Postdoctoral fellow in Systems Neurophysiology

The Neurobiology of Social Communication Lab, led by Steffen Hage at the University of Tübingen, invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow (m/f/d; E13 TVöD, 100%, 2 years) with an interest in the neural mechanisms underlying vocal communication. The project focuses on how audio-vocal integration shapes vocal production and perception, and how cognitive and motivational processes contribute to these behaviors. We address these questions using a combination of psychophysical, neuroethological, neurophysiological, and computational approaches. 

This position is suited for researchers who have completed or are close to completing a PhD in a relevant discipline, such as neurobiology, cognitive neuroscience, psychology, or bioengineering. We are looking for a self-motivated and reliable candidate with strong analytical and critical thinking skills, and a solid background in neurophysiology, neuroethology, computational neuroscience, or related fields. Experience in areas such as in vivo electrophysiology in awake, behaving animals, telemetric recording techniques, signal processing, computational modeling, and machine learning is highly desirable. The ideal candidate will have excellent programming skills, experience with advanced data analysis, and a strong publication record. The working language is English; proficiency in German is not required.

What we offer: 

The position, initially limited to two years with the possibility of extension, is part of the newly established DFG research unit “Neural Basis of Vocal Communication” (FOR 5768). This collaborative initiative, spanning four research sites, investigates how vocal communication is produced, coordinated, and learned across vertebrate species by mapping and comparing the underlying neural networks. Combining behavioral studies, neurophysiological recordings, and computational modeling, we aim to uncover shared principles as well as species-specific adaptations of vocal communication. The position will be supervised by Steffen Hage and is based at the Department of Otolaryngology at the University of Tübingen and the Werner Reichardt Centre for Integrative Neuroscience. There are no formal teaching duties, allowing full flexibility to focus on research, alongside opportunities to mentor and collaborate with PhD and MSc students on related topics. You will join a collaborative and supportive research environment that encourages the open exchange of ideas. We value a strong team spirit, intellectual curiosity, and a positive, inclusive approach to working with colleagues from diverse cultural backgrounds.

How to apply: 

For applications or informal inquiries, please contact Steffen Hage by email (steffen.hage@uni-tuebingen.de). To apply formally, please submit a single PDF including a motivation letter (with a brief statement of your research experience and interests), your CV, and the contact details of two referees. The University of Tübingen is an equal opportunities employer. We particularly encourage applications from qualified women; applications from candidates with disabilities will be given preference where qualifications are equivalent. For full consideration, please submit your application by June 15, 2026. 

Applications will continue to be reviewed until the position is filled.