A PhD fellowship is available in the laboratory of Professor Koen Vervaeke at the Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo. This four-year fixed-term position offers a unique opportunity to join a vibrant international research environment focused on systems neuroscience. The project investigates the mechanisms by which the hippocampus forms spatial memories and how these processes are influenced by addictive substances. You will employ state-of-the-art in vivo two-photon imaging and electrophysiology to record neuronal activity in rodents performing behavioral tasks, and use optogenetics to manipulate neural activity. The lab is dedicated to uncovering the contributions of specific cell types to behavior and neural circuit function.

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 aims to advance fundamental medical knowledge, understand normal and pathological processes, and promote good health. The institute is responsible for teaching in basic medical sciences for medicine and clinical nutrition programs and hosts more than 300 employees in Domus Medica.

Applicants should hold 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. You must be comfortable working with rodents and performing delicate surgical procedures; previous experience with animal surgery is an advantage. Candidates should have broad scientific interests, a tinkerer’s mindset, and familiarity with electricity/electronics, chemistry, and optics, as you will work with advanced custom instrumentation. Experience with programming (Python/Matlab) and image analysis is highly recommended. Excellent command of written and spoken English is required. Basic experience in electrophysiology, microscopy, optogenetics, or computational neuroscience is desirable. All documentation must be in English or a Scandinavian language.

The position offers a competitive salary as Doctoral Research Fellow (position code 1017), ranging from NOK 550,800 to 600,000 per year, depending on competence and experience. Membership in Statens Pensjonskasse provides beneficial mortgages and insurance schemes. The University of Oslo offers good welfare schemes, committed colleagues, and opportunities for development and career advancement. Up to 1.5 hours per week of exercise during working hours is available.

To apply, submit your application via the Jobbnorge recruitment system, including an application letter, CV, complete list of publications, project description, 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. The best qualified candidates will be invited for interviews. Applicant lists may be published in accordance with Norwegian Freedom of Information Act § 25, but you may request exemption from publication. For further information, contact Professor Koen Vervaeke at [email protected].

This position is ideal for candidates with strong scientific curiosity and motivation for research, who enjoy working in an international team and tackling the mysteries of the brain. The University of Oslo strives to accommodate diverse needs and encourages applicants from all backgrounds. Join us in contributing to knowledge development, education, and societal advancement through cutting-edge neuroscience research.