Project Overview
About the Position
Radboud University invites applications for a PhD position on multisynaptic plasticity in dendrites, based in the Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour. The project investigates how plasticity spreads across multiple synaptic sites on dendrites of hippocampal CA1 neurons, using advanced optical techniques including two-photon glutamate uncaging and genetically encoded biosensors. Understanding these dendritic computation rules is central to explaining how the hippocampus stores and retrieves memories.
The position is a salaried four-year doctoral appointment under the Dutch CAO-NU collective agreement. The doctoral candidate will combine two-photon imaging and uncaging experiments in acute brain slices with electrophysiology, biosensor measurements and quantitative analysis of synaptic integration. The supervising group offers state-of-the-art microscopy infrastructure, close day-to-day supervision and a collaborative environment spanning cellular neuroscience and computational modelling.
Candidate Profile
Applicants hold a master's degree in neuroscience, biology, biophysics or a related field, with hands-on laboratory experience and a drive for technically demanding experiments. Experience with patch-clamp electrophysiology, imaging or Python/MATLAB-based data analysis is an advantage. Applications are submitted through Radboud University's recruitment system with a CV, transcripts, references and a motivation letter; interviews include a discussion of the candidate's research experience.
Highlights
- Salaried four-year PhD in cellular neuroscience at the Donders Institute
- Two-photon glutamate uncaging in hippocampal CA1
- Genetically encoded biosensors and electrophysiology
- Dendritic computation and multisynaptic plasticity
- State-of-the-art microscopy infrastructure
- Application via Radboud University's recruitment system
Funding and Duration
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Award or position | PhD fellowship / salaried position |
| Stipend / salary | EUR 3,204 - EUR 4,051 gross per month (CAO-NU PhD scale) |
| Duration | Four years (PhD employment) |
Eligibility and Requirements
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Applicant eligibility | Worldwide |
| Academic preparation | Master's in neuroscience, biology, biophysics or a related field; imaging or electrophysiology experience welcome |
| Language | English proficiency required |
Application dates
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Recruitment status | Open |
| Deadline | 8 November 2026 |
| Location | Nijmegen, Netherlands |
About Radboud University
Radboud University is a research university in Nijmegen, the Netherlands. It offers undergraduate, master's and doctoral programmes across science, medicine, law, management, humanities and social sciences. Its academic community supports research and teaching across disciplines, with work examining topics such as health, language, society and technology through international scholarly collaboration.
Official details: Read the programme or project information
Application route: Follow the official application instructions
Contact
Questions about this position, eligibility or the application process should be raised through the contact channel given on the official announcement page (see the Official Link section above). Always quote the position reference in your message so the admissions or HR team can route your enquiry quickly.
Important Notes
- Application deadline: 8 November 2026 - late or incomplete applications are normally not considered.
- Listing details were recorded from the official source at the time of publication; always confirm the latest requirements on the official page before applying.
- Prepare the documents listed in the eligibility and application sections before starting the online form - transcripts, CV and references take the longest to collect.
How to Apply
Submit your application through the official page before the deadline: 8 November 2026. Read the eligibility requirements carefully and prepare all requested documents - early applications are strongly recommended for competitive awards.
Open the official application page ↗
Application guides
- How to Email a PhD Supervisor: 7 Templates and Practical Tips
- How to Read a PhD Job Advert: Funding, Eligibility and Application Steps
Official Link
https://www.ru.nl/en/working-at/job-opportunities/phd-position-multisynaptic-plasticity-in-dendrites
Frequently asked questions
Drawn from this listing's own record. Always confirm the details on the official source before applying.
What is the deadline for PhD Position: Multisynaptic Plasticity in Dendrites - Radboud University, Netherlands?
The application deadline is 9 November 2026 (8 November 2026). Applications received after that date are not considered, so treat it as a hard cut-off (Europe/Amsterdam time) and leave time for references and transcripts. Closing time not specified — confirm with the provider before you leave it until the last day: the source names Europe/Amsterdam but gives no clock time.
Is PhD Position: Multisynaptic Plasticity in Dendrites - Radboud University, Netherlands fully funded?
This is a fully funded award: tuition is covered and a living stipend is provided for the duration of the programme. EUR 3,204 - EUR 4,051 gross per month (CAO-NU PhD scale).
Who is eligible to apply for PhD Position: Multisynaptic Plasticity in Dendrites - Radboud University, Netherlands?
This opportunity is open to applicants worldwide. Host-country status is not a requirement, although you must still satisfy the visa rules for Netherlands. Applications are assessed by Radboud University.
How do I apply for PhD Position: Multisynaptic Plasticity in Dendrites - Radboud University, Netherlands?
Applications for PhD Position: Multisynaptic Plasticity in Dendrites - Radboud University, Netherlands are submitted directly to Radboud University through the provider's own application portal — use the Apply button on this page to open it. NextApply does not process applications or charge a fee.
Is an English proficiency test required for PhD Position: Multisynaptic Plasticity in Dendrites - Radboud University, Netherlands?
Yes — an English-language certificate is required for this listing. Check the exact band expected on the official source, since it can differ by programme. Requirements for Netherlands are published by the provider.
What study level does PhD Position: Multisynaptic Plasticity in Dendrites - Radboud University, Netherlands offer?
This listing is offered at PhD level. That describes the qualification on offer, not a credential you must already hold — check the provider's stated entry requirements before applying.
Hosted by
Radboud University
Radboud University is a research university in Nijmegen, the Netherlands. It offers undergraduate, master's and doctoral programmes across science, medicine, law, management, humanities and social sciences. Its academic community supports research and teaching across disciplines, with work examining topics such as health, language, society and technology through international scholarly collaboration.
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