2026 Postdoctoral Researcher Position at Ruhr University Bochum

Postdoc as a research associate for neuroimaging on extinction learning in the 3rd funding period of the SFB1280 (TV-L E13)

For our human experimental research on pain-related extinction learning in subprojects A10 and A12 within the Collaborative Research Center SFB 1280 "Extinction Learning," funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG), we are seeking a PhD-level research associate to support us in the field of neuroimaging (fMRI). The position is initially limited to the duration of the third funding period until June 30, 2029, and is full-time (100%, TV-L E13).

Your tasks:

• As part of the research team, you will work on innovative experimental research projects in the field of extinction learning, with a particular focus on the neural mechanisms underlying learning and memory processes.
• Support with proven methodological expertise in the field of human brain imaging in the conception, execution and evaluation of multimodal brain imaging data in combination with behavioral data.
• In this role, you will contribute your own scientific ideas and actively drive the further development of existing research approaches.  
• Write scientific publications and present your research results at national and international conferences.
• Supervise bachelor's and master's theses as well as doctoral projects, thereby promoting scientific independence and the development of young researchers.

Table of Content

• Summary
• Benefits
• Requirements
• Application Deadline
• How To Apply

Summary

• Application DeadlineFebruary 23, 2026
• Study LevelPostdoctoral Fellowships
• SponsorRuhr University Bochum
• School to studyRuhr University Bochum
• Eligible CountryAll Countries

Benefits

• Diverse opportunities for innovative research in the translational field of our center, integrated into the SFB1280
• Attractive opportunities for further scientific qualification
• Excellent infrastructural conditions for experimental research
• Team-oriented collaboration in a committed, international and appreciative scientific environment
• Flexible working hours and opportunities for location-flexible work within the framework of project-related tasks
• Employment at one of Germany's largest universities, part of the University Alliance Ruhr

Requirements

• Completed PhD in Psychology, Cognitive Neuroscience or a comparable discipline
• Proven experience in human experimental research approaches and brain imaging, as well as in the collection, evaluation and publication of complex datasets, ideally using task-based fMRI.
• Excellent publication record in relevant professional journals
• High interest in the conceptual development of innovative research ideas and the formation of a scientific profile.

Check also:
2026 Fully Funded Humboldt Research Fellowship
2026 Konrad Adenauer Foundation Scholarship

Application Deadline

How To Apply

• Submit your application, quoting reference number ANR 5400, by February 23, 2026, via the online application portal.

For more information, kindly visit the Ruhr University Bochum webpage.