PhD Candidate on The Neurocognitive Mechanisms of Repetitive Negative Thoughts / PhD Candidate on The Neurocognitive Mechanisms of Repetitive Negative Thoughts

PhD Position on The Neurocognitive Mechanisms of Repetitive Negative Thoughts

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

A World-Class Research Environment at the Intersection of Neuroscience and Technology

The Neural Control of Movement Lab, led by Prof. Dr. Nicole Wenderoth, and the Brain-Body Regulation Lab, led by Prof. Dr. Sarah Meissner at the Department of Health Sciences and Technology (D-HEST) of ETH Zurich, invite exceptional candidates for a PhD position to investigate the neurocognitive mechanisms of repetitive negative thoughts (RNT). The NCM Lab focuses on understanding how the brain controls behavior and aims to develop non-invasive interfaces to modulate brain function during wake and sleep. Meanwhile, the BBR Lab investigates the mechanisms underpinning brain arousal and its interactions with other bodily systems. Together, the labs utilize state-of-the-art neuroimaging and biofeedback techniques, with a strong commitment to translating fundamental neuroscience insights into clinical and consumer applications.

The NCM and BBR Labs are part of D-HEST, ETH Zurich's department dedicated to advancing the science and technology of human health. The department unites researchers across neuroscience, biomedical engineering, movement science, nutrition, and medicine to address pressing challenges in human biology. D-HEST emphasizes interdisciplinarity, translation, and technological innovation with the aim of improving quality of life. Situated in the heart of Zurich, Switzerland, the department offers a stimulating environment at the intersection of world-class basic research and clinical applications, with robust connections to leading industry partners.

Project Background

Repetitive negative thoughts (RNT) are persistent, intrusive, and maladaptive thought patterns that are central to depression and anxiety. Despite their clinical importance, the neurocognitive mechanisms underlying RNT remain poorly understood.

This project tests the novel hypothesis that RNT arises from reduced sensitivity to environmental changes, manifested as impaired adaptation of learning to environmental volatility, driven by abnormal noradrenergic signaling. In close collaboration with the University of Oxford, we will combine cutting-edge computational modeling of human behavior with pupillometry and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to address this question.

Job Description

The successful candidate will design and conduct human experiments that modulate noradrenergic activity using a pupil-based self-regulation approach developed in our lab, while simultaneously measuring RNT, behavior, and brain activity using fMRI.

• Design and implement sophisticated experimental paradigms in human participants
• Acquire multimodal data in human participants, including pupillometry, behavioral measures, and fMRI
• Integrate real-time pupil-based self-regulation into adaptive learning cognitive tasks (Python/MATLAB)
• Apply computational models of behavior and cognition
• Analyze high-dimensional datasets (behavioral, physiological, neuroimaging)
• Publish in leading international journals and present at top-tier conferences

This interdisciplinary project uniquely combines computational neuroscience, experimental psychology, physiology, and neuroimaging, providing a rare opportunity to work at the interface of multiple cutting-edge methodologies. Hands-on experimental work will be a central and substantial component of the position.

Profile

We are looking for a candidate with:

• A Master's degree (or near completion) in human neuroscience, neurophysiology, experimental psychology, biomedical engineering, health sciences and technology, or a related field
• Experience with—and enthusiasm for—data collection in human participants
• Strong programming skills (e.g., MATLAB, Python) and interest in computational approaches
• Experience with analyzing electrophysiological data and/or fMRI data
• A solid understanding of experimental design and statistical analysis
• Experience in scientific writing
• A high level of independence, initiative, and problem-solving ability
• Excellent communication skills and a strong commitment to scientific excellence
• Intellectual curiosity and enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research
• Fluency in English; German language skills are a plus

We Offer

A fully funded PhD position (~4 years) in an excellent scientific and social environment at a world-leading university. The project combines experimental lab work with computational data analysis and offers an outstanding opportunity to develop a comprehensive scientific skill set.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us—we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your online application using the form below:

• Curriculum Vitae including educational history, full list of publications, awards, etc.
• Research motivation statement of max. two A4 pages covering your interests, goals, experiences, and how they relate to the proposed research domain and activities
• Diplomas
• Names, e-mail addresses, and phone numbers of at least two references, mentioning the professional relationship

For further information about the Neural Control of Movement Lab, please visit our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr. Weronika Potok-Szybińska (weronika.potok@hest.ethz.ch) or Prof. Nicole Wenderoth (nicole.wenderoth@hest.ethz.ch). Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking in an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, we forge connections all over the world to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.