Job announcement
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Humboldt University Berlin, Institute for Theoretical Biology / Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience

application deadline: not specified
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Postdoc and PhD position in an interdisciplinary project (signal processing in the grasshopper auditory system)

The labs of behavioral physiology (Prof. Ronacher) and computational neurophysiology (Dr. Schreiber) at Humboldt University Berlin (Germany) are looking for highly motivated individuals for a PhD and a postdoctoral position in a joint experimental-modeling project. Our groups are part of the Institute for Theoretical Biology as well as the Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience Berlin.

Research in the project is focussed on the sensory processing of acoustic communication signals in insects, its neurophysiological basis, and potential evolutionary constraints. We specifically aim to understand how auditory object classification can be reliably performed by a size-constrained neuronal network under adverse environmental conditions. Candidates will hence be involved in exploring the neurophysiological mechanisms of information transfer, tightly linking electrophysiological, behavioral, and theoretical approaches. One position will cover the experimental aspects, the other the modeling aspects of the project.

The positions will be filled depending on the prior experience of the candidates. We therefore encourage both experimentally-oriented and theoretically-oriented candidates to apply for either the PhD or the postdoctoral position.

Applicants are expected to be creative and capable of independent analytical thinking. A strong background in biology/physiology and/or math/physics/engineering or a related field is required. Postdoctoral candidates should have solid experience in electrophysiological and advanced data evaluation techniques or, alternatively, in modeling of neural systems. A strong interest in neurobiological questions and sensory ecology is a prerequisite for both positions.

The labs being located in the center of Berlin, candidates will be integrated in an exciting research environment with the opportunity to interact with various neuroscientific groups at the Bernstein Center and the three Berlin universities. PhD students have the option to enroll and actively participate in the International PhD program in Computational Neuroscience at the Bernstein Center Berlin.

Applications should include a CV, a brief statement of research experience and interests, publication list and names of at least two referees. Please, send your application electronically as a single .pdf file to Bernhard Ronacher (bernhard.ronacher@rz.hu-berlin.de).