PhD and Postdoctoral Positions in Rodent Social Neuroscience at University of Bern University of Bern in Switzerland

The research group of Professor Pegah Kassraian at the University of Bern, Switzerland, is recruiting for several fully funded positions in rodent social neuroscience, including a postdoctoral scientist, PhD student(s), and a laboratory technician. The lab, opening in April 2026 and funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) and the Faculty of Medicine, is part of the Department of Neurology and the Experimental Neurology Center (ZEN) at the University of Bern.

The group investigates the behavioral, neural, molecular, and circuit-level mechanisms of social cognition in rodents, with close links to clinical research. Experimental approaches include in vivo calcium and neurotransmitter imaging, optogenetic and chemogenetic techniques, circuit manipulation, and computational analysis of behavioral and neural data in controlled and semi-naturalistic environments. The lab offers a highly interdisciplinary and collaborative environment, with strong national and international connections and ample opportunities for career development.

For the postdoctoral position, candidates must have a PhD in Neuroscience, Medicine, Biology, Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, or a closely related field, with strong experimental and quantitative skills. The PhD position requires a Master’s degree in Neuroscience, Biomedical Sciences, Computer Science, Biology, Medicine, or a related discipline, with experience in rodent behavioral assays and programming/data analysis skills considered a plus. The laboratory technician role requires a Bachelor’s degree or higher in life sciences, experience in rodent experimental research, and relevant certifications.

All positions are fully funded, with the postdoctoral and technician roles offered as 2-year contracts (with possible extension) and the PhD position as a 4-year contract. The anticipated start date is August 2026 or by mutual agreement. Interested applicants should prepare their application materials and apply promptly. For more information, visit the provided links or contact the lab directly.