PhD position; m​/f​/d in Systems Neuroscience

The research groups of Prof. Tobias Ackels at the University Hospital Bonn and Dr. Oliver Barnstedt at the European Neuroscience Institute Göttingen invite applications for a position as PhD candidate (m/f/d) to join a collaborative DFG-funded research project for three years (TV-L E13/65%), with possible extension, starting from April 2026.

The successful candidate will be embedded in a joint research effort between the labs of Prof. Tobias Ackels (Bonn) and Dr. Oliver Barnstedt (Göttingen). The project investigates how the hippocampus, particularly the CA1 region, integrates olfactory and spatial signals to support goal-directed navigation. Using dual-colour miniscope calcium imaging and advanced behavioural assays in freely moving mice, the project aims to dissect the dynamics and circuit mechanisms underlying conjunctive coding of multisensory information and their causal contributions to adaptive behaviour.

• Active participation in experimental design, execution, and analysis of hippocampal calcium imaging and behavioural studies
• Implementation of optogenetic manipulations and multisensory behavioural tasks
• Quantitative analysis of neural data, including information-theoretic decoding and trajectory mapping
• Coordination between collaborating labs (Bonn, Göttingen) and regular participation in project meetings
• Presentation of findings at national and international conferences; preparation of manuscripts for publication

• Master’s degree in neuroscience, biology, physics, engineering, or a related field
• Motivated, team-oriented, and flexible mindset driven by curiosity and ambition
• Experience with in vivo neuroscience methods (imaging, electrophysiology) and mouse behavioural experiments is highly desirable
• Strong quantitative skills; competency in Python, MATLAB, or similar platforms required
• Interest in multisensory integration, spatial navigation, and sensory circuits
• Excellent communication skills in English; willingness to work in an interdisciplinary and international environment

• Direct involvement in leading-edge research on neural coding and memory
• Hands-on training in imaging, optogenetics, behavior, and computational analysis
• Dual supervision and mentoring by two PIs with complementary expertise
• A vibrant, international, and collaborative research environment spanning two top-tier neuroscience institutes
• Affiliation with the Bonn International Graduate School of Neuroscience (BIGS)
• Salary and benefits according to German TV-L (EG 13, 65%), pension plan (VBL), subsidized public transport, and on-campus childcare options

Applicants should send their application in a single pdf file (max. 5 MB), including

• Cover letter outlining research interests and motivation
• Curriculum vitae
• Contact information for two academic references

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Informal inquiries are welcome. Please send your application to Prof. Tobias Ackels via email ().

Final date to receive applications: 31.01.2026

For further information, please visit our lab websites or contact us directly.

Prof. Dr. Tobias Ackels
Sensory Dynamics and Behaviour
Institute of Experimental Epilepsy and Cognition Research
Universitätsklinikum Bonn
Venusberg-Campus 1
53127 Bonn

Website:

Address: Venusberg-Campus 1

IEECR - Sensory Dynamics and Behaviour lab