PhD Position on ‘The Neurocognitive Mechanisms of Repetitive Negative Thoughts’ ETH Zürich in Switzerland

The Neural Control of Movement Lab (Prof. Dr. Nicole Wenderoth) and Brain-Body Regulation Lab (Prof. Dr. Sarah Meissner) at ETH Zürich’s Department of Health Sciences and Technology (D-HEST) invite applications for a fully funded PhD position focused on the neurocognitive mechanisms of repetitive negative thoughts (RNT). This interdisciplinary project sits at the intersection of neuroscience, psychology, and biomedical engineering, leveraging state-of-the-art neuroimaging, biofeedback, and computational modeling to advance understanding of maladaptive thought patterns central to depression and anxiety.

The NCM Lab investigates how the brain controls behavior and develops non-invasive interfaces to modulate brain function during wake and sleep. The BBR Lab explores mechanisms underpinning brain arousal and its interaction with bodily systems. Both labs are committed to translating fundamental neuroscience insights into clinical and consumer applications, and are part of D-HEST, a department uniting researchers across neuroscience, biomedical engineering, movement science, nutrition, and medicine.

The project aims to test the hypothesis that RNT arises from reduced sensitivity to environmental change, manifesting as impaired adaptation of learning to environmental volatility, driven by abnormal noradrenergic signaling. In close collaboration with the University of Oxford, the research combines computational modeling of human behavior with pupillometry and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI).

The successful candidate will design and conduct human experiments that modulate noradrenergic activity using a pupil-based self-regulation approach developed in the lab, while measuring RNT, behavior, and brain activity using fMRI. Responsibilities include designing experimental paradigms, acquiring multimodal data (pupillometry, behavioral, fMRI), integrating real-time pupil-based self-regulation into adaptive learning tasks (Python/MATLAB), applying computational models, analyzing high-dimensional datasets, and publishing in leading journals.

Applicants should hold or be near completion of a Master’s degree in human neuroscience, neurophysiology, experimental psychology, biomedical engineering, health sciences and technology, or a related field. Required skills include experience with human participant data collection, strong programming (MATLAB, Python), computational approaches, electrophysiological and/or fMRI data analysis, experimental design, statistical analysis, scientific writing, independence, initiative, problem-solving, and excellent communication. Fluency in English is required; German is a plus.

ETH Zürich offers a world-class scientific and social environment, with a strong commitment to diversity, equality, and sustainability. The PhD position is fully funded for approximately four years, including tuition and stipend. The department is located in Zurich, Switzerland, providing access to leading industry partners and a vibrant academic community.

To apply, submit your application online via the ETH Zurich portal, including CV, motivation statement, diplomas, and contact details for at least two references. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered. For questions (not applications), contact Dr. Weronika Potok-Szybińska or Prof. Nicole Wenderoth. For further information about the Neural Control of Movement Lab, visit the lab website.

ETH Zurich is renowned for its excellence in education, fundamental research, and knowledge transfer, fostering independent thinking and inspiring excellence among its diverse community.