Project 3: Motor imagery neurofeedback training at home for upper-limb motor recovery in stroke and associated changes in cortical motor-prefrontal functional connectivity

application deadline extended 07.01.2025 
starting date March 2025 for an initially limited period of 3 years.

Main PI and collaborators: Kranczioch, Thiel, Grefkes, Witt

Neurofeedback focusing on motor and premotor brain areas can provide an effective intervention for improving motor function in stroke. An ongoing challenge is the implementation and validation of the still mainly lab-based interventions outside the lab. This PhD project aims to contribute to addressing this challenge by combining home-based EEG neurofeedback training in stroke patients with comprehensive pre- and postintervention functional, behavioral and brain imaging (fMRI, EEG) assessments. Analysis of brain imaging data will explore activity in networks and brain regions beyond motor and premotor brain areas. Of particular interest to the project will be the dorso-lateral prefrontal cortex and cortical motor/premotor - dorso-lateral prefrontal functional connectivity.

Applicants should hold an academic university degree (master or equivalent) in psychology, cognitive science, neuroscience or a related discipline. Prior experience with analysis of neuroimaging/neurophysiological data and solid programming skills (e.g. Matlab, Python) are required. Prior experience in the domain of functional connectivity is an advantage. As candidates are expected to interact on a regular basis with stroke survivors, proficiency in German is essential (at least B2). Workplace is Oldenburg.

Project 19: Comparing transcranial alternating current stimulation with EEG neurofeedback

application deadline extended 31.12.2024 
starting as soon as possible for an initially limited period of 3 years.

Main PI and collaborators: Herrmann, Kranczioch

Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation (tACS) is a non-invasive method to brain oscillations and cognitive and motor functions. Its feasibility and safety have been demonstrated in human studies. EEG neurofeedback is another approach to modulate brain oscillations. It is hitherto unknown whether both methods work equally well in all subjects. Thus, the PhD project will compare the two methods regarding their ability to modulate EEG oscillations and – in turn – motor performance.

Applicants should hold (or hold at the date of employment) an academic university degree (Master or equivalent) in psychology, neuroscience or a related discipline. Prior experience with EEG-neurofeedback, or brain stimulation is required. Experience with programming and advanced data analysis, including software skills (e.g., R, Matlab), are desirable. Workplace is Oldenburg. 

We offer:

• Payment in accordance with collective bargaining law (special annual payment, company pension scheme, asset-related benefits) incl. 30 days annual leave
• Option for 4-year funding to complete the PhD
• Support and guidance during your induction phase
• A family-friendly environment with flexible working hours (flexitime) and the possibility of pro-rata mobile work
• Benefits from the company's health promotion programme
• An extensive free further education programme as well as our own scientific promotion of young academics (https://uol.de/en/school6/earlycareer)

The University of Oldenburg aims to increase the proportion of women in the academic field. Therefore, women are strongly encouraged to apply. According to § 21 para. 3 NHG, female applicants should be given preferential consideration if their qualifications are equivalent. Applicants with disabilities are given preference in the event of equal suitability.

Please send your electronic application (as one single pdf file) including a cover letter, CV, publication list (if applicable), list of two potential referees, and copies of certificates of academic grades to the RTG Office . Please also indicate which of the above project(s) you are applying for. For general questions contact .