PhD Scholarship in Neuropsychobiology of Aggression: The Johannes Gutenberg University Medical Center Mainz invites applications for a PhD Position (65% E13 TV-UM, 3 years) as part of the DFG-funded Transregio 379 collaborative research project: Neuropsychobiology of Aggression. This position focuses on investigating self-regulation deficits in young offenders and developing non-invasive brain stimulation interventions using cutting-edge neuroimaging and neurostimulation technologies.
PhD Scholarship in Neuropsychobiology of Aggression
Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Position | PhD Student (m/f/d) |
| Duration | 3 years |
| Salary | 65% E13 TV-UM |
| Location | Neuroimaging Center (NIC), University Medical Center Mainz, Germany |
| Start Date | From October 2024 (funded) |
| Last Date to Apply | 15 June 2025 |
Designation
PhD Student (Doctoral Researcher)
Research Area
- Neuropsychobiology of Aggression
- Neural mechanisms of self-regulation deficits
- Non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) techniques (e.g., Transcranial Ultrasonic Stimulation – TUS)
- EEG-fMRI neuroimaging
- Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and criminal behavior
Location
Neuroimaging Center (NIC), Johannes Gutenberg University Medical Center, Mainz, Germany
Eligibility / Qualification
- Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Medicine, Psychology, Health Sciences, Neuroscience, Biology, Engineering, or related fields
- Prior experience in neuroimaging and/or neurostimulation
- Fluency in English (German not required)
- Strong interest in methods development, neurotechnology, and translational neuroscience
- Independent and collaborative working style
- Excellent technical and experimental skills
- Solid foundation in statistics and experimental methods
Job Description
- Develop and refine task-based EEG-triggered TUS interventions
- Conduct EEG-TUS studies on healthy subjects to validate neural engagement and modulation
- Perform fMRI-based analysis targeting the cognitive control and negative valence systems
- Implement a proof-of-concept study in young offenders
- Work closely with an already recruited PhD student focused on neural network characterization
- Collaborate in a multidisciplinary team of experts in forensic psychiatry, neuroimaging, and neurostimulation
- Access to cutting-edge tools: 3T MRI (Siemens PRISMA), neuronavigated TMS/TUS, and concurrent EEG-fMRI setups
How to Apply
- Prepare a single PDF file including:
- Detailed CV
- Personal statement (max. 500 words) outlining research motivation, interest, and experience
- Copies of academic degrees with grades
- Names and contact details of two referees willing to provide letters of recommendation
- Email the PDF to the following contacts:
Last Date to Apply
🗓️ 15 June 2025
If you’re passionate about neuroscience, brain stimulation technologies, and translational research, and want to contribute to innovative mental health solutions in a dynamic academic environment—this opportunity is for you!
