Project Overview
About the Position
Radboud University invites applications for a PhD position on transcranial ultrasound stimulation (TUS) and computational affective neuroscience, funded by the ERC HEART2ADAPT project. The doctoral project uses low-intensity focused ultrasound to modulate deep brain circuits - including the amygdala, striatum and dorsal anterior cingulate cortex - and combines these experiments with computational models of affective processing. The goal is to understand how non-invasive stimulation of deep affective circuits can change emotional and motivational states relevant to mental health.
The position is a salaried four-year doctoral appointment under the Dutch CAO-NU collective agreement, based in the Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour at Nijmegen, one of Europe's leading cognitive neuroscience environments. The doctoral candidate will run stimulation experiments, acquire and analyse neuroimaging and behavioural data, and develop computational models linking stimulation targets to affective outcomes, working within an ERC-funded team with dedicated technical support.
Candidate Profile
Applicants hold a master's degree in neuroscience, psychology, biomedical engineering or a related field, with strong programming and data-analysis skills. Experience with neuroimaging, brain stimulation, computational modelling or psychophysiology is an advantage. Applications are submitted through Radboud University's online recruitment system with a CV, transcripts, references and a motivation letter, and shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews.
Highlights
- ERC HEART2ADAPT-funded four-year PhD position
- Transcranial ultrasound stimulation of deep brain circuits
- Amygdala, striatum and dACC affective neuroscience
- Computational modelling of stimulation effects
- Donders Institute research environment in Nijmegen
- Salaried employment under the CAO-NU agreement
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, psychology, biomedical engineering or a related field; programming skills expected |
| Language | English proficiency required |
Application dates
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Recruitment status | Open |
| Deadline | 9 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: 9 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: 9 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 Ask for a Recommendation Letter: Emails and Preparation
- SOP, Personal Statement or Research Proposal: What Each Document Does
Official Link
https://www.ru.nl/en/working-at/job-opportunities/phd-position-transcranial-ultrasound-stimulation-and-computational-affective-neuroscience
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: Transcranial Ultrasound Stimulation and Computational Affective Neuroscience (ERC HEART2ADAPT) - Radboud University, Netherlands?
The application deadline is 10 November 2026 (9 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: Transcranial Ultrasound Stimulation and Computational Affective Neuroscience (ERC HEART2ADAPT) - 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: Transcranial Ultrasound Stimulation and Computational Affective Neuroscience (ERC HEART2ADAPT) - 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: Transcranial Ultrasound Stimulation and Computational Affective Neuroscience (ERC HEART2ADAPT) - Radboud University, Netherlands?
Applications for PhD Position: Transcranial Ultrasound Stimulation and Computational Affective Neuroscience (ERC HEART2ADAPT) - 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: Transcranial Ultrasound Stimulation and Computational Affective Neuroscience (ERC HEART2ADAPT) - 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: Transcranial Ultrasound Stimulation and Computational Affective Neuroscience (ERC HEART2ADAPT) - 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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