Postdoctoral Research Position

The German Primate Center (DPZ) - Leibniz Institute for Primate Research in Göttingen conducts basic research in primate biology, molecular biomedicine and neuroscience. It maintains four field stations and is a competence and reference center for research on and with primates. The DPZ is one of the 96 research and infrastructure facilities of the Leibniz Association. The Functional Imaging Laboratory at the German Primate Center (Deutsches Primatenzentrum, DPZ) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher to join an exciting, third-party funded research project at the interface of neuroscience, cardiology, and magnetic resonance imaging.

We are in search of

Postdoctoral Research Position (m/f/d) – Advanced MRI of Heart–Brain Interactions

Bridging Brain and Heart: Neuro-Cardiovascular Imaging Across Species

The position is suitable for part-time work.

About the Project

The project aims to unravel complex interactions between the brain and the cardiovascular system using advanced MRI methodologies. The focus is on across-organ imaging, ranging from non-human primate (NHP) models to human applications.

You will contribute to the development and application of state-of-the-art MRI techniques to assess functional, metabolic, and structural parameters of both brain and heart. Innovative imaging strategies will be implemented to enable simultaneous or temporally coordinated multi-organ measurements. Key methodological aspects include:

• ECG- and EEG-guided MRI acquisition for precise synchronization of brain and cardiac imaging
• Real-time, self-gated and predictive gating approaches to reduce motion artefacts and enhance physiological accuracy
• Physiology-driven and quantitative MRI approaches for integrated assessment of brain and cardiovascular function
• Development of cross-organ MRI protocols and quantitative biomarkers, transferable from animal models to human studies

The project is embedded within the German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), one of the eight German Centers for Health Research funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), and contributes to the Quantitative Imaging Alliance within the DZHK.

Your Profile

We are looking for a highly motivated and curious scientist with a strong background in:

• MR Physics, Data Science, Biomedical Engineering, or a related discipline
• Solid experience in MRI acquisition and data analysis, ideally in cardiac and/or brain imaging
• Solid programming skills (e.g., Python, MATLAB, C/C++ or similar)
• Experience in MR sequence programming is highly desirable
• Strong interest in translational, across-organ imaging research
• Ability to work independently in an interdisciplinary and international environment

What We Offer

• Access to cutting-edge imaging infrastructure, including:
• A 3T Siemens whole-body MRI scanner
• A 9.4T Bruker preclinical MRI system
• An inspiring interdisciplinary and international research environment
• Strong scientific support combined with substantial freedom to shape and drive your own research ideas
• Excellent opportunities for collaboration within national and international research networks
• A fixed-term contract for 2 years, with the option for extension

Why Join Us?

At the DPZ, you will work at the forefront of quantitative, translational MRI, contributing to a deeper understanding of brain–heart interactions with high clinical relevance. This position offers an outstanding opportunity to advance your scientific career while developing innovative imaging technologies that bridge basic research and human health.

We adhere to the Leibniz diversity standards and welcome applications from all qualified persons, regardless of their ethnic, cultural, social background, gender, religion, ideology, disability, age, or sexual identity. Registered disabled applicants with equal aptitude and qualifications will be given preferential consideration. We kindly ask you to indicate a disability in your application.

Employment at the DPZ is based on the civil service rules and regulations. The salary scale is in accordance with TV-L, with VBL pension scheme.

Apply Now:

Please submit your application under the reference "Cross-organ MRI", including a CV, cover letter, and list of references, via email to  The position will remain open until filled. Applications received by 
February 11, 2026
, will receive full consideration.

We warmly welcome your application and look forward to exploring the heart–brain connection together

For scientific questions regarding the project, please contact Prof. Susann Boretius at 
.

For more information about the DPZ, please visit  or call

Further information on the Leibniz Association can be found at www.leibniz-