Exploring Brain Avalanches in Neurostimulation

The Foundation for Research on Information Technologies in Society (IT’IS), an independent, nonprofit research organization closely associated with the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) Zurich, is currently seeking applicants for the post as

Self-organized criticality (SOC) – a sensitive state wherein minor perturbations can trigger significant outcomes – is hypothesized to play an important role in shaping both the brain’s intrinsic dynamics and its response to stimulation. We are seeking a motivated and curious Master’s student to investigate the related concept of “avalanches”, a phenomenon that describes cascades of action potentials in groups of neurons, and its implications for functional synchronization between brain regions in the presence and absence of neurostimulation.

This cutting-edge research will lay the foundation for the development of advanced, closed-loop brain stimulation technologies that enhance clinical therapies for neurological disorders. Your role will involve applying computational methods that capture brain avalanche dynamics under various stimulation protocols. You will analyze how these cascades of neural activity propagate through brain networks, exploring the implications for neural plasticity and the homeostatic maintenance of SOC.

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Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Direct applications are preferred; applications submitted via recruitment agencies are discouraged. Please note that incomplete applications will be disregarded.

Please send your application documents (in English) consisting of motivational letter, tailored CV (max. 2 pages), diplomas, transcripts (with grades), work certificates and/or reference letters (if available) to:

Zurich43, Charlotte Roberts, Zeughausstrasse 43, 8004 Zurich, Switzerland, +41 44 245 96 96, E-Mail schreiben

Informal inquiries are welcome and should be directed to Dr. Taylor Newton.