Frank Ohl

The Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology in Magdeburg, Germany, is offering two fully funded PhD student positions within the BMBF-funded collaborative project "AI-DISCO - Edge-Cloud AI for Distributed Sensing and Data Processing." The positions are based in the Systems Physiology of Learning research group led by Prof. Dr. Frank Ohl. The project aims to bridge the gap between biological neural networks and next-generation artificial intelligence models and hardware chips, focusing on neuromorphic architectures and bio-inspired networks to optimize and evaluate AI systems. Research topics include the analysis of energy-efficient neuroanatomical circuits, implementation of Spiking Neural Networks (SNNs) on specialized hardware, and development of neuroprosthetics with wireless communication and neuromorphic data compression. The project is highly interdisciplinary, involving both academic and industry partners, and offers a vibrant, international research environment with state-of-the-art infrastructure. Successful candidates will be employed full-time (40 hours per week) for an initial three-year fixed-term period, with the possibility of extension, and will receive a salary according to the TV-L E13 scale. The main workplace is Magdeburg, with regular visits to cooperation partners at the Lausitz Science Park in Cottbus. Flexible working hours and hybrid remote work models are available, accommodating living in the Berlin area. The PhD project is structured with clearly defined milestones and dedicated supervision, and tailored career development support is provided to prepare students for future roles in academia or industry. Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in Neuroscience, Computer Science, Engineering, Physics, or a related field, and demonstrate proficiency in at least one programming language. Legal eligibility requires EU citizenship or a valid residence/work permit for the EU. Desired skills include a strong interest in neuromorphic engineering and network theory, background in neurobiology or computational neuroscience, fluency in English (written and spoken), and the ability to structure and organize work. International degree holders must provide a certificate evaluation from the Central Office for Foreign Education (ZAB) or apply for one upon successful application. To apply, candidates should send a single PDF file containing a motivation letter, CV, and copies of relevant academic degrees, stating reference LIN 2026/07, to [email protected]. Review of applications begins May 25, 2026 and continues until the positions are filled. Incomplete applications or those not meeting requirements will not be considered. The Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology is committed to equal opportunities in employment and research, welcoming applications from all backgrounds. No application or interview expenses can be paid, and documents will be deleted after six months. For further information, visit Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology or the position announcement . Questions can be directed to [email protected].

The Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology (LIN) in Magdeburg, Germany, is recruiting three postdoctoral fellows for the Closed-loop AI-enabled Rehabilitative Engineering (CLAIRE) project. LIN is a non-university research institute focused on the neurobiological mechanisms of learning and memory, with strong research infrastructure and collaborations across neuroscience, engineering, and industry. The CLAIRE project develops novel adaptive neuroimplants at the intersection of biotechnology, digital technologies, and resource efficiency. The project emphasizes closed-loop technologies as a new approach to “rehabilitative engineering,” aiming to link the adaptability of biological systems with intelligent technical implants to support personalized digital health solutions. Research areas include hardware (neuromorphic, energy-efficient chips), software (AI-based neural signal analysis), and wetware (implementation of closed-loop rehabilitation in the brain). Potential application areas include future therapies for stroke, spinal cord injury, Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, hearing impairment, depression, and chronic pain. The positions are full-time, classified under TV-L E13 , and offered for an initial period of three years, with a maximum fixed term ending on 31 August 2029 . The expected start date is flexible and may begin as early as 1 September 2026 . Applicants should hold a Ph.D. in a relevant field such as computational neuroscience, biomedical engineering, electrical engineering/microelectronics, bioinformatics/AI, or biotechnology. Strong expertise in at least one of the project’s core areas is preferred: neuromorphic hardware and chip development, AI-based analysis of neural signals, or neurophysiological experiments related to learning, memory, and rehabilitation. The announcement also highlights the need for solid scientific data analysis skills and experience in writing and publishing scientific papers. To apply, candidates should submit a single PDF file containing a cover letter, full CV including publications, and transcripts of academic degrees. Recommendation letters are encouraged. Applications should reference LIN 2026/14 and be emailed to [email protected] . Review begins on 20 September 2026 and continues until the positions are filled. International degree holders should include a ZAB credential evaluation or be prepared to provide it if later requested. For questions about the positions, candidates may contact Prof. Dr. Frank Ohl or Prof. Dr. Janelle Pakan . The institute emphasizes equal opportunity, diversity, flexible working hours, and the option for alternating remote work.