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Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology :
Cognitive Neurobiology
In order to fill a fixed-term position in full-time (39.83 hours/week = 100%;) at the earliest possible date, we are looking for a
The Department of Cognitive Neurobiology of Caspar Schwiedrzik at Ruhr-University Bochum is looking for an outstanding postdoc with expertise in computational cognitive neuroscience and/or deep learning to join our team to the neural basis of mental flexibility. The project investigates neural mechanisms of high-dimensional visual category learning, utilizing computational approaches as well as neuroimaging and neurophysiology in humans and macaque monkeys, respectively. It is funded by an ERC Consolidator Grant (Acronym DimLearn; “Flexible Dimensionality of Representational Spaces in Category Learning”). The postdoc’s project will focus on developing deep learning “digital twin” models based on neural and/or behavioral data to investigate flexible multi-task learning.
The lab seeks to understand the cortical basis and computational principles of perception and experience-dependent plasticity in the brain. To this end, we use a multimodal approach including fMRI-guided electrophysiological recordings in rodents and non-human primates, and fMRI and iEEG in humans. See https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cub.2023.01.011, https://doi.org/10.64898/2025.11.30.691163, and https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-51543-y, and https://doi.org/10.64898/2025.12.17.694881 for examples of our work. The postdoc will play a key role in our research efforts in this area. The lab is located at Ruhr-University Bochum (https://www.rub.de) and the German Primate Center (http://www.dpz.eu). At both locations, the lab is embedded into interdisciplinary research centers with international faculty and students pursuing cutting-edge research in cognitive and computational neuroscience. The employee will have access to dedicated computing infrastructure, including high performance computing clusters. The project will be conducted in close collaboration with the labs of Fabian Sinz (https://sinzlab.org), Alexander Gail (https://www.dpz.eu/sensomotorik), and Igor Kagan (http://igorkagan.org). The main site for this part of the project will be Bochum. Several relevant datasets already exist and will be available for analysis. Ruhr-University Bochum provides a vibrant and stimulating neuroscience community with a strong community in computational as well as experimental neurosciences. Through THINK – Center for Theoretical and Integrative Neuroscience and Cognitive Science (THINK) at Ruhr University Bochum (https://www.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/think/index.html.en), the postdoc will have access to dedicated computing infrastructure, including high-performance computing clusters, as well as to a state-of-the-art imaging center providing facilities for 3T MRI, EEG, virtual reality, and behavioral experimentation.
Scope: full-time
Duration: fixed-term, 3 years
Start: at the earliest possible date
Apply by: 2026-06-14
- Develop cutting-edge digital twin models for category learning from neural and behavioral data from humans and non-human primates, using RNNs
- Analyze model outputs to test theoretical frameworks about visual category learning
- Development of a toolbox for digital twin modelling
- Work closely with experimental team members in DimLearn to validate computational predictions
- Presentation and publication of results through conference contributions and per-reviewed scientific publications
- A PhD (or equivalent) in a relevant field (e.g., Computational Neuroscience, Computer Science, Cognitive Science, Machine Learning)
- Strong programming skills, particularly in Python and deep learning frameworks (PyTorch, TensorFlow, or similar)
- Knowledge of recurrent neural network models
- A passion for understanding the neural basis of visual perception and its plasticity
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills
- Fluency in spoken and written English (a good command of English is a requirement, but fluency in German is not essential. The working language in the group is English)
- Challenging and varied responsibilities with a high degree of autonomy
- Team-oriented collaboration within a dedicated, international, and supportive team
- A dynamic work environment
- An open and inclusive work atmosphere
- Fair and flexible working hours
The position is salaried and based on the collective agreement of the Länder (TV-L). If the personal and collective agreement requirements are met, the employee will receive pay grade E13 TV-L.
Further information can be found at (in German).
The place of work is Ruhr University Bochum.
If the position is funded by third-party funds the employee has no teaching obligation.
Interested candidates should submit their curriculum vitae, a description of their scientific interests (with a particular focus on the topic of the project), at least one representative publication, and the names and contact information of two references who are able to comment on your academic background and who agreed to be contacted.
RUB sees itself as a university with an international presence. The campus languages are German and English. Competence in at least one of the two languages and the willingness to learn the other are a prerequisite. RUB provides corresponding free courses for employees.
German language courses are offered by the University Language Center (ZFA) in the field of German as a Foreign Language (DaF). https://www.daf.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/daf/mitarbeitende/index.html.en
The Staff Council has the right to participate in all selection interviews. At the request of a candidate (m/f/x), it will ensure its participation in the entire procedure. Please contact [email protected].
The Ruhr-Universität Bochum is one of Germany’s leading research universities, addressing the whole range of academic disciplines. A highly dynamic setting enables researchers and students to work across the traditional boundaries of academic subjects and faculties. To create knowledge networks within and beyond the university is Ruhr-Universität Bochum’s declared aim.
The Ruhr-Universität Bochum stands for diversity and equal opportunities. For this reason, we favour a working environment composed of heterogeneous teams, and seek to promote the careers of individuals who are underrepresented in our respective professional areas. The Ruhr-Universität Bochum expressly requests job applications from women. In areas in which they are underrepresented they will be given preference in the case of equivalent qualifications with male candidates. Applications from individuals with disabilities are most welcome.
Prof. Dr. Caspar Schwiedrzik | Tel.: +49 234 32 15220
Travel costs, accommodation costs and loss of earnings or other application costs for job interviews can unfortunately not be reimbursed.
We look forward to receiving your application via our online application portal by 2026-06-14. Please make sure to mention the reference number ANR 5724.
RUHR-UNIVERSITÄT BOCHUM
44801 Bochum
Universitätsstraße 150
SOCIAL MEDIA
https://uni.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/de/stellenangebote
