PhD Position in Economics

Department: Integrative Neurophysiology, Center for Neurogenetics and Cognitive Research (CNCR)
Faculty: Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Contract: 0.8 FTE or higher, initial 1-year contract extendable to 3 years
Application deadline: 1 June 2026

Project Description

Human cognition is unparalleled, yet we lack a mechanistic understanding of the specific neurons and circuits that support it. This PhD project, funded by a European Research Consolidator grant, focuses on specialized neuron types in the human cortex vulnerable in Alzheimer’s disease: layer 3 Pyramidal Neurons and Double Bouquet Cells (DBCs).

Previous research shows that layer 3 Pyramidal Neurons possess unique physiological and morphological properties that distinguish them from other species and correlate with cognitive performance. These neurons act as hubs in cognitive networks, integrating thousands of synaptic inputs. To maintain excitation-inhibition balance, specialized interneurons such as DBCs provide critical inhibitory control.

Project Objectives:

• Investigate the function and circuitry of these specialized human neurons
• Explore how their activity contributes to efficient computation
• Understand their selective vulnerability in cognitive disorders

Your Role

You will join the Neurons of Human Cognition team, led by Dr. Natalia Goriounova, at CNCR. This project involves working with live human brain tissue obtained during neurosurgery and using advanced molecular and electrophysiological techniques.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform single- and multi-cell patch-clamp recordings to map circuit dynamics
• Apply viral tools to label neuron types in organotypic slice cultures
• Analyze existing datasets using bioinformatics tools
• Develop computational models linking circuit function to neuronal/network computation
• Collaborate with internal and external research partners
• Participate in teaching (~10% of your time)
• Contribute to project meetings, reporting, and scientific discussions
• Co-supervise MSc and PhD students
• Publish and present research internationally

Candidate Profile

We seek a highly motivated researcher with:

• PhD degree in Neuroscience
• Excellent English communication and writing skills
• Experience in cellular electrophysiology in brain slices (patch clamp)
• Strong programming and data analysis skills (e.g., Python)
• Experience in molecular biology, cell, and organotypic culturing techniques
• Interest or experience in computational modeling
• An international research profile evidenced by peer-reviewed publications
• Ability to work effectively in interdisciplinary and collaborative environments

Diversity & Inclusion:
VU Amsterdam welcomes applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds. Candidates are encouraged to apply even if they do not meet all listed criteria but see themselves reflected in the profile.

What We Offer

• Salary: €3,546 – €5,538 gross/month (Scale 10, UFO profile Researcher 4, full-time)
• Initial 1-year contract, extendable to 3 years after positive evaluation
• 38-hour full-time week with 232 hours holiday leave/year (pro-rata for part-time)
• 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% year-end bonus
• Contribution to commuting expenses
• Pension scheme (ABP)
• Optional personalized benefits package

About CNCR & Faculty of Science

The Center for Neurogenetics and Cognitive Research (CNCR) participates in the Graduate School ONWAR. The Department of Integrative Neurophysiology provides hands-on access to cutting-edge techniques for studying human neurons.

The Faculty of Science at VU Amsterdam addresses fundamental scientific problems through an interdisciplinary and computational lens. The faculty hosts 11,000 students and 1,600 staff across 10 departments.

Campus & Location:

• Located in Amsterdam’s Zuidas business district
• Excellent accessibility by public transport
• Diverse and inclusive community

Application Process

• Submit your CV, motivation letter, reference letters, and PhD diploma via the VU application system.
• Deadline: 1 June 2026
• Acquisition in response to this advertisement is not appreciated.

Contact for Questions:
Dr. Natalia Goriounova – [email protected]

In your application, please refer to Professorpositions.com