added. Furthermore, you can personalize your employment conditions through a collective labor agreement (CAO) choice model.
• As Maastricht University, we offer various other excellent secondary employment conditions. These include a good pension scheme with the ABP and the opportunity for UM employees to participate in company fitness and make use of the extensive sports facilities that we also offer to our students.
• Last but certainly not least, we provide the space and facilities for your personal and professional development. We facilitate this by offering a wide range of training programs and supporting various well-established initiatives such as ‘acknowledge and appreciate’.

The terms of employment at Maastricht University are largely set out in the collective labor agreement of Dutch Universities. In addition, local provisions specific to UM apply. For more information, .Maastricht University
Why work at Maastricht University?
At Maastricht University (UM), everything revolves around the future. The future of our students, as we work to equip them with a solid, broad-based foundation for the rest of their lives. And the future of society, as we seek solutions through our research to issues from all around the world. Our six faculties combined provide a comprehensive package of study programmes and research.In our teaching, we use the Problem-Based Learning (PBL) method. Students work in small groups, looking for solutions to problems themselves. By discussing issues and working together to draw conclusions, formulate answers and present them to their peers, students develop essential skills for their future careers.With over 22,300 students and more than 5,000 employees from all over the world, UM is home to a vibrant and inspiring international community.Are you drawn to an international setting focused on education, science and scholarship? Are you keen to contribute however your skills and qualities allow? Our door is open to you! As a young European university, we value your talent and look forward to creating the future together.for more information about UM.Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience
The Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience (FPN) is an international faculty with students and staff from various cultural backgrounds, who are connected by their shared curiosity about human behaviour and our brains.This curiosity inspires us to explore the wide field of psychology from different perspectives (such as a biological and cognitive viewpoint). By using small-scale and student-centred methods, such as problem-based learning and project-based learning, we encourage a similar kind of curiosity in our students, as we provide them with the tools to discover the world of the human brain.Curious?
Are you interested in this exciting position but still have questions? Feel free to contact Professor Federico De Martino at for more information.Applying?
Or are you already convinced and ready to become our new PhD position in biological foundations of neural control? Apply now, no later than June 22, 2025, for this position.The first round of interviews will take place on July 1/5 and may be followed by a second round on July 9/13.Please upload your CV, motivation letter, grade list and contact information of 2 referees.A reference check will be part of the application procedure.The vacancy is open for internal and external candidates. In case of equal qualifications, internal candidates will be prioritized.Maastricht University is committed to promoting and nurturing a diverse and inclusive community. We believe that diversity in our staff and student population contributes to the quality of research and education at UM, and strive to enable this through inclusive policies and innovative projects led by teams of staff and students. We encourage you to apply for this position.Job Type: AcademicFaculty/Service Center: Faculty of Psychology and NeuroscienceClosing date: 22-06-2025FTE min: 1,0FTE max: 1,0Salary min: €2901,00Salary max: €3707,00ID job: 2140Job Type: AcademicFaculty/Service Center: Faculty of Psychology and NeuroscienceClosing date: 22-06-2025FTE min: 1,0FTE max: 1,0Salary min: €2901,00Salary max: €3707,00ID job: 2140

Expected salary

€2901 per month

Location

Maastricht, Limburg

Job date

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 06:43:09 GMT

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