A four-year PhD fellowship in Systems Neuroscience is available in the laboratory of Professor Koen Vervaeke at the Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo. This position offers a unique opportunity to investigate the mechanisms by which the hippocampus forms spatial memories and how these processes are influenced by addictive substances. The research will employ state-of-the-art in vivo two-photon imaging and electrophysiology to record neuronal activity in rodents during behavioral tasks, as well as optogenetics to manipulate neural circuits.

The Vervaeke lab is internationally recognized for its work on neural circuits and the contribution of specific cell types to behavior. The project is designed for candidates with a strong interest in systems neuroscience, microscopy, and interdisciplinary approaches. You will join a diverse and supportive team, working in an environment that values scientific curiosity, inclusion, and career development. The position is a fixed-term appointment for four years, with 25% of the time dedicated to career-building activities.

Applicants must have a Master’s degree (120 ECTS) in neuroscience, biology, medicine, computer science, physics, engineering, or closely related fields, with a minimum grade B (ECTS grading scale) and a thesis of at least 30 ECTS. Experience with animal surgery is advantageous, and candidates must be comfortable working with rodents. A broad interest in scientific disciplines, a tinkerer’s mindset, and familiarity with electricity/electronics, chemistry, and optics are required. Programming skills (Python/Matlab) and image analysis experience are highly recommended. Excellent command of written and spoken English is mandatory. Basic experience in electrophysiology, microscopy, optogenetics, or computational neuroscience is desirable. All documentation must be in English or a Scandinavian language.

The University of Oslo is Norway’s oldest and highest ranked educational and research institution, with a strong commitment to equality, inclusion, and diversity. The Institute of Basic Medical Sciences promotes fundamental medical knowledge to understand normal processes, mechanisms causing illness, and good health. The university offers excellent welfare schemes, career development opportunities, and membership in Statens Pensjonskasse, one of Norway's best pension schemes.

The salary for the Doctoral Research Fellow position ranges from NOK 550,800 to 600,000 per year, depending on competence and experience, with 2% deducted for statutory contributions to the State Pension Fund. Additional benefits include exercise time during working hours and access to beneficial mortgages and insurance schemes.

To apply, submit your application via the Jobbnorge recruitment system, including an application letter, CV, complete list of publications, transcripts and certificates, and contact information for 2-3 references. Retrieve your education results from Vitnemålsportalen.no or upload transcripts if not available. The application deadline is 23rd March 2026.

For further information, contact Professor Koen Vervaeke at [email protected]. More details about the university’s equality and diversity initiatives can be found at uio.no. The Institute is located in Domus Medica, Oslo.