Endowed Professorship "Neuromorphic Systems" at the Institute of Physiology (Donor: Manfred-Stärk