Postdoctoral Researcher in Fly Neuroscience and Robotics

About the role

The Neuroengineering Laboratory at EPFL is looking for a highly motivated Postdoctoral researcher (W/M) to join an ERC-funded project that aims to reverse-engineer insect limb motor control for bioinspired robotics. The project focuses on how neural circuits in the motor system of the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, orchestrate limb movements and autonomous behaviour in complex environments. The precise research topic will be discussed with the successful candidate depending on their background.

Key responsibilities

• Perform microscopy-based neural recordings in behaving flies, computational analysis, and, if interested, neuromechanical simulations or robots driven by connectome-constrained artificial neural networks
• Analyse and publish results
• Build a strong network in the field of research
• Take part in education and supervise PhD and master students

Required profile

• PhD (or nearly completed)
• Background in experimental neuroscience, computational neuroscience and/or robotics
• Strong publication record relative to career stage
• Excellent written and oral communication in English
• Curious, persistent and independent; candidates outside neuroscience are encouraged to apply

Required skills

• Strong computational and analytical skills
• Neural recording and computational analysis

What we offer

• A stimulating, international working environment
• Competitive salary and good working conditions
• State-of-the-art research in one of Europe's most dynamic scientific institutions
• Interaction with internationally renowned experts and a strong team of postdocs and PhD students

Applications are submitted only through the online platform, with a one-page cover letter, a CV with publications and three referee contacts. The contract starts on 1 February 2027, is full-time and fixed-term for up to 5 years.