We are seeking a motivated PhD candidate to join the Comparative Psychology research group led by Tobias Kalenscher at the Institute of Experimental Psychology, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf.
The position is funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG) and is available from October 2026 for up to four years.
The project investigates the role of the rat anterior cingulate cortex in representing the purchasing value of rewards during economic decision-making. In particular, it examines how dopaminergic mechanisms contribute to the effects of price inflation and wage adjustments on demand elasticity in rats. Using a rodent model of consumer choice (van Wingerden et al., 2015; Hu et al., 2021), the project combines optogenetic manipulation with behavioral and neuroeconomic analyses to better understand the neural mechanisms underlying value-based decisions.
The Comparative Psychology group at Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf investigates economic and social decision making in animals and humans. By integrating approaches from psychology, economics, and biology, we pursue a multidisciplinary and comparative research program aimed at uncovering the behavioral and neural foundations of decision-making. The Comparative Psychology group is part of the Institute of Experimental Psychology – a young and dynamic research department with a focus on social, cognitive and biological psychology.
Requirements
• Master’s degree (or equivalent) in neuroscience, psychology, or a related field
• Experience with animal research (required)
• Experience with optogenetics is an advantage
• Strong interest in decision-making, economics and/or neuroeconomics
• Solid background in statistics and experience with statistical software (e.g., R, SPSS, MATLAB)
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Excellent command of English; German language skills are not necessary, but the willingness to learn German is expected
Application
Please submit the following documents as a single PDF file:
• A short motivation letter
• Curriculum vitae
• Brief statement of research experience and interests
• Academic transcripts and achievements
• Contact details of at least two referees.
Applications should be sent by email to Tobias Kalenscher ().
Application deadline: May 17, 2026
Interviews: June 2026
Equal opportunity
Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf is committed to equal opportunity and diversity. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, nationality, ethnic or social background, religion, disability, age, or sexual orientation.
Heinrich-Heine University lives the principle „excellence through diversity“. HHU has signed the „Charta der Vielfalt (charta of diversity)“ and successfully participated in the audit „Shaping Diversity“ of the Stifterverband. HHU is certified as family-friendly and aims to promote its employees’ diversity. Applications from suitably qualified disabled persons are encouraged.