PhD research fellow/Researcher

Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital / GliaLab, University of Oslo    Researcher and/or PhD position (fulltime).

Applications are invited for one position as Researcher ("Forsker") or PhD research fellow ("Stipendiat") in the project "AI-Driven Optogenetic Closed-Loop Seizure Control"- A 2-photon-imaging project, funded by Helse Sør-Øst (Project 340682).

The project extends our group's ongoing work on the preceding Helse Sør-Øst project (2024056, 2024-2026), and builds on our recent findings on cortical spreading depolarization (CSD) as a possible "brake" on epileptic seizures (Enger & Heuser, Front Netw Physiol 2024; Heuser et al., Cereb Cortex 2018), and on our established two-photon imaging methodology for studying astrocytic and vascular dynamics (Bojarskaite et al., Nat Commun 2023). The aim is to develop and test an AI-driven, closed-loop system that detects seizure activity in real time and triggers an optogenetic intervention (CSD or direct neuronal inhibition) with the goal of a novel, targeted treatment approach for epilepsy.

The application must contain:
- Cover letter with statement of motivation, research interests, and which track (Researcher/PhD fellow) you are applying for
- CV (summarizing education, positions and academic work)
- Copies of educational certificates (academic transcripts only; PhD diploma or confirmation of imminent completion for Researcher applicants)
- Complete list of publications and academic works
- List of reference persons: 2-3 references (name, relation to candidate, e-mail and phone number)
- Deadline for application: October 15th, 2026
- Start: November 1st, 2026, later start can be possible depending on circumstances
- Position duration: 3 years (through October 31st, 2029)
- Contact: Research group leader Kjell Heuser, Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital HF, dr.heuser@gmail.com, or +47 92414568, and/or Associate Professor Rune Enger, GliaLab, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, rune.enger@medisin.uio.no, or +47 90534262

The project comprises:

- Two-photon imaging: In vivo two-photon imaging of astrocytes and neurons in awake, head-fixed mice through chronic cranial windows, building on our established methodology for studying cortical and hippocampal network activity. 

- Consolidating the conditional Kir4.1 knockout hippocampal model combined with wireless EEG telemetry.

- High-density electrophysiology (Neuropixels 2.0) and miniaturized two-photon imaging (Mini2P) of astrocytes and neurons through chronic hippocampal windows, to test the role of CSD in seizure termination.

- Development of an AI-based seizure-detection algorithm driving automated, closed-loop optogenetic stimulation.

The successful candidate will be based at GliaLab, Letten Centre, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo (https://glialab.no), working in close collaboration with the Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital. 
Please indicate in your application which track you are applying for (Researcher or PhD fellow), or whether you wish to be considered for either, depending on your qualifications.

Qualifications

     Requirements if hired as PhD fellow (100% position):

• Completed Master's degree (or equivalent) in neuroscience, medicine, biology, biomedicine, or a related field
• Documented experience with in vivo rodent experimental work 
• Highly motivated and accurate candidate
• Good problem-solving skills
• Ability to work both independently and as an integrated member of a multidisciplinary team
• Good communication skills and teaching abilities
• Fluent oral and written communication skills in English
  
  
  Requirements if hired as Researcher (minimum 50% position):

• Completed PhD (or submitted thesis with imminent defense) in neuroscience, medicine, biology, biomedicine, or a related field
• Documented experience with in vivo rodent microsurgeries, as well as in vivo electrophysiology and/or imaging
• FELASA-equivalent certification in laboratory animal science (or willingness to obtain this) is required; documented prior hands-on animal experimental experience will be prioritized.
• Track record of first-author publication(s) in the field
• Ability to co-supervise PhD students/master students and contribute to project leadership
• Fluent oral and written communication skills in English
  
  
  The following skills will be considered beneficial but are not obligatory:

• Experience with in vivo two-photon microscopy and/or high-density electrophysiology (e.g., Neuropixels)
• Experience with rodent seizure/epilepsy models
• Experience with optogenetics
• Programming skills (Python/MATLAB), especially relevant for machine-learning/AI seizure-detection work
• Knowledge of statistical methods, including regression models or machine learning
• Experience with viral vector-based conditional knockout strategies (Cre-lox)
  

Personal qualities

Personal qualities and team-working abilities will be an important part of the assessment.

We offer

• A workplace in the heart of Oslo, with rich opportunities for culture and outdoor activities
• A safe workplace with strong support from colleagues
• Excellent opportunities for professional and personal development
• Contribution to an important societal mission
• Training programs and courses, fostering the development of specialized skills
• Employment in an IA-certified company with pension scheme and insurance
• Salary in accordance with collective agreements for a Researcher/PhD position

Contacts

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