PhD Position on The Neurocognitive Mechanisms of Repetitive Negative Thoughts / PhD Position 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, invites exceptional candidates for a PhD position focused on exploring the neurocognitive mechanisms of repetitive negative thoughts (RNT). The NCM Lab aims to understand the brain's control over behavior and develop non-invasive interfaces to modulate brain function during wakefulness and sleep. Meanwhile, the BBR Lab investigates brain arousal mechanisms and their interactions with other bodily systems. Together, these labs utilize state-of-the-art neuroimaging and biofeedback technologies, with a shared commitment to translating fundamental neuroscience insights into practical applications. D-HEST serves as ETH Zurich’s hub for advancing the science and technology of human health, bringing together researchers in neuroscience, biomedical engineering, movement science, nutrition, and medicine to tackle critical challenges across human biology. The department emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, translation of research, and innovative technology aimed at enhancing quality of life. Located in the vibrant city of Zurich, Switzerland, the department provides a stimulating environment at the intersection of world-class basic research and clinical applications, with strong ties to leading industry partners.

Project Background

Repetitive negative thoughts (RNT) are persistent, intrusive, and maladaptive thought patterns that play a significant role in depression and anxiety. Despite their clinical relevance, the neurocognitive mechanisms underlying RNT remain largely unexplored.

This project will investigate the innovative hypothesis that RNT results from diminished sensitivity to environmental changes, reflected in 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 to modulate noradrenergic activity using a pupil-based self-regulation approach developed in our lab (Meissner et al., Nature Human Behaviour, 2024), while measuring RNT, behavior, and brain activity using fMRI.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Designing and implementing sophisticated experimental paradigms in human participants.
• Acquiring multimodal data in human participants, including pupillometry, behavioral measures, and fMRI.
• Integrating real-time pupil-based self-regulation into adaptive learning cognitive tasks (Python/MATLAB).
• Applying computational models of behavior and cognition.
• Analyzing high-dimensional datasets (behavioral, physiological, neuroimaging).
• Publishing in leading international journals and presenting at top-tier conferences.

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

Profile

We are seeking candidates with the following qualifications:

• 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 analyzing electrophysiological 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.

Workplace

The position will be based at the ETH Zurich, a leading university renowned for its cutting-edge research and collaborative environment.

What We Offer

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

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich promotes an inclusive culture that values diversity and ensures that equal opportunities are available to all. We are committed to creating a working and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. Additionally, sustainability is one of our core values as we work towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your online application using the form below. Please include the following documents:

• Curriculum Vitae, detailing your educational history, comprehensive list of publications, awards, etc.
• Research motivation statement (maximum two A4 pages) outlining your interests, goals, experiences, and how they relate to the proposed research domain and activities.
• Diplomas.
• Contact information for at least two references, including names, email addresses, and phone numbers, along with their professional relationship.

For further information about the Neural Control of Movement Lab, please visit our website. If you have any questions regarding the position, please contact Dr. Weronika Potok-Szybińska at weronika.potok@hest.ethz.ch or Prof. Nicole Wenderoth at nicole.wenderoth@hest.ethz.ch. Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, groundbreaking fundamental research, and direct transfer of new knowledge to society. Over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that fosters independent thinking and inspires excellence. Situated in the heart of Europe while forging global connections, we work together to develop solutions for the challenges of today and tomorrow.