Job ID: 119881

PhD student – Developing computational methods for optimising deep brain stimulation

Position: Ph.D. Student

Deadline: 6 September 2024

Employment Start Date: 1 October 2024

Contract Length: 4 years

City: Wurzburg

Country: Germany

Institution: University Hospital Wurzburg

Department: Department of Neurology

Description:

We are seeking a PhD candidate for a project within the CRC295 “Retuning dynamic motor network disorders using neuromodulation”. “Retune” is an established Collaborative Research Center (CRC) funded by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (German Research Foundation), which recently received an extension for four more years. It is led by the University Hospitals of Würzburg and Berlin (Charité) and includes multidisciplinary research projects.

The project aims to build a computational toolbox that will enable optimization of deep brain stimulation in patients and rodents with Parkinson’s disease and Dystonia. This will be achieved using machine learning models to predict outcomes such as motor improvement and side-effects using multi-modal inputs including electrode localization, stimulation regions (E-field, VTAs), structural connectivity and functional connectivity. The objective is to maximize positive outcomes, such as improved motor function or reduced tremors, while minimizing negative symptoms of DBS, such as cognitive impairment or mood disturbances.

The PhD student will join the newly established group by Dr. Peach (Würzburg), the lab of Prof. Reich (Würzburg), as well as the lab of Prof. Boehm-Sturm (Charite, Berlin). The PhD student will have the opportunity to work in both Würzburg and Berlin. PhD candidates will be affiliated with the Graduate School for Life Sciences in Würzburg (www.graduateschools.uni-wuerzburg.de/life-sciences).

We offer a supportive and stimulating research environment with a strong focus on translational neuroscience, access to state-of-the art research facilities and equipment, opportunities for collaborations as well as participation in trainings, workshops and professional development opportunities.

Applicants should have a Master or Diploma degree from computer science, physics, mathematics, or a computational-neuroscience-related field. Research experience in any of the following methods is of advantage: machine learning, computational modelling, bioinformatics, programming (Matlab and/or Python), neuroscience tools, neuroscientific data (MRI, LFP). More generally, interest or experience in translating research findings into clinical practice, focusing on improving patient outcomes through technological advancements.

The University Hospital Würzburg is an equal opportunity employer and female scientists are especially encouraged to apply.

Start of the position: October 2024

Salary bracket: E13 (65%), German TVÖ-L

If you possess the required qualifications and are excited about the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge neuroscience research, we encourage you to apply. Candidates are invited to submit their electronic application including CV and motivation letter to:

Dr. Robert Peach: peach_r@ukw.de

Deadline: 06.09.24