PhD positions: “Cerebellar Predictions in Speech Processing”
We’re looking for two PhD candidates to work on a project co-funded by the Agence Nationale de la Recherche (ANR) and Austrian Science Fund (FWF). The project examines the role of the cerebellum in speech processing, a research question that is rapidly gaining in importance. The project is centred on the hypothesis that the cerebellum conveys predictions about upcoming speech sounds to the neocortex. To test this hypothesis, the PhD candidates will apply methods that include magnetoencephalography (MEG), brain stimulation, neurofeedback, and computational modelling. The two PhD positions advertised will be based at the CNRS unit “Centre de Recherche Cerveau et Cognition (CerCo)” in Toulouse. The project includes a collaboration with the Universities of Salzburg and Maastricht. It is co-led by Benedikt Zoefel (Toulouse) and Gianpaolo Demarchi (Salzburg). Both PhD candidates will apply state-of-the-art analytical approaches (source-level analyses, directed connectivity) to MEG data. One position includes an additional computational component, and the other a focus on transcranial brain stimulation.
The successful applicants will join a lively research institute in Toulouse, a thriving city in the South-West of France. The CerCo has in-house EEG, MRI, and brain stimulation facilities and is currently being equipped with a new OPM-MEG system that the PhD candidates will use. PhD candidates are expected to collect and analyse data, write scientific manuscripts, present at conferences, contribute to lab meetings and social events, and help with the preparation of experimental designs. The salary is determined by CNRS guidelines (approx. 2300€ gross).
Requirements:
• Master Degree in neuroscience, cognitive science, or similar
• Programming skills (e.g., MATLAB, Python)
• Experience in recording and analysing EEG or MEG data
• Interest or experience in transcranial brain stimulation or computational modelling can be an advantage
• Fluent in English in both speaking and writing
The starting date of the positions is September 2026 by default, but can be adjusted if necessary.
To apply, please send a CV, including the name of two potential references, and a letter of motivation to Benedikt Zoefel (benedikt.zoefel at cnrs.fr). Review of applications will start on 2nd March 2026, and continue until the positions are filled.