PhD student

Psychiatric University Hospital Zurich

60 %

At the Psychiatric University Hospital Zurich, we are looking for a PhD student as part of a Clinical Research Priority Program (CRPP) “Synapse, Trauma & Addiction” (STA). Mission of this CRPP is to investigate the molecular basis of trauma and drug memories, identify possible treatments for trauma and substance use disorders to advance clinical interventions. You will be based at the Psychiatric University Hospital Zurich (Prof. Birgit Kleim and Prof. Boris Quednow).

The PhD work will cover experimental trauma and drug memory models and modulation of trauma and drug-related intrusive memories. Basic science findings on synaptic plasticity will be translated for clinical application and the work will thus encompass a clinical study in PTSD and substance use patients.

We are looking for a highly motivated, communicative individual, who wishes to pursue a career in clinical or biological psychology, psychiatry, or clinical neuroscience. The position requires a strong interest in these fields, motivation to acquire experimental and clinical skills, ability to do team research in a structured environment, and excellent communication qualities to interact with patients. The candidate will have experience in, or be motivated to learn, data analysis in R. Previous experience in experimental paradigms, data analysis, or programming, would be useful. Clinical experience with PTSD and/or substance use patients is an advantage, as is knowledge of magnetic resonance imaging techniques. Applicants should have an MSc in psychology, medicine, or neuroscience. Fluent English and German is mandatory.

We offer an interdisciplinary setting with unique state-of-the-art methodologies in well- equipped research labs. There will be ample opportunities to collaborate between the different labs, including the possibility to also work at the animal facilities and work on animal models in parallel to human clinical models. Students attend joint lab meetings, seminars and journal club discussions between the labs (all based at the University of Zurich). The UZH has dedicated graduate schools in which PhDs are trained in modern research and analysis techniques, as well as communication and teaching skills.

Lenggstrasse 31, Zürich, Switzerland

Employment start date to be mutually agreed, earliest February 2023. Application deadline: Till de position is filled. Enclosures: cover letter; statement of research interest; CV with publication list; BA/MSc certificates with course grades; reference letters or contacts of two referees.