PhD Position: Optical Imaging and 3D Tracking of Neural Coding of Body Posture in Rodents

The Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) is offering a fully funded PhD position focused on combining optical imaging with 3D tracking to map the neural coding of body posture in rodents. This interdisciplinary project leverages cutting-edge miniature two-photon microscopes (MINI-2P) to perform pioneering research on the cellular basis of posture coding in the neocortex. The successful candidate will conduct neural recordings in laboratory settings while tracking multiple aspects of rodent behavior, requiring both technical skill and a strong motivation for analyzing large neural and behavioral datasets. The position is a collaboration between the research groups of Associate Professor Weijian Zong and Professor Jonathan Whitlock at the Kavli Institute. The Whitlock lab specializes in quantitative approaches to naturalistic animal behavior and has pioneered platforms for single-unit recordings in freely moving rats with 3D motion capture, leading to discoveries about neural encoding of body posture across various cortical regions. The Zong lab focuses on developing advanced optical tools for monitoring and manipulating neural activity in naturally behaving animals, with the MINI-2P technology enabling multiplane imaging of thousands of neurons in freely moving mice. Both supervisors are supported by major grants and are part of internationally recognized research initiatives, including the Centre for Algorithms in the Cortex and the Norwegian Brain Initiative. The Kavli Institute offers a dynamic, collaborative, and diverse research environment, with access to state-of-the-art facilities and international networks. The PhD candidate will be expected to complete doctoral education, conduct high-quality research, publish academic and popular science work, participate in research group activities, and engage in international conferences or research stays. Applicants must hold a relevant Master’s degree (or be close to completion), have a strong academic record (B or better), and possess excellent English communication skills. Experience with scientific programming and data analysis is required, and prior experience with animal experiments, neural imaging, and molecular neuroscience techniques is preferred. The position offers a gross annual salary of NOK 550,800, favorable pension terms, working capital, and access to employee benefits. The employment period is four years, and candidates must gain admission to the PhD programme in medicine within three months of starting. NTNU values diversity and encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds. The application deadline is November 24, 2025. For more information about the project, institute, and application process, visit the provided links.