The University of Oslo invites applications for a three-year PhD fellowship in Neuroscience, focusing on the role of striatal interneurons in action selection. The position is based in the Dorst Lab, led by Dr. Matthijs Dorst, with co-supervision from Associate Professor Koen Vervaeke. The lab is part of the Division of Physiology at the Institute of Basic Medical Sciences (IMB), offering a vibrant research environment and access to state-of-the-art facilities.

This project, funded by the National Research Council of Norway, aims to unravel how interneuron activity in the basal ganglia influences decision making. The successful candidate will employ a multidisciplinary approach, combining in vivo voltage imaging, behavioral assays, optogenetic and chemogenetic manipulations, and ex vivo patch-clamp electrophysiology. The research involves training mice in decision-making tasks, performing microsurgeries to gain optical access to the striatum, recording neural activity, and analyzing data using Matlab and other tools.

The candidate will be responsible for designing and conducting experiments, analyzing complex datasets, and presenting findings at national and international conferences. The project offers opportunities to develop advanced skills in neuroscience research, animal behavior, and data analysis, and to collaborate with leading scientists in the field.

Applicants should hold a Master’s degree or equivalent in medical sciences, neuroscience, biology, or a related discipline. Experience with animal models, behavioral neuroscience, electrophysiology, or imaging techniques is highly desirable. Strong analytical skills and proficiency in programming (e.g., Matlab) are preferred. The ability to perform microsurgeries in mice and train animals in behavioral tasks is essential. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in English and a commitment to high-quality research.

The fellowship is fully funded for three years, covering salary and research expenses. The position is available from 1 March 2026. For further information, visit the Dorst Lab and Vervaeke Lab websites or contact Dr. Matthijs Dorst at [email protected]. Detailed application instructions and position information are available on the JobbNorge portal. The application deadline is 27 February 2026.

Join a dynamic research group at the University of Oslo and contribute to cutting-edge neuroscience research on decision making and neural circuits. This is an excellent opportunity for motivated candidates seeking to advance their academic and research careers in neuroscience.