PhD Position on Cortical Organoids, Electrophysiology, and Microgravity at the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia

A PhD position is available at the Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences of the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia.

The position is funded by the Italian Space Agency within the project “Electrophysiological and Morphological Dynamics of Human Cortical Organoids in Simulated Microgravity.”

The research project will focus on the experimental mapping of functional network remodelling in human cortical organoids and on the development of biophysical models of neural circuit adaptation. The activities will involve the use of high-density Micro-Electrode Arrays and modified Hodgkin-Huxley formalisms.

The PhD programme will also include international mobility periods at partner institutions in the United States, the Netherlands, and Switzerland.

Candidate profile

Applications are invited from candidates who hold, or will obtain by 31 October 2026, a Master’s degree in:

• Biomedical Engineering;
• Bioengineering;
• Physics;
• Computer Engineering;
• Neuroscience;
• Biotechnology;
• other related STEM disciplines.

A strong background in cellular electrophysiology, tissue engineering, three-dimensional cell cultures or organoids, and computational modelling will be considered an asset. Proficiency in programming languages such as Python and experience with agentic coding approaches based on large language models are also highly valued.

Further information about the laboratory is available on the dedicated website.

Details on the application procedure and admission requirements are available at the dedicated website. Please refer to the “Bandi di Ammissione” section and to “ICT – XLII ciclo, borse ASI.”

For further details, interested candidates may contact Michele Giugliano.