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Forschungszentrum Jülich

PhD Position in Multi-Scale Comparisons of Concerted Activity and Causality in Cortical Neural Activity Forschungszentrum Jülich in Germany

Degree Level

PhD

Field of study

Computer Science

Funding

PhD position funded at pay group 13 (75%) of the TVöD-Bund, with an additional year-end bonus amounting to 75% of a monthly salary and capital-forming benefits. Fixed term of 3+1 years.

Deadline

Sep 30, 2026

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Country

Germany

University

Forschungszentrum Jülich

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Keywords

Computer Science
Data Science
Biology
Mathematics
Time Series Analysis
Cognitive Neuroscience
Electrophysiology
Neuropsychology
Statistics
Physics

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About this position

PhD opportunity in computational neuroscience, data science, causal AI, and time-series analysis at Forschungszentrum Jülich in Germany, with a strong connection to RWTH Aachen University. The project is hosted at the Institute for Advanced Simulation – Computational and Systems Neuroscience (IAS-6) and is part of the Helmholtz School for Data Science in Life, Earth and Energy (HDS-LEE).

The research focuses on multi-scale comparisons of patterns of concerted activity and causality in cortical neural activity. The successful candidate will analyze multi-scale electrophysiological data, build stochastic and deterministic simulations, extend theoretical frameworks, and develop methods linking functional connectivity from neuronal spike activity to mesoscopic cortical dynamics. The work sits at the interface of neuroscience, computational modeling, and causal discovery for complex time-series data.

Supervision and collaboration involve Prof. Sonja Grün (Statistical Neuroscience group, Forschungszentrum Jülich), Dr. Michael Denker (IAS-6, Forschungszentrum Jülich), and co-supervision by Prof. Adèle Helena Ribeiro (Institute for Causal and Explainable AI in Life Sciences, RWTH Aachen University). The environment is highly international and interdisciplinary, with opportunities for scientific mentoring, conferences, software development, reproducible science, and graduate training through HDS-LEE.

Eligibility highlights: Master’s degree in physics, mathematics, computer science, or a related field; programming skills in Python/C++ or similar; strong analytical and organizational skills; English proficiency at B2 level or higher; neuroscience experience is helpful but not required.

Funding: TVöD-Bund pay group 13 at 75%, plus year-end bonus and capital-forming benefits. The position is fixed term for 3+1 years.

Location: Jülich, Germany. Deadline: 2026-09-30 (or until filled).

Funding details

PhD position funded at pay group 13 (75%) of the TVöD-Bund, with an additional year-end bonus amounting to 75% of a monthly salary and capital-forming benefits. Fixed term of 3+1 years.

What's required

A Master's degree with a strong academic background in physics, mathematics, computer science, or a related field is required. Applicants should have proficiency in at least one programming language such as Python or C++, good analytical skills, sound understanding of data evaluation, good organisational skills, and the ability to work systematically, independently, and collaboratively. Experience in neuroscience is an advantage. Effective communication skills and motivation for academic development are expected. Working proficiency in English at least B2 level according to CEFR is required, ideally supported by a certificate; knowledge of German is beneficial. Bachelor’s and master’s transcripts and two reference letters are requested.

How to apply

Apply through the Forschungszentrum Jülich recruiting portal using the provided job posting link. Prepare your transcripts and two reference letters, and submit your application before the position is filled. Check the additional job details page for full instructions.

More information can be found here

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