PhD position in computational neuroscience

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

We invite applications for a PhD position in the field of computational neuroscience. The successful candidate will join a dynamic team at the neural dynamics lab of the Institute of Neuroinformatics (INI), ETH Zurich.

Our lab's research focuses on the dynamical organization of the human brain activity in neurological disorders and behavior.

We aim at identifying and modeling the spatiotemporal dynamics of neural activity at the local field potential and single-unit levels that support language processing on the cognitive side and epileptic seizures on the pathological side.

We use a variety of methods, including short- and long-term intracranial recordings from patients with epilepsy, statistical and mechanistic modeling of neural activity, and natural language processing tools such as large language models.

Project background

Language is a skill unique to humans among other animals. However, little is known about the neurophysiological processes that enable the construction of complex sentences. New electrodes now allow researchers to record many single neurons in humans during speech tasks, offering new possibilities for developing theoretical models that will help us better understand the neural dynamics underlying word and sentence formation.

Job description

The three-year and half research project consists in modeling neural computations involved in speech processing, at the phonetic, lexical and syntactic levels. The candidates will develop theoretical models of network of single neurons, using dynamical systems theory and simulations. The models will be fit to single-cell intracranial recordings from human participants who perform speech tasks.

The candidate will integrate a team working on both theoretical and experimental aspects of speech processing. The candidate will efficiently combine independent work and collaborative exchange and discussions with other team members, as well as with institue colleagues.

Profile

We welcome applications from candidates with:

a Master's degree in physics, computer science, mathematics, computational neuroscience, or related fields.
Extensive knowledge of dynamical systems theory.
Excellent programming skills in Python.
Previous experience in neuroscience, and in particular computational neuroscience, is a plus, but not required
A proactive, independent, and structured working style

A successful applicant is passionate about science and collaboration with a strong motivation and an intrinsic interest in drug discovery and development. The candidate must be able to communicate effectively in English as working language in a multidisciplinary environment.

The start date of the project is in September 2025, with some flexibility.

Workplace

We offer

Collaborative environment at the Institute of Neuroinformatics in Zurich, a world-leading institute in computational neuroscience and neuromorphics.
Your job with impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development, but also actively contributes to positive change in society
We are actively committed to a sustainable and climate-neutral university
You can expect numerous benefits, such as public transport season tickets and car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by the ASVZ, childcare and attractive pension benefits.

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:

CV
Motivation letter
Contact information for 2-3 references
Any other relevant documents

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

Further information about the Institute of Neuroinformatics can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Timothée Proix, email proix at ini dot ethz dot ch (no applications).

We would like to point out that the pre-selection is carried out by the responsible recruiters and not by artificial intelligence.

About ETH Zürich

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.