PhD Position in Neuromorphic Computing and Analog Signal Processing (MINDnet, EU Doctoral Network) Research Center Jülich in Germany

This PhD position is part of the EU-funded Doctoral Network project MINDnet, which brings together 15 PhD students across 7 universities, one research center, and two companies from eight EU countries. The overarching theme of the network is neuromorphic computing and analog signal processing, with applications in communication, sensing, geo-localization, space, and biomedical fields. The successful candidate will be based at the PGI-14 Research Center Jülich in Aachen, Germany, and will join the 'Computing in Dynamical Systems' group.

The project focuses on developing, verifying, and benchmarking learning rules in networks of complex spiking neuron models, specifically targeting geolocalization applications. Key responsibilities include building simulation models for neuron networks, analyzing dynamical states with respect to network topology and neuron parameters, developing learning rules that account for strong non-linearities, identifying and optimizing application tasks in geolocation, and designing experimental systems for circuit-level measurements and data analysis.

Applicants should have a Master's degree in electrical/electronic engineering, computer engineering, computer science, physics, or a related field. Essential skills include coursework in algorithms, computational complexity theory, information theory, and experience with spiking neural networks and statistics. A strong background in electronics, including simulation and analysis of analog, digital, or mixed-signal circuits (using SPICE, LTspice, Cadence, MATLAB, Python), is required. Excellent communication skills, teamwork, and proficiency in English are essential. Due to Marie Skłodowska-Curie mobility rules, candidates must not have resided or worked in Germany for more than 12 months in the 36 months prior to recruitment.

The position offers a highly interdisciplinary and international research environment, with secondments of 3 months each at Albira Tech SL (Spain), Technical University Graz (Austria), and University of Trento (Italy). Regular meetings, training schools, and workshops with the other PhD students in the network are included. The contract is for 3 years, classified under pay group 13 (75%) of the TVöD-Bund, with a special Christmas bonus, 30 days annual leave, flexible working hours, and support for international employees. The project is funded by the EU Marie Skłodowska-Curie program.

Applications from diverse backgrounds are encouraged. The start date for the grant is January 1, 2026, with preferred employment between May and September 2026. For more information and to apply, visit the official job posting link.