PhD Position on ’Linking Locus Coeruleus Function to Sleep, Brain Function and Health, and Autonomic Control in Humans’

PhD Position on ’Linking Locus Coeruleus Function to Sleep, Brain Function and Health, and Autonomic Control in Humans’

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Neural Control of Movement Lab at ETH Zurich (Department of Health Sciences and Technology) focuses on understanding how the brain controls behavior and on developing non-invasive interfaces to modulate brain function during wake and sleep. We are seeking a motivated and skilled PhD candidate to join our team.

Project background

This project aims to explore how sleep, brain function, health, and autonomic control are interconnected, with a particular focus on the role of the Locus Coeruleus. By using advanced electrophysiological measurement methods, different brain stimulation modalities, and pupillometry, we intend to unravel the neural mechanisms underlying these functions.

Job description

The successful candidate will work on designing and conducting human experiments that link sleep, arousal, and autonomic functions. A central focus of the project will be using pupillometry to indirectly assess Locus Coeruleus activity, exploring its role in regulating arousal and supporting brain function through both pharmacological and non-invasive interventions.

Your work will include:

• Configuration and integration of advanced brain stimulation techniques with multimodal biosignal recording systems
• Hands-on data acquisition using advanced electrophysiological measurement methods, brain stimulation techniques, and pupillometry during sleep and wake in humans.
• Development of study designs and research questions.
• Advanced signal processing.
• Dissemination of research findings through scientific publications and presentations.

The project provides a unique opportunity to combine and synchronize different brain stimulation modalities and electrophysiological measurements, including EEG, ECG, and pupillometry. The application of brain stimulation techniques will be an integral part of the research, making this an exciting and technically challenging position.

Profile

We are looking for a candidate with:

• A Master’s degree (or nearing completion) in neuroscience, neurophysiology, biomedical engineering, health sciences and technology, or a related field.
• Strong technical skills, particularly in programming (e.g., Matlab, Python) and in setting up complex biosignal recording and brain stimulation systems.
• Experience with at least one electrophysiological recording method, brain stimulation technique, or related experimental method listed above is desirable.
• The ability to design and conduct rigorous experiments in humans, with a particular emphasis on synchronizing data from multiple sources.
• Strong communication skills, scientific curiosity, and a very collaborative spirit.
• A good integrative and connected thinking ability with a structured, reliable, and well-organized personality.
• Flexibility in working hours, as some experiments may require nighttime work.
• Fluency in English; German language skills are an advantage.

Workplace

We offer

A fully funded PhD position (~4 years) in a great scientific and social environment at a world leading University (see below). The project will equally combine lab work and computational analysis of the acquired data and provides a great opportunity to establish a portfolio that covers all aspects of scientific work.

Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich

We value diversity

In line with our values , ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents until the 13th of October 2024:

• Curriculum Vitae including educational history, full list of publications, awards, etc.
• Research motivation statement of max. two A4 pages covering your interests, goals, experiences, and how they would relate to and fit in with proposed research domain and activities
• Diplomas
• Names, e-mail addresses, and phone numbers of at least two references, mentioning for each of them the professional relationship you have with them

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

Starting date: November 2024 (or upon mutual agreement)

For further information about the Neural Control of Movement lab, please visit our website . Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr. Caroline Lustenberger caroline.lustenbergerhest.ethz.ch or Dr. Sarah Meissner by email sarah.meissnerhest.ethz.ch (no applications).

Apply online now

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.