PhD Candidate in Neuroscience: Brain Architecture and Sensory Processing in the Zebrafish Forebrain at NTNU Norwegian University of Science and Technology – Norway

Summary

The position is a PhD candidate role at NTNU’s Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience, focusing on how brain architecture influences sensory processing in the zebrafish forebrain. The project combines high‑resolution 3D electron microscopy, two‑photon calcium imaging, confocal microscopy, and computational analysis to reconstruct neural circuits and link structure to function. The candidate will work under Professor Emre Yaksi, receive a salary of NOK 580,000 per year, and benefit from a supportive international environment, career guidance, and pension fund membership. The contract lasts three years plus four months of promotion work, and successful completion leads to a doctorate and preparation for a research or academic career.

Key Facts

About the Project

The project aims to uncover how the structural organization of zebrafish forebrain circuits shapes sensory computation. It will generate large‑scale 3D electron‑microscopy maps, perform two‑photon calcium imaging of sensory responses, use confocal microscopy and histology to characterize cell types, and create anatomical reconstructions of single neurons and populations. Computational pipelines will integrate structural and functional data to identify principles governing sensory processing, providing a mechanistic link between brain architecture and function.

Key Responsibilities

• Complete the doctoral education and obtain a doctorate
• Carry out high‑quality research as described in the project plan
• Contribute to academic publications and popular‑science dissemination
• Participate actively in the Yaksi lab and research group
• Engage in international activities such as conferences or research stays
• Contribute to undergraduate and master‑level teaching
• Participate in career‑promoting activities (seminars, journal clubs, lab meetings)
• Adapt to changes in work duties after employment

Required Skills

• Hands‑on experience with 3D electron‑microscopy reconstruction and segmentation software (e.g., CAVEclient, CloudVolume, Neuroglancer)
• Experience producing 3D visualisations or animations of neural structures (e.g., Blender)
• Proficiency in Python programming and data‑analysis libraries (NumPy, SciPy)
• Practical experience with confocal microscopy, immunohistochemistry, fluorescence labeling and tissue clearing
• Experience with anatomical reconstruction of neural circuits
• Experience with zebrafish husbandry and handling
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English

Who Should Apply

Applicants should hold a relevant Master’s degree in neuroscience, biomedical sciences, biology or a closely related field, with a minimum grade of B (or equivalent). They must have hands‑on experience in 3D electron‑microscopy reconstruction, Python programming, confocal microscopy, zebrafish husbandry, and strong English communication skills. The role is suited to motivated researchers seeking a PhD that prepares them for academic or research positions in higher education or industry.

Benefits

• Strong and international scientific environment
• Career guidance and follow‑up throughout the PhD period
• Open and inclusive working environment
• Access to state‑of‑the‑art imaging infrastructure
• Mentor programme for new employees
• Membership in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund (SPK)
• Access to employee benefits for PhD candidates
• Gross salary of NOK 580,000 per annum

About the Employer

NTNU is a broad‑based university with a technical‑scientific profile, employing about 9,000 staff and 43,000 students across three cities, headquartered in Trondheim. The Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience, part of NTNU’s Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, is a world‑leading centre established as a Centre of Excellence in 2002 and recognized by the Kavli Foundation. The institute’s reputation is highlighted by two Nobel laureates among its professors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the gross annual salary for this PhD position?

The gross salary is normally NOK 580,000 per annum, depending on qualifications and seniority.