PhD Candidate in Neuroscience: Brain Architecture and Sensory Processing in Zebrafish Forebrain
Explore neural circuit architecture and sensory processing in zebrafish forebrain using advanced imaging and computational methods.
Best for:Best for neuroscientists with hands-on experience in electron microscopy, calcium imaging, Python programming, and anatomical neural reconstructions, seeking a multidisciplinary PhD in systems neuroscience.
Overview
This PhD position at NTNU’s Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience offers a multidisciplinary opportunity to investigate how brain architecture underpins sensory processing in zebrafish forebrain. Under the mentorship of Professor Emre Yaksi, the successful candidate will combine cutting-edge 3D electron microscopy, calcium imaging, confocal microscopy, and computational analysis to reconstruct neural circuits and link structural organization to functional responses. The project integrates experimental neuroscience with data science, aiming to uncover mechanistic principles of sensory computation. The role is ideal for candidates with a strong background in neuroscience, imaging techniques, and computational analysis, seeking to contribute to fundamental neuroscience research while developing expertise in advanced imaging and data-driven neuroscience.
What you'll do
- Conduct high-quality doctoral research focused on reconstructing and analyzing neural circuits in zebrafish forebrain using 3D electron microscopy and calcium imaging.
- Develop and apply computational pipelines for processing large-scale imaging datasets and integrating structural and functional neural data.
- Perform anatomical reconstructions of neural circuits, including synaptic connectivity and cell-type identification, using state-of-the-art software.
- Carry out calcium imaging experiments to map functional response properties of neural circuits during sensory stimulation.
- Contribute to academic publications, including peer-reviewed articles and popular science dissemination.
- Participate in international conferences, research stays, and collaborative projects within the Yaksi Lab and broader neuroscience community.
- Engage in undergraduate and master-level teaching as part of the academic responsibilities.
- Present research findings at group meetings, workshops, and conferences to foster scientific communication.
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree in neuroscience, biomedical sciences, biology, or a closely related discipline, with a major independent project (minimum 30 ECTS).
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; no specific proficiency test mentioned, but excellent written and oral communication skills required.
Instruction: English
- Hands-on experience with reconstructing 3D electron microscopy data and associated segmentation software (e.g., CAVEclient, CloudVolume, Neuroglancer).
- Proficiency in Python programming, including data analysis libraries (e.g., NumPy, SciPy) and image processing packages.
- Experience with confocal microscopy, immunohistochemistry, fluorescence labeling, and tissue clearing methods.
- Practical knowledge of anatomical reconstructions of neural circuits, including tracing axonal projections or dendritic arbors.
- Experience with zebrafish husbandry, including colony maintenance, breeding, and handling procedures.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills in English.
- Must have a relevant Master's degree in neuroscience, biomedical sciences, biology, or equivalent, with a major independent project (minimum 30 ECTS).
- Master's degree must be obtained and documented before starting the position in July 2027.
- Average grade from Master's degree must be equivalent to B or better on NTNU’s grading scale.
- Must meet NTNU’s requirements for admission to the faculty's Doctoral Programme.
- No explicit nationality or residency restrictions mentioned.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-30
Applicants must submit their application through NTNU’s online recruitment portal. The application should include a CV, cover letter, certified copies of academic transcripts, and a list of publications if applicable. Additional documents may be requested depending on the evaluation process.
- CV
- Cover letter
- Certified copies of academic transcripts
- List of publications (if applicable)
- Proof of English proficiency (if not evident from prior education)
Contact
Emre Yaksi· Professor
Create a free profile to unlock your personal match score, the full requirements, funding details and how to apply — in English or Persian.