The German Institute of Human Nutrition Potsdam-Rehbruecke (DIfE) (https://www.dife.de/en/) is a member of the Leibniz Association. The institute’s mission is to conduct experimental and clinical research in the field of nutrition and health, with the aim of understanding the molecular basis of nutrition-dependent diseases, and of developing new strategies for treatment and prevention.

The Junior Research Group of Gut-Brain Interactions (GBI) (https://www.dife.de/en/research/departments-and-labs/gut-brain-interactions/) invites applications for

1 Postdoc (m/f/d)

starting May 1, 2027.

Project description

The project investigates how signals from the stomach interact with brain systems supporting arousal, attention and cognition. Combining electrogastrography (EGG) with EEG, fMRI and peripheral physiology, we study the neural dynamics of stomach–brain coupling in healthy individuals. A central aim is to determine whether experimentally induced changes in arousal influence gastric–brain coupling independently of changes in gastric activity, and how these dynamics relate to vigilance and behaviour. The postdoc will lead electrophysiological and multimodal analyses, contribute to experiments involving pharmacological and physiological manipulations, and have scope to develop an independent research line within the programme.

Skills and Requirements

• Excellent Master degree and doctoral degree in the areas of Psychology, Cognitive Neuroscience or Biology
• Strong background in electrophysiology (EEG, MEG, Intracranial EEG) and/or strong background in neuroimaging (fMRI data analysis, SPM, FSL)
• Solid understanding of statistics and signal processing and Python/Matlab
• High motivation for interdisciplinary research on brain–body interactions
• Experience with physiological data (EGG, ECG, Respiration, Pupil) or Psychophysics is an asset
• Proficiency in English (spoken and written)
• Very high motivation and willingness for interdisciplinary collaboration in a diverse research environment

We offer:

• Excellent technical equipment, a wide range of experimental methods and a dynamic and interactive research environment
• Remuneration according to TV-L, level 13, plus annual special payment and company pension scheme
• Family-friendly working conditions (certificate "audit berufundfamilie”)
• Supporting of mobility with a jobticket for using the public transport
• Easy accessibility by public transport or car (including free parking)
• 30 days of vacation
• Participation in the benefits program for employees ("Corporate Benefits")

The advertised position is available for 1 year with the option of extension.

We promote the employment of people with severe disabilities and are committed to equal opportunities for them. Applicants with severe disabilities will be given preferential consideration if they have the same qualifications.

Please send your documents (cover letter explaining your motivation, CV, copies of degrees/certificates and references) with reference number 2026_W11_BA as a single pdf-file before November 30, 2026 via e-mail to jobs@dife.de (https://mailto:jobs@dife.de) .

For further information please do not hesitate to contact:

Dr. Ignacio Rebollo Head of Junior Research Group Gut Brain Interactions (GBI) E-Mail: Ignacio.Rebollo@dife.de (https://mailto:Ignacio.Rebollo@dife.de)

We process your application documents for the purpose of carrying out the application procedure in accordance with Art. 6 para. 1 lit. b) GDPR, Art. 88 GDPR. For more information on the collection, processing and use of personal data by the German Institute of Human Nutrition as part of the application process and your rights under data protection law, please contact the Department of Human Resources and Social Services (jobs@dife.de (https://mailto:jobs@dife.de) ).

Bereitgestellt in Kooperation mit der Bundesagentur für Arbeit.