The research group Systems Physiology of Learning of Prof. Dr. Frank Ohl at the Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology (Magdeburg, Germany) offers

**2 PhD student positions (f/m/d)**

TV-L E 13; 100% working time

in the BMBF-funded collaborative project "AI-DISCO - Edge-Cloud AI for Distributed Sensing and Data Processing". The employment is available as soon as possible for an initial 3 years fixed-term period (in accordance with the availability of funds) with a salary of TV-L E 13 in full time with a weekly working time of 40 hours.

About the Project: AI-DISCO aims to bridge the gap between biological neural networks and next-generation artificial intelligence models and hardware chips. We are developing neuromorphic architectures and bio-inspired networks to optimize and evaluate AI systems. This includes analyzing energy-efficient neuroanatomical circuits, implementing Spiking Neural Networks (SNNs) on specialized hardware, and developing neuroprosthetics with wireless communication and neuromorphic data compression. The project involves both academic and industry partners.

Requirements

• Master’s Degree in Neuroscience, Computer Science, Engineering, Physics, or a related field
• Programming: Proficiency in at least one programming language
• Legal Status: Applicants must be EU citizens or already hold a valid residence/work permit for the EU

Desired Skills

• Strong interest in neuromorphic engineering and network theory
• Background in neurobiology or computational neuroscience
• Fluency in English (written and spoken)
• Ability to structure and organize your work

What We Offer

• A fully funded 100% TV-L E13 position for an initial 3-year fixed-term period, with the possibility of extension
• A vibrant, international research environment devoted to cutting-edge research at the interface between biological and artificial intelligence, with state-of-the-art infrastructure
• Your main workplace is Magdeburg, complemented by regular visits to our cooperation partners at the Lausitz Science Park in Cottbus; flexible working hours and hybrid remote work models that easily accommodate living in the Berlin area
• A structured PhD project with clearly defined milestones and dedicated supervision
• Tailored career development and strategic support that lays the foundation for your future role as an academic or industry expert.

To Apply

Send a single PDF file comprising:

• Motivation letter describing your experience, explaining why you are a good fit to the project
• CV and copy of your last relevant, academic degrees

state the reference *LIN 2026/07* to bewerbung@lin-magdeburg.de.

Review of the applications will start on 25th of May 2026 until the positions are filled. Please note that incomplete applications or applications not meeting the requirements outlined above will not be considered. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at the email address mentioned above.

The Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology (LIN) is an internationally recognized neuroscientific research institute and dedicated to the research on learning and memory. The LIN is a foundation under public law and committed to a comprehensive policy of Equal Opportunities in employment and research. We welcome all applications - regardless of gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, disability, age, and sexual orientation and identity.

If you have an international degree, please also enclose a certificate evaluation from the Central Office for Foreign Education (ZAB) with your application. If you do not yet have a certificate evaluation, you would have to apply for one upon successful application. For more information, please visit KMK

By submitting your application, you consent to the processing of your personal data for the purpose of the application process. Our detailed privacy policy for applicants (m/w/d) acc. Art. 13 DSGVO on data processing in the application process will be sent on request. No application or interview expenses can be paid. Documents will be deleted after 6 months.