Research Associate (PhD Student) (f/m/x)

within the Translational Developmental Neuroscience Section. The line of research of the group focuses on the biological mechanisms that promote the development and maintenance of eating- and weight disorders as assessed by means of neuroimaging techniques (MRT) and other neurophysiological, neuropsychological and biochemical methods as well as ecological momentary assessment. Other projects carried on since 2010 include autism, affective disorders and schizophrenia. Importantly, our team places a strong emphasis on data science, utilizing machine learning techniques and computational models to interpret complex behavioral data and connect them to their neurobiological underpinnings. See http://www.uniklinikum-dresden.de/psm or www.transdenlab.de for more information.

This PhD position will commence as soon as possible for an initial period of up to three years, with potential extension opportunities. Compensation follows the collective agreement for the public service of the Länder (TV-L), with eligibility for salary group E13 TV-L (implemented as part-time employment) based on candidate qualifications.

Potential research projects within this role may explore cognitive and affective mechanisms underlying eating disorders. These investigations might utilize advanced methodologies such as digital phenotyping, eye tracking, functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), and analysis of endocrine and metabolic influences. For the current position most of these projects are part of collaborative worldwide efforts under the Eating Disorders Working Group (https://enigma.ini.usc.edu/ongoing/enigma-eating-disorders/) within the ENIGMA Consortium, where the principal investigator is a co-leader. Therefore, this position provides a unique opportunity for the selected candidate to participate in short-term stays abroad and collaborate with globally renowned experts in neuroimaging research, including the central ENIGMA team at University of Southern California. Additionally, the candidate will be involved not only in analyzing data but also in the coordination of the analysis of data from other participating sites within the ENIGMA consortium. Additional details about this initiative are available on the ENIGMA Consortium's website. Finally, the successful candidate will be involved in presenting the research results at international conferences and in publishing them in scientific journals.

Alongside research work, the selected candidate will participate in the instruction and supervision of interns and medical students within the project. The position offers the opportunity for further scientific training (doctorate) and Acquisition of medical psychological specialist knowledge as part of teaching in the course Human medicine.

Requirements:

• Master’s or Diploma degree in Psychology, Neuroscience, Biology, Biomedicine, Physics, Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science, or a closely related field
•  Knowledge of medium to advanced statistical methods (e.g. ANCOVA, GLM, LME) is a prerequisite
•  Knowledge of advanced data mining and modelling techniques (e.g. Machine Learning, Normative modeling) or strong motivation to acquire it
•  Basic knowledge of computer programming (e.g., Linux shell scripting, Python, R, or MATLAB) is required, with a willingness to further develop these skills
•  Previous experience in research activities within the past years is highly desirable (e.g. publications as first or co-author)
•  previous exposure to neurosciences/neurobiology and experience in the analysis of imaging data (e.g. FSL, SPM, FreeSurfer) is of advantage but not a precondition
•  Exceptional organizational and communication skills • Very good command of English and at least basic German skills to effectively communicate with non-scientific staff, patients, and students, with a willingness to improve if necessary

We offer:

• Meaningful work at a prominent medical research, teaching and patient care facility
• Exciting research projects that take medical technology to the next level
• Flat hierarchies with the chance to take on responsibility right from the start
• Opportunity for daily learning and professional development
• Conditions for an excellent work-life-balance and a team that truly supports it
• Childcare through partnerships with children's facilities in the vicinity of the university hospital
• JobTicket for public transport
• Use of the on-campus fitness studio

Your contact in the HR Directorate

Katrin Hantke

Tel.: 0351-458 5585