Open PhD position (3 years, 65%, extendable) at the Department of Systems Neuroscience, Hamburg We seek outstanding applicants whose research interests lie at the intersection of metabolism, psychology and neuroscience and who are interested in studying brain mechanisms underlying homeostatic and hedonic aspects of ingestive behavior. The position is located within the research group Lifespan Neuroscience (head: Dr. Stefanie Brassen). Particular interests of our group are the neural underpinnings of pleasure and motivation systems during food-related decision making, emotion regulation and self-control, and the role of hormones (e.g. central insulin) in such decisions. A special focus is placed on the modifiability of these systems (e.g. by dietary intervention) and age-related changes. Preferred methodology is fMRI and DTI, in particular applying innovative techniques such as representational similarity analysis (RSA), dynamic causal modeling (DCM) and probabilistic tractography. Experience with these techniques is a definite plus, programming skills (e.g. Matlab) are mandatory. Strong interests in the field of neuroimaging and aging research are valuable. The Department of Systems Neuroscience (head: Prof. Christian Büchel) provides an excellent multidisciplinary and highly interactive neuroimaging environment with its own physics, psychology and clinical neuroscience groups as well as a research dedicated 3T MR scanner (PRISMA), EEG- and eyetracking laboratory. The institute hosts an international graduate school that offers a comprehensive program covering all areas of neuroscience and provides PhD students with an excellent research environment. Candidates should submit a CV and brief statement of research interest by e-mail to Dr. Stefanie Brassen (sbrassen@uke.de). Informal inquiries about the position can also be addressed to S. Brassen. Applications will be considered until the position is filled.