Fully-funded Postdoc Position in Cognitive and Computational Neuroscience (MPI-CBS, Germany): Complete Application Guide

Introduction

The Fully-funded Postdoc Position in Cognitive and Computational Neuroscience at MPI-CBS, Germany is an outstanding opportunity for early-career researchers who want to work at the forefront of brain science. Hosted by the Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences (MPI-CBS) in Leipzig, this fully funded position combines cognitive neuroscience, computational modelling, and advanced neuroimaging in a highly collaborative international environment.

For researchers interested in memory, perception, machine learning, and computational neuroscience, this position offers access to world-class facilities and experienced mentors. Moreover, it provides an excellent platform for building an independent research career. This guide explains the research focus, eligibility requirements, employment benefits, and application process while offering practical advice to help you prepare a competitive application.

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What Is the Fully-funded Postdoc Position in Cognitive and Computational Neuroscience?

The position is a four-year fully funded postdoctoral appointment in the Department of Psychology at the Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences (MPI-CBS) in Leipzig, Germany. Successful candidates join the research group led by Professor Christian Doeller, one of the world’s leading researchers in cognitive neuroscience.

The project investigates the functions of the perirhinal cortex, an important brain region involved in memory, perception, semantic knowledge, and concept learning. Researchers combine experimental neuroscience with computational approaches to better understand how the brain represents and organizes complex information.

Unlike many traditional postdoctoral positions, this role integrates several disciplines, including cognitive neuroscience, computational modelling, psychology, artificial intelligence, and advanced neuroimaging. As a result, researchers gain broad scientific experience while contributing to internationally recognized research.

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Why This Postdoctoral Opportunity Stands Out

Many postdoctoral positions focus on narrow research questions. In contrast, this opportunity encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and scientific innovation.

Research at the Frontiers of Neuroscience

The project explores how the human brain builds structured representations that support learning, memory, perception, and decision-making. Researchers investigate whether the perirhinal cortex performs common computational functions across different cognitive domains.

Consequently, the work contributes to fundamental neuroscience while also improving understanding of neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease.

International Scientific Environment

MPI-CBS attracts researchers from around the world. Fellows collaborate with neuroscientists, psychologists, computer scientists, physicists, and clinicians in a supportive research culture.

Furthermore, the project involves collaboration with Heidelberg University, SRH University Heidelberg, and international partners, providing valuable networking opportunities.

State-of-the-Art Research Facilities

Researchers gain access to exceptional scientific infrastructure, including:

• • Four 3 Tesla MRI scanners

  • One high-resolution 7 Tesla MRI scanner

  • Magnetoencephalography (MEG)

  • Electroencephalography (EEG)

  • Virtual Reality laboratories

  • Eye-tracking facilities

  • Psychophysics laboratories

  • Clinical collaborations with Leipzig University Hospital

These resources allow researchers to investigate complex brain functions using multiple complementary methods.

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Research Focus and Scientific Objectives

The research programme examines how the perirhinal cortex contributes to several important cognitive processes.

Key research themes include:

• • Memory formation

  • Familiarity-based recognition

  • Semantic integration

  • Concept learning

  • Object perception

  • Decision-making

  • Associative representations

Researchers will combine high-resolution 7 Tesla functional MRI, multivariate pattern analysis (MVPA), representational similarity analysis (RSA), computational modelling, and behavioural experiments.

In addition, the project aims to develop unified computational models that explain how the perirhinal cortex supports diverse cognitive functions.

Because computational neuroscience increasingly combines artificial intelligence with brain science, experience gained during this fellowship is highly valuable for both academic and industry careers.

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Who Should Apply?

This position is designed for talented early-career researchers who enjoy interdisciplinary scientific research.

Suitable applicants typically have backgrounds in:

• • Cognitive Neuroscience

  • Psychology

  • Computer Science

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  • Biology

  • Physics

  • Computational Neuroscience

  • Biomedical Engineering

  • Artificial Intelligence

  • Related quantitative disciplines

Applicants should demonstrate scientific curiosity, strong analytical skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively within international research teams.

For example, a researcher who has developed computational models of memory or analysed neuroimaging datasets during doctoral studies would possess relevant experience for this position.

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Eligibility Requirements

Candidates should possess a strong academic background together with practical research experience.

Essential qualifications generally include:

• • A completed PhD in cognitive neuroscience, psychology, biology, computer science, physics, or a closely related field.

  • Excellent academic achievements demonstrated through publications or equivalent research output.

  • Strong programming skills.

  • Experience with multivariate neuroimaging analysis techniques.

  • Interest in computational modelling.

  • Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to collaborative research.

In addition, applicants should communicate effectively in English because the institute operates within an international scientific community.

Preferred Qualifications

Several additional skills strengthen an application.

Preferred experience includes:

• • Multivariate Pattern Analysis (MVPA)

  • Representational Similarity Analysis (RSA)

  • Pattern classification methods

  • Computational modelling

  • High-resolution neuroimaging

  • 7 Tesla MRI research

  • Machine learning techniques

  • Knowledge of medial temporal lobe anatomy

  • Scientific programming using Python, MATLAB, or related languages

Researchers with experience integrating computational modelling and experimental neuroscience may be particularly competitive.

