Postdoc (m/f/d) – Junior Research Group of Gut-Brain Interactions German Institute of Human Nutrition in Germany

The German Institute of Human Nutrition (DIfE) in Potsdam-Rehbrücke, Germany, invites applications for a Postdoc (m/f/d) in the Junior Research Group of Gut-Brain Interactions. DIfE is a Leibniz Association institute focused on experimental and clinical research in nutrition and health, with the broader goal of understanding the molecular basis of nutrition-dependent diseases and developing prevention and treatment strategies.

The position starts on 1 May 2027 and is centered on the neural dynamics of stomach–brain coupling in healthy individuals. The project combines electrogastrography (EGG) with EEG, fMRI, and peripheral physiology to study how stomach-derived signals interact with brain systems involved in arousal, attention, vigilance, cognition, and behaviour. A key research question is whether experimentally induced changes in arousal alter gastric–brain coupling independently of changes in gastric activity.

The postdoc will lead electrophysiological and multimodal analyses, contribute to experiments involving pharmacological and physiological manipulations, and have scope to develop an independent research line within the programme. This makes the role especially attractive for candidates interested in interdisciplinary research at the interface of neuroscience, physiology, and human experimental methods.

Applicants should have an excellent Master degree and doctoral degree in Psychology, Cognitive Neuroscience, or Biology. Strong experience in electrophysiology (EEG, MEG, intracranial EEG) and/or neuroimaging (fMRI analysis, SPM, FSL) is required, along with solid skills in statistics, signal processing, and Python/Matlab. Experience with physiological data such as EGG, ECG, respiration, or pupil measurements, or with psychophysics, is an advantage. High motivation for interdisciplinary collaboration and proficiency in English are essential.

The appointment is advertised for one year with the option of extension. The post includes remuneration according to TV-L level 13, plus annual special payment and a company pension scheme. Additional benefits include family-friendly working conditions, a job ticket for public transport, free parking, 30 days of vacation, and access to the Corporate Benefits programme. DIfE also notes its commitment to equal opportunities and preferential consideration for applicants with severe disabilities if qualifications are equal.

Applications should be submitted as a single PDF file including a cover letter explaining motivation, CV, copies of degrees/certificates, and references. Use reference number 2026_W11_L and send the application by email to [email protected] no later than 30 November 2026. Informal enquiries can be directed to Dr. Ignacio Rebollo, Head of the Junior Research Group Gut-Brain Interactions, at [email protected].