The Ackels Lab at the University of Bonn is recruiting a postdoctoral researcher in systems neuroscience. The research focuses on understanding how the olfactory system performs stimulus selection and figure–background segregation under naturalistic, temporally complex odour conditions. The lab employs advanced in vivo physiology techniques, including Neuropixels recordings, 2-photon and miniscope imaging, and optogenetic/chemogenetic manipulations in both head-fixed and freely moving animal models. The project aims to dissect how olfactory bulb and cortical circuits encode and select foreground odours from complex backgrounds, addressing fundamental questions in sensory coding, active sensing, and predictive coding.

The successful candidate will join an interdisciplinary team and benefit from a cutting-edge research environment with strong links to computational neuroscience. The University of Bonn offers access to state-of-the-art platforms, close supervision, and opportunities for independent research directions and competitive fellowship applications. The position is fully funded for three years (TV-L E13, 100%) with supplementary benefits, public transport support, and access to on-campus daycare facilities. The lab welcomes applicants from all backgrounds and identities.

Applicants should have a PhD (or be near completion) in neuroscience, biology, physics, or engineering, with experience in in vivo physiology, systems neuroscience, and quantitative analysis. Programming skills (Python, Matlab, R) are essential. Experience with olfactory research, advanced data analysis, and custom-built equipment is advantageous. Fluency in English and strong communication skills are required. Applications should include a cover letter, CV, and contact information for two academic referees, sent as a single PDF to [email protected]. The application deadline is 28 February 2026, and applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. For more information, visit the Ackels lab website.