PhD research fellow/Researcher

Kjell Heuser; Oslo; On-site; NOK 520,000 - 640,000; Full time

Job summary

Oslo University Hospital invites applications for a Researcher or PhD fellow to join the AI-Driven Optogenetic Closed-Loop Seizure Control project. The role involves in vivo two-photon imaging, electrophysiology, and development of an AI seizure-detection algorithm to trigger optogenetic interventions in mice.

The position is based at GliaLab, University of Oslo, in Oslo, Norway, with collaboration across the neurology department and Oslo University Hospital.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in neuroscience, medicine, biology, biomedicine or related field
• Experience with in vivo rodent experiments
• Fluent English in both oral and written communication

Responsibilities

• Develop and test an AI-driven, closed-loop seizure-detection system
• Perform in vivo two-photon imaging and high-density electrophysiology in rodents
• Collaborate with GliaLab and University of Oslo researchers on project milestones

Skills

Fluent English

Communication skills

Problem solving

Multidisciplinary teamwork

Teaching abilities

Python

MATLAB

Two-photon microscopy

Neuropixels

In vivo electrophysiology

Education

Master's degree in neuroscience/biology/biomedicine

PhD in neuroscience/biology/biomedicine

Tools

Python

MATLAB

Two-photon imaging

Neuropixels

In vivo electrophysiology

Job description

Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital / GliaLab, University of Oslo Researcher and/or PhD position (fulltime).

Applications are invited for one position as Researcher ("Forsker") or PhD research fellow ("Stipendiat") in the project "AI-Driven Optogenetic Closed-Loop Seizure Control"- A 2-photon-imaging project, funded by Helse Sør-Øst (Project 340682).

The project extends our group's ongoing work on the preceding Helse Sør-Øst project (2024056, 2024-2026), and builds on our recent findings on cortical spreading depolarization (CSD) as a possible "brake" on epileptic seizures (Enger & Heuser, Front Netw Physiol 2024; Heuser et al., Cereb Cortex 2018), and on our established two-photon imaging methodology for studying astrocytic and vascular dynamics (Bojarskaite et al., Nat Commun 2023). The aim is to develop and test an AI-driven, closed-loop system that detects seizure activity in real time and triggers an optogenetic intervention (CSD or direct neuronal inhibition) with the goal of a novel, targeted treatment approach for epilepsy.

The project comprises:

• Two-photon imaging: In vivo two-photon imaging of astrocytes and neurons in awake, head-fixed mice through chronic cranial windows, building on our established methodology for studying cortical and hippocampal network activity.
• Consolidating the conditional Kir4.1 knockout hippocampal model combined with wireless EEG telemetry.
• High-density electrophysiology (Neuropixels 2.0) and miniaturized two-photon imaging (Mini2P) of astrocytes and neurons through chronic hippocampal windows, to test the role of CSD in seizure termination.
• Development of an AI-based seizure-detection algorithm driving automated, closed-loop optogenetic stimulation.

The successful candidate will be based at GliaLab, Letten Centre, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo (https://glialab.no), working in close collaboration with the Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital.

Oslo University Hospital is a workplace with great diversity. We believe this is essential to perform the tasks required. We pursue diversity among our job applicants and encourage everyone to apply regardless of who you are and what background you have.

Qualifications

Requirements if hired as PhD fellow (100% position):

• Completed Master's degree (or equivalent) in neuroscience, medicine, biology, biomedicine, or a related field
• Documented experience with in vivo rodent experimental work
• Highly motivated and accurate candidate
• Good problem-solving skills
• Ability to work both independently and as an integrated member of a multidisciplinary team
• Good communication skills and teaching abilities
• Fluent oral and written communication skills in English

Requirements if hired as Researcher (minimum 50% position):

• Completed PhD (or submitted thesis with imminent defense) in neuroscience, medicine, biology, biomedicine, or a related field
• Documented experience with in vivo rodent microsurgeries, as well as in vivo electrophysiology and/or imaging
• FELASA-equivalent certification in laboratory animal science (or willingness to obtain this) is required; documented prior hands-on animal experimental experience will be prioritized.
• Track record of first-author publication(s) in the field
• Ability to co-supervise PhD students/master students and contribute to project leadership
• Fluent oral and written communication skills in English

The following skills will be considered beneficial but are not obligatory:

• Experience with in vivo two-photon microscopy and/or high-density electrophysiology (e.g., Neuropixels)
• Experience with rodent seizure/epilepsy models
• Experience with optogenetics
• Programming skills (Python/MATLAB), especially relevant for machine-learning/AI seizure-detection work
• Knowledge of statistical methods, including regression models or machine learning
• Experience with viral vector-based conditional knockout strategies (Cre-lox)

Personal qualities

Personal qualities and team-working abilities will be an important part of the assessment.

We offer

• A workplace in the heart of Oslo, with rich opportunities for culture and outdoor activities
• A safe workplace with strong support from colleagues
• Excellent opportunities for professional and personal development
• Contribution to an important societal mission
• Training programs and courses, fostering the development of specialized skills
• Employment in an IA-certified company with pension scheme and insurance
• Salary in accordance with collective agreements for a Researcher/PhD position

Contacts

Kjell Heuser, Research group leader , 92414568, [e-mail]

Location

Sognsvannsveien 20
0372 Oslo

Key information:

Employer: Oslo universitetssykehus HF

Reference number: 5175630538

Percentage of full-time: 100%

Contract

Start date: 01/11/2026

End date: 31/10/2029

Application deadline: 15/10/2026