Research associate (m/f/x)

In order to fill a fixed-term position in part-time (29.87 hours/week = 75%) May 1st, 2026, we are looking for one

Research associate (m/f/x)

The Department of Neuropsychology investigates the neural basis of learning, memory, and spatial navigation in humans, as well as their connection to Alzheimer's disease and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). We combine state-of-the-art methods of cognitive neuroscience (fMRI at 3T and 7T, EEG, simultaneous EEG/fMRI measurements, intracranial EEG, human single cell recordings) with the analysis of stimulus-specific memory traces using multivariate analysis methods (e.g., representational similarity analysis and deep neural network models). Our goal is to identify the neural traces of memories of specific events and places, their transformation during learning and memory consolidation, and their impairment in neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders. For more information about our research, please visit: http://www.ruhr-unibochum.de/neuropsy/indexE.htm

The Neuropsychology Working Group led by Prof. Dr. Nikolai Axmacher at the Faculty of Psychology has a vacancy for a Research Associate starting May 1st, 2026. This position is part of the project “The Transformation of Autobiographical Memories through Empathetic Interactions,” which is funded by the German Research Foundation and the Israel Science Foundation. In the event of employment, your responsibilities will include setting up and conducting the proposed studies.

The Ruhr-Universität Bochum is one of Germany’s leading research universities, addressing the whole range of academic disciplines. A highly dynamic setting enables researchers and students to work across the traditional boundaries of academic subjects and faculties. To create knowledge networks within and beyond the university is Ruhr-Universität Bochum’s declared aim.

• Recruiting test subjects
• Collecting behavioral and neuroimaging data using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI)
• Previous experience in research on emotional memory
• Processing collected data using complex analysis methods
• Supervising student assistants
• preparing manuscripts for publication in scientific journals

• Bachelor's/Master's degree in psychology, cognitive science, engineering, or a related field
• Research expertise in the field of emotional memory
• Excellent programming skills
• Experience with data analysis in the field of cognitive neuroscience (fMRI and/or EEG)
• Proficiency in English