PhD Candidate: Auditory Neuroscience

For our research project SOUND, we are seeking a PhD candidate to investigate, using the latest neuroimaging techniques and clinical data, how speech comprehension after cochlear implantation can be better predicted (Predicting Speech Perception Outcomes in Cochlear Implant Candidates Using Neuroimaging Data). The project is conducted by the research team "Auditory Pathway" at the Hearing Research Laboratory of the ARTORG Center for Biomedical Engineering Research at the University of Bern, in close collaboration with the University Clinic for Ear, Nose and Throat Diseases at the Inselspital. Cochlear implants are highly effective neuroprostheses that enable people with severe hearing loss to perceive sounds and understand speech again. The success of speech comprehension after implantation varies greatly between individuals: for about a quarter of patients, the results fall short of expectations, and reliable predictions of the individual benefit of a cochlear implant before surgery are currently lacking. Evidence suggests that, in addition to the auditory organ, processing and networking in the brain also play an important role. The SOUND Study investigates how these insights can be used for more individualised predictions.

What to expect

• Within the framework of the SOUND Study, you will investigate the central auditory pathways using the latest imaging techniques. The focus is on functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) and specialised magnetic resonance imaging sequences (MRI)
• You will combine neuroimaging, audiological and clinical data and apply statistical methods as well as machine learning to identify patterns associated with later speech comprehension
• You will discuss and interpret your results together with experts from neuroradiology as well as clinical and technical specialists

What you bring

• Master’s degree in electrical engineering, biomedical engineering, physics or a related field
• Practical experience in signal processing
• Experience in medical image analysis or interest in developing expertise in this area; knowledge of data analysis or machine learning is an advantage
• Interest in clinical research and working with patients, as well as enjoyment of interdisciplinary collaboration
• Very good German and English skills, both spoken and written

Our offer

• You will become part of the interdisciplinary research team "Auditory Pathway" at the Hearing Research Laboratory of the ARTORG Center
• You will work with neuroscientists, doctors, audiologists and engineers
• Your PhD is integrated into the Graduate School for Cellular and Biomedical Sciences at the University of Bern and offers a structured, interdisciplinary education
• You will deepen your knowledge in signal processing, image analysis and machine learning

Questions about the position?

For further information, please contact Prof. Dr. med. Stefan Weder, Head of Otology and Hearing Implant Centre (HSM), Head of Research & Innovation

+41 31 63 2 33 47