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Faculty of Medicine:
Chair of Social Neuroscience 


In order to fill a fixed-term position in full-time (39,83 hours / week) at the earliest possible date, we are looking for  a

Postdoctoral Researcher (m/f/x)

The Department of Social Neuroscience at the Faculty of Medicine is part of the Research Center One Health Ruhr of the University Alliance Ruhr and investigates the neurobiological mechanisms of social processes in humans. The Ruhr University Bochum offers an excellent scientific environment with the best opportunities for collaboration. The Department of Social Neuroscience uses a variety of techniques including imaging methods (fNIRS, mobile EEG and fMRI), brain stimulation methods (tDCS), psychophysiological and hormonal measurements to investigate the neural substrates of social bonding and the effects of trauma experiences. Additional research areas include the neurocognitive mechanisms underlying social touch and work in metascience. This is a qualifying position under the Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz (WissZeitVG) with the possibility of developing new research foci (after doctorate) or conducting own research projects in preparation for a habilitation. The research should align with the Department’s areas of focus. The position is initially to be filled for a period of 2 years.

Scope: full-time
Duration: fixed-term, 2 years
Start: at the earliest possible date
Apply by:
2026-01-08

Your tasks:

  • Participation in research projects according to the focus of the department
  • Conducting experimental studies (design studies, conduct data analysis, etc.)
  • Presentation of the results at scientific conferences
  • Publication of the results in English-language journals
  • Co-supervision of research assistants and student theses
  • Teaching duties in accordance with the teaching obligations of the state of North Rhine-Westphalia

Your profile:

  • PhD in psychology, neuroscience, or a related field (at least thesis submitted)
  • High level of commitment and the ability to work independently
  • Very good knowledge of English
  • Programming skills (Matlab, R, etc.)
  • Interest in a scientific career
  • Demonstrated expertise in one or more of the relevant research methods (fMRI, fNIRS, EEG, psychophysiology, or tDCS)
  • Knowledge of German is an advantage, but not mandatory

We offer:

    Challenging and varied tasks with a high level of independence, Employment at one of the largest universities in Germany within the University Alliance Ruhr, A qualified on-boarding and induction process, Collaboration in a committed and appreciative team, Extensive training and professional development opportunities

    Further information:

    Please submit a cover letter, CV (with publication list), and contact details of two referees as a single PDF.

    Further information can be found at https://oeffentlicher-dienst.info/ (in German).

    The place of work is Ruhr University Bochum.

    The position is salaried and based on the collective agreement of the Länder (TV-L). If the personal and collective agreement requirements are met, the employee will receive pay grade E13 TV-L. RUB sees itself as a university with an international presence. The campus languages are German and English. Competence in at least one of the two languages and the willingness to learn the other are a prerequisite. RUB provides corresponding free courses for employees. German language courses are offered by the University Language Center (ZFA) in the field of German as a Foreign Language (DaF). The Staff Council has the right to participate in all selection interviews. At the request of a candidate (m/f/x), it will ensure its participation in the entire procedure. Please contact wpr@rub.de.

    The Ruhr-Universität Bochum is one of Germany’s leading research universities, addressing the whole range of academic disciplines. A highly dynamic setting enables researchers and students to work across the traditional boundaries of academic subjects and faculties. To create knowledge networks within and beyond the university is Ruhr-Universität Bochum’s declared aim.


    The Ruhr-Universität Bochum stands for diversity and equal opportunities. For this reason, we favour a working environment composed of heterogeneous teams, and seek to promote the careers of individuals who are underrepresented in our respective professional areas. The Ruhr-Universität Bochum expressly requests job applications from women. In areas in which they are underrepresented they will be given preference in the case of equivalent qualifications with male candidates. Applications from individuals with disabilities are most welcome.

    Contact persons for further information:

    Prof. Dr. Dirk Scheele , Tel.: +49 234 32 28696
    Frau Iman Omeirat , Tel.: +49 234 32 15635

    Travel costs, accommodation costs and loss of earnings or other application costs for job interviews can unfortunately not be reimbursed.

    We look forward to receiving your application via our online application portal by 2026-01-08. Please make sure to mention the reference number ANR 5121.

    Online application