Postdoctoral Research Position in Sleep and Neurodegeneration Research

Postdoctoral Research Position in Sleep and Neurodegeneration Research

University of Zurich

Zurich, Switzerland

We are seeking an outstanding postdoctoral researcher to join our dynamic team investigating the effects of phase-targeted auditory stimulation of slow waves during sleep on disease progression in neurodegeneration.

Animal studies and observational research in humans suggest that deeper sleep is associated with slower progression of neurodegenerative processes. Our group at the University Hospital Zurich (Prof. Christian R. Baumann, Dr. Angelina Maric), in collaboration with the University Children's Hospital Zurich (Prof. Reto Huber), is preparing to conduct several long-term studies to investigate whether deepening sleep through phase-targeted auditory stimulation of slow waves in patients with Parkinson's disease, isolated REM sleep behavior disorder (iRBD), or mild cognitive impairment (MCI) can modify the progression of neurodegenerative processes. In these studies, patients will self-administer phase-targeted auditory stimulation nightly at home over an 18-month period. EEG, brain imaging, fluid biomarkers, and clinical assessments will be used as outcome measures.

Your responsibilities

Main Responsibilities:

Lead and conduct in-depth analysis of sleep EEG data;

Develop and implement advanced EEG signal processing and analysis techniques;

Evaluate and adapt auditory stimulation parameters in a personalized manner;

Collaborate with multidisciplinary team members (neuroscientists, clinicians, study nurses etc.) to execute experimental protocols;

Prepare, draft and contribute to scientific manuscripts and presentations;

Supervise PhD and master students in data analysis and scientific writing.

Your profile

Main Requirements:

PhD in Neuroscience or a related field;

Extensive expertise in EEG analysis, preferably in sleep EEG analysis;

Strong background in sleep physiology and neurodegenerative diseases;

Proven ability to analyze large datasets and proficiency in relevant software (MATLAB, Python, or similar tools for EEG analysis);

Ability to work independently and in a collaborative research environment;

Additional Desired Qualifications:

Experience with auditory stimulation paradigms during sleep;

Expertise or knowledge in brain imaging (e.g., MRI, PET, etc.) would be a strong plus;

Proficiency in applied statistics;

Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals;

Excellent communication skills in English, both written and oral.