Call for Applications to pursue a PhD in the field of Cognitive Neuroimaging

International Max Planck Research School on Cognitive NeuroImaging; Deutschland; Vor Ort; EUR 60.000 - 80.000; Vollzeit

Zusammenfassung

A leading research institute in cognitive neuroimaging invites excellent students to apply for a PhD program. The program offers an interdisciplinary approach, state-of-the-art facilities, and opportunities for research stays. Applicants should hold a relevant master’s degree and have research experience. Competitive funding of around €40,500 gross annually is provided. The position is based in Leipzig, Germany.

Qualifikationen

• Excellent master’s degree (or equivalent) needed from a recognized university.
• Research experience in cognitive neuroscience or related fields.
• Strong proficiency in English for communication.

Aufgaben

• Pursue a PhD in cognitive neuroimaging.
• Participate in structured 3-year doctoral program.
• Engage in hybrid teaching and Open Science education.

Kenntnisse

Research experience in a related area

Proficiency in oral and written English

Ausbildung

Master’s degree in relevant disciplines

Jobbeschreibung

Overview

The International Max Planck Research School on Cognitive NeuroImaging invites excellent students holding a master’s degree (or equivalent) to pursue a PhD in the field of Cognitive Neuroimaging. The IMPRS on Cognitive NeuroImaging covers the interdisciplinary and fast-paced fields of cognitive neuroscience, clinical and translational neuroscience, and neuroimaging. Partner institutions include the Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences (MPI CBS), Leipzig University (LU), TU Dresden (TUD), and University College London (UCL).

Application timeline

Deadline for applications: 02 November 2025. Virtual panel interviews: end of January 2026. Programme starts: October 2026.

What we offer

The IMPRS on Cognitive NeuroImaging aims to recruit international, motivated, curious, independent, self-organised and highly talented doctoral researchers who pursue a structured 3-year PhD in cognitive neuroimaging. The graduate school offers access to state-of-the-art cognitive and imaging neuroscience facilities and a very international, multidisciplinary environment, including:

• 7T MRI scanner
• Four 3T MRI scanners including a Connectom MRI scanner with ultra-strong gradients (one of only four worldwide)
• 306-channel MEG system
• Various TMS, TDCS, NIRS, and EEG systems

Qualifications and eligibility

• Excellent master’s degree (or equivalent) in disciplines such as cognitive neuroscience, computational neuroscience, translational neuroscience, psychology, medicine, neurobiology, computer science, biological engineering, medical engineering, mathematics, physics, neuroimaging, or related fields. The master’s degree should be awarded by an internationally recognised university. Applicants nearing the completion of their master’s degree may also apply.
• Research experience in a related area is essential for successful candidates.
• Proficiency in oral and written English (teaching and supervision language).
• Applicants with a bachelor’s degree may be admitted in exceptional cases (see website for details).

Programme structure and training

The doctoral programme is organized into three thematic modules: Cognitive Neuroscience, Clinical and Translational Neuroscience, and Development of Neuroimaging and Modelling Methods. The teaching programme includes hybrid teaching, flipped classroom activities, remote learning, and an emphasis on Open Science education. An individual development plan tailors training to each doctoral researcher’s background, with general introductory courses, project-specific advanced training, and a broad range of scientific and transferable skills courses.

PhD researchers may receive funding for research stays of up to three months at partner institutions.

Funding and diversity

Some doctoral researchers are funded through contracts based on the German TVöD, with remuneration around 65% of pay group 13 of TVöD (approximately €40,500 gross annually, before taxes and social insurance). If supervisor funding is unavailable, externally funded candidates may apply for support. Details about funding are on the project webpage. We are committed to equal opportunities and encourage applications from individuals of diverse genders, nationalities, ethnicities and social backgrounds, sexual orientations, and physical abilities, especially from underrepresented groups in science.

Location and application information

Leipzig is a historic, international city with rich cultural and recreational opportunities. For more information about the graduate school, visit imprs-coni.mpg.de. To submit your application, go to cbs.cloud.opencampus.net. For further information contact: [e-mail].

Contact address: IMPRS on Cognitive NeuroImaging, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Stephanstrasse 1A, 04103 Leipzig, Germany. Web: imprs-coni.mpg.de. Social media: @imprsconi.bsky.social. LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/imprs-on-cognitive-neuroimaging