Applications are invited for a 3-year postdoc position in the Comparative Psychology research group headed by Tobias Kalenscher. We will combine psychopharmacology with fMRI to investigate the role of stress hormones in intergroup conflicts in humans. There is some flexibility regarding research topics, and your own project ideas are also welcome. The position is available from October 2025.
The Comparative Psychology group at Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf investigates economic and social decision making in animals and humans. By combining research on both animals and humans with conceptual tools from psychology, economics, and biology, we take a truly multidisciplinary, comparative approach to understanding 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.
We are looking for a candidate with the following profile:
- PhD degree in neuroscience, psychology or related fields, with a scientific background in human decision-making research
- Strong interest in human social neuroscience and/or neuroeconomics is essential
- Experience in fMRI and behavioral analysis, documented by relevant publications
We expect:
- Aptitude to work independently; the candidate is expected to take a lead role in the human neuroimaging section in the Comparative Psychology group
- The ability to work in a team comprised of human and animal researchers, and the capacity to advise students are a must
- There is a teaching load of 4 hours per week during the spring and fall terms (in English or German)
- The willingness to supervise Bachelor- and Master-projects
- An excellent command of English, and a moderate command of German, or the willingness to learn German
- The applicant is encouraged to apply for own personal funding
We offer:
- Being part of a great, international and interdisciplinary team in a high-quality research environment
- State of the art research facilities
- Interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities world-wide
- Room for academic development and personal growth
- We give you the space to develop and follow your own research ideas within the wider decision-making field
Applications should include a short motivation letter, a CV, a brief statement of research experience and interests, academic achievements and names of at least 2 referees. Please send your application electronically as a single pdf file to Tobias Kalenscher (). Application deadline is May 01, 2025. Interviews will be held in-person or online using Cisco WebEx in May 2025.
We particularly welcome applications from female postdocs. Women of equal aptitude, ability and professional competence will receive particular consideration, unless there are compelling reasons for choosing another applicant. 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.