Summary
The Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics (Cognitive Neuroscience & Neurotechnology group, led by Dr. Romy Lorenz) is offering a fully funded 3-year PhD position focusing on how internal bodily states shape cognitive control. The researcher will lead the human neuroimaging component using cutting-edge cortical layer-specific ultra-high-field 9.4T fMRI, diffusion MRI, and machine learning to investigate interactions between the anterior insula and prefrontal cortex.
PhD Position (m/f/d) | Ultra-High-Field Layer fMRI of Cognitive Control and Interoception
Designation
- PhD Student / Doctoral Researcher (m/f/d)
Key Information Overview
| Attribute | Details |
| Position | PhD Candidate (m/f/d) |
| Institution | Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics |
| Research Group | Cognitive Neuroscience & Neurotechnology (Dr. Romy Lorenz) |
| Collaborating Partner | Heidelberg University (Dr. Sebastian Wieland) |
| Location | Tübingen, Germany |
| Remuneration / Salary | 65% TVöD E13 (German public sector scale) |
| Travel & Research Allowance | ~€2,500 / year |
| Duration | 3 years (initially, with possibility of extension) |
| Start Date | January 2027 |
| Application Code | Application for PhD-3: Insula |
| Application Deadline | October 1, 2026 |
Research Area
- Cognitive Neuroscience & Neuroimaging
- Ultra-High-Field Layer-fMRI (9.4 Tesla) & Diffusion MRI (3 Tesla)
- Cognitive Control, Interoception & Brain Connectivity (Anterior Insula – Prefrontal Cortex)
Location
- City/Country: Tübingen, Germany
- Host Address: Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics, Max-Planck-Ring 8, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
Eligibility / Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
- Academic Degree: An excellent Master’s degree in Cognitive (Neuro)science, Psychology, Biomedical Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, or a related discipline.
- Technical Skills: Strong background in fMRI data analysis tools (e.g., FSL, FreeSurfer, ANTs) and proficient programming skills in Python and Bash on Linux.
- Interests & Communication: Strong interest in cognitive neuroscience/cognitive control; excellent written and spoken English; strong analytical and quantitative problem-solving abilities.
Desirable / Advantageous Skills:
- Experience with MRI data acquisition (ultra-high-field MRI like 7T/9.4T or layer fMRI is a plus).
- Familiarity with task programming (PsychoPy), Git/GitHub, and High-Performance Computing (HPC) environments.
Scholarship & Position Description
- Project Scope: You will acquire high-resolution laminar fMRI data at 9.4T and diffusion MRI at 3T, develop a real-time closed-loop heartbeat-detection paradigm, and analyze task-based fMRI data via layer-specific functional connectivity and multivariate pattern analysis.
- Facilities & Environment: Access to state-of-the-art MRI facilities (Siemens 9.4T, Prisma 3T, 14.2T animal system, EEG, eye-tracking, fMRI-TMS) within the TübingenNeuroCampus (over 100 active groups).
- Doctoral Training: Opportunity to join the Graduate Training Centre of Neuroscience for courses, workshops, and summer schools.
- Funding & Benefits: Paid employment contract based on 65% TVöD E13, ~€2,500/year travel support, and equal-opportunity employment support for diversity and work-family life balance.
How to Apply
Submit your complete application as a single PDF file via email to Dr. Romy Lorenz at:
- Email:
romy.lorenz@tuebingen.mpg.de - Subject Line:
Application for PhD-3: Insula
Required Application Documents:
- Personal Statement (max 2 pages): Detailing your research interests, personal qualifications, and motivation.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Including a publication list and a link to your GitHub profile.
- Academic Records: Degree certificates and academic transcripts of records.
- References: Names and contact details of three academic referees.
Last Date for Apply
- October 1, 2026
