Scholarship: Fully-funded
Degree: Bachelor/Master/Ph.D
Nationality: International Students
Location: USA
Application deadlines: Open
Scholarship Description:
Recruitment at the Helsinki University Neuroscience Center
The Li Kaizhen research group is seeking 2 PhD students and 1 postdoctoral researcher to explore cutting-edge scientific questions related to emotional memory and neural circuit regulation. The lab focuses on understanding the interaction between neural microcircuits and glial cells in associative learning and emotional behavior, as well as developing translational medical strategies to treat neurodegenerative and mental disorders by remodeling emotional microcircuits with novel drugs or neuromodulation.
About the Researcher:
Li Kaizhen, Researcher and PhD Supervisor, earned his doctorate from the University of Tübingen in 2018 and conducted postdoctoral research at the University of Bern, where he served as an assistant researcher and young research group leader. He has received funding from the Swiss National Science Foundation and Novartis Medical Research Fund, leading three young investigator projects and contributing to four major EU, German, and Swiss scientific projects. In 2025, he will receive significant project support to establish a systems neuroscience laboratory at the Helsinki University Neuroscience Center.
Laboratory Facilities:
The lab is equipped with advanced two-photon microscopy, mini calcium imaging microscopy, optogenetics, and animal behavior testing platforms. It is also in the process of acquiring a three-photon microscope, becoming one of the few labs globally capable of non-invasive imaging in deep brain regions. Shared resources include a multi-channel electrophysiology recording system and a neural data supercomputing center.
University Overview:
Founded in 1640, Helsinki University is one of the oldest and largest universities in Finland and Europe, dedicated to life sciences research. The Neuroscience Center, part of the Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE), is internationally recognized for its work in neural development, synaptic plasticity mechanisms, circuit function, and systems neuroscience. The center emphasizes groundbreaking basic science research and aims to translate findings into applications for the treatment and diagnosis of brain diseases.
Available Subjects:
- PhD Students (2 Positions)：Candidates should have or be about to obtain a Master’s degree in life sciences, neurobiology, or a related field, with a strong interest in neuroscience and brain research. Good English communication skills are required. Familiarity with techniques such as neural circuit research, calcium imaging, optogenetics, and immunohistochemistry is preferred.
- Postdoctoral Researcher (1 Position)： Candidates should have or be about to obtain a PhD in neurobiology or a related field, with expertise in one or more of the following techniques: calcium imaging and signal analysis, two-photon microscopy, electrophysiology, optogenetics, fiberoptic recording, and mini microscopy. Strong English writing and speaking skills, independent research capabilities, and a commitment to scientific integrity and teamwork are essential.
Eligibility criteria:
- Duration: 4 years
- Salary: Based on Helsinki University’s research staff salary standards
- Benefits: Comprehensive medical and social insurance, family benefits, paid leave, and summer bonuses
Application Procedure:
Please combine your motivation letter, CV, and contact information for 2-3 references into a single PDF file and send it to [email protected].
Email Subject: PhD/Postdoctoral Application + [Your Name]
Application materials will be kept strictly confidential. The application deadline is November 30, 2025. Start date is negotiable.