The Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology (LIN) in Magdeburg, Germany, is a leading center for neuroscientific research, specializing in the study of learning and memory across all levels of brain organization—from molecular and cellular mechanisms to complex neuronal networks and behavior. The Functional Architecture of Memory (FAM) research group, led by Prof. Dr. Magdalena Sauvage, is offering a fully funded PhD position focused on the neural basis of memory, in association with the SFB 1436 'Neural Resources of Cognition' collaborative research center.

This three-year PhD project investigates the circuit-specific mechanisms underlying spatial and non-spatial memory, with a particular emphasis on entorhino-hippocampal subnetworks. The research will employ advanced techniques such as optogenetic manipulations, immediate-early gene (IEG) imaging via in-situ hybridization, and in-vivo electrophysiology data analysis in mice. The project is closely linked to parallel studies involving in-vivo electrophysiology in humans and high-resolution fMRI in awake rats, providing a multidisciplinary and interspecies research environment.

The FAM group has made significant contributions to understanding memory networks, including the identification of spatial and non-spatial subnetworks along the hippocampal proximodistal axis, and the characterization of network shifts between the Trisynaptic loop and Temporoamonic pathways during memory retrieval. The department also studies memory consolidation, reconsolidation, and the roles of various medial temporal lobe areas (CA1, CA3, DG, MEC, LEC, PrC, POR) in health, aging, and animal models of amnesia.

LIN offers state-of-the-art facilities, including high-resolution imaging (two-photon microscopy, 3–9.4 Tesla fMRI) for both human and animal research, and a vibrant, multidisciplinary scientific community. The successful candidate will benefit from extensive support through the graduate school (IRTG) and will collaborate with national and international partners such as the German Centre for Neurodegenerative Diseases and renowned research groups in Europe and the USA.

Applicants should hold an MSc in Neurosciences, Life Sciences, or related fields, and have experience in behavioral and molecular techniques, as well as programming skills in Matlab and/or Python. A willingness to work with animal models and an interest in interdisciplinary and interspecies studies are essential. The working language of the lab is English.

The position is funded at TV-L E13 (65% part-time, 26 hours/week) for three years, with welfare benefits according to the Collective Agreement for Public Service in the Federal States. The institute is committed to equal opportunities and welcomes applications from all backgrounds. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

To apply, submit a motivation letter, CV, copies of relevant certificates, a publication list, and contact information for three references to the provided email address. For further information, contact Prof. Dr. Magdalena Sauvage. For details on the graduate school, visit https://sfb1436.de/de/graduate-school/. The official job posting is available at Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology Careers.