MSCA-DN PhD position in translational multiscale neuroscience

Understanding how brain cells interact to form circuits, how circuits give rise to networks, and how networks support cognition is one of the most exciting challenges in clinical neuroscience. For complex conditions such as multiple sclerosis and autism spectrum disorder, progress has been slowed by animal models that optimize for single causes or treatments, without reflecting the diversity and complexity seen in patients.

This Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) doctoral network PhD project takes a fundamentally new approach: embedding animal models in a translational framework that connects multiple scales of brain organization, from molecules and cells to whole-brain networks and cognition. The doctoral candidate (DC) will use insights from patients to guide experiments in healthy rats, with the goal of building a multiscale foundation of knowledge that is directly relevant for understanding complex human diseases.

This project is part of the TRANSCEND Doctoral Network (https://biomed.au.dk/TRANSCEND-network/), funded by the European Union’s Horizon Europe programme under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA). TRANSCEND (“Transcending limitations of translational research on Multiple Sclerosis and Autism Spectrum Disorder”) brings together 13 doctoral candidates across 11 international partner universities on the topic of translational research.

Would you like to know more about the different phases within the PhD trajectory? You can read more about this on this page.

As a doctoral candidate you will:

• Collaborate closely with the experimental team that acquires these multiscale data
• Analyse rat MRI data, including integration with histology and calcium imaging
• Combine data across cellular, network, and whole-brain scales, primarily through network science and computational innovations
• Collaborate with researchers across neuroscience, philosophy of science, and translational modelling
• Disseminate findings through publications, presentations, and network activities

You are a motivated candidate who meets the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) eligibility criteria and has:

• MSc (or equivalent) in neuroscience, biomedical sciences, psychology, or a related field
• Strong interest in multiscale neuroscience and translational research
• Experience with MRI analysis (preferably in rats)
• Skills in data analysis, programming, and quantitative methods
• Interest in combining MRI with histological and other modalities
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work in international teams

Strict MSCA eligibility requirements:

• You must not hold a doctoral degree at the date of recruitment
• You must comply with the mobility rule: you have not resided or carried out main activity in the Netherlands for more than 12 months of the past 36 months)
• You may carry out secondments for up to one third of the fellowship duration

You will be based at the department of Anatomy and Neurosciences of Amsterdam UMC, a leading center for medical research with state-of-the-art imaging and behavioral neuroscience facilities. You will be embedded at MULTINET lab (https://multinetlab.com/), a multidisciplinary research group aiming to connect cells, networks and interventions to improve patient outcomes.

Moreover, secondments will take place at:

• University of Bielefeld (Dr. Lara Keuck) – philosophical aspects of translational research
• University of Porto (Dr. Patricia Monteiro) – translational modelling and experimental design

The TRANSCEND network offers high-level training, workshops, and international collaboration opportunities to support your scientific and professional development.