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Career Development Opportunities

Beyond conducting research, successful postdoctoral fellows receive extensive professional support.

The institute encourages researchers to develop independent research directions while collaborating with internationally recognized scientists. Fellows also gain opportunities to co-supervise undergraduate and doctoral students, present findings at major international conferences, and participate in specialized workshops focused on scientific leadership and career development.

These experiences strengthen both academic and non-academic career prospects. Researchers interested in faculty positions, research institutes, healthcare innovation, or artificial intelligence will benefit from the interdisciplinary expertise developed during the fellowship.

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Funding, Employment Benefits, and Research Environment

The Fully-funded Postdoc Position in Cognitive and Computational Neuroscience offers much more than financial support. Successful candidates join one of Europe’s leading neuroscience institutes while working in an environment designed to foster scientific independence and collaboration.

The appointment is a fully funded full-time research position for four years, with the possibility of a one-year extension depending on project needs and funding availability. Employment follows the German public sector collective agreement (TVöD), which includes a competitive salary, comprehensive social security coverage, paid annual leave, pension contributions, and health insurance. In addition, international researchers receive administrative support for relocation and settling into Germany.

Researchers also benefit from:

• • Access to cutting-edge MRI, MEG, EEG, and behavioural laboratories

  • Collaboration with internationally recognized neuroscientists

  • Opportunities to attend international conferences and workshops

  • Professional mentoring and career development

  • An inclusive and diverse international research environment

  • Strong computational and data-analysis infrastructure

These resources allow postdoctoral researchers to focus on high-quality science while building an internationally competitive research profile.

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How to Apply for the Fully-funded Postdoc Position

Preparing a strong application takes time. Therefore, candidates should begin several weeks before the application deadline.

Step 1: Study the Official Vacancy

Read the official position description carefully. Pay close attention to the research objectives, required qualifications, and requested application documents.

Step 2: Prepare Your Documents

Applicants typically need:

• • Curriculum Vitae (CV)

  • Cover letter

  • Research statement

  • Publication list

  • Copies of academic degrees

  • Contact information for academic referees

  • Additional supporting documents requested by the institute

Always tailor your application to demonstrate how your research experience matches the advertised project.

Step 3: Highlight Relevant Research Experience

Competitive applicants clearly describe:

• • Neuroimaging research

  • Computational modelling projects

  • Programming experience

  • Published scientific work

  • International collaborations

  • Independent research achievements

Concrete examples often leave a stronger impression than simply listing technical skills.

Step 4: Submit Before the Deadline

Applications must be submitted through the official Max Planck recruitment portal before the published deadline. If the institute has not announced a future deadline, applicants should monitor the official vacancy page regularly for updates. 

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Expert Tips for a Stronger Application

Competition for Max Planck postdoctoral positions is intense. However, careful preparation can improve your application significantly.

Consider these practical recommendations:

• • Tailor every section of your cover letter.

  • Explain how your previous research aligns with the advertised project.

  • Highlight interdisciplinary experience.

  • Demonstrate proficiency in scientific programming.

  • Showcase published papers or preprints.

  • Ask experienced researchers to review your application.

  • Contact the principal investigator only with thoughtful, well-prepared questions.

For example, a candidate who combines behavioural experiments with computational modelling and neuroimaging demonstrates exactly the interdisciplinary profile sought by many neuroscience research groups.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even excellent researchers sometimes weaken otherwise strong applications.

Avoid these common errors:

• • Using a generic cover letter.

  • Ignoring required qualifications.

  • Describing skills without research examples.

  • Submitting incomplete documents.

  • Missing the application deadline.

  • Overlooking proofreading.

A clear, concise, and well-organized application reflects professionalism and scientific maturity.

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Summary Table

Feature	Details
Program Name	Fully-funded Postdoc Position in Cognitive and Computational Neuroscience
Host Country	Germany
Host Institution	Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences (MPI-CBS)
Funding Organization	Max Planck Society
Duration	4 years (possible extension subject to funding)
Study Mode	Full-time research position
Eligibility	PhD in Cognitive Neuroscience, Psychology, Biology, Computer Science, Physics, or related field
Financial Support	Competitive salary under TVöD, social security, health insurance, pension, paid leave, research infrastructure
Research Areas	Cognitive Neuroscience, Computational Neuroscience, Memory, Neuroimaging, Computational Modelling, Psychology
Deadline	August 17, 2026
Official Website	Click here

Conclusion

The Fully-funded Postdoc Position in Cognitive and Computational Neuroscience at MPI-CBS, Germany represents an exceptional opportunity for researchers seeking to advance their careers in brain science. Its combination of interdisciplinary research, generous funding, outstanding facilities, and international collaboration creates an ideal environment for scientific growth.

If your background matches cognitive neuroscience, computational modelling, or neuroimaging, begin preparing your application early. Carefully review the official program guidelines, tailor every application document, and demonstrate how your expertise aligns with the research objectives. A well-prepared application can help you stand out in this highly competitive recruitment process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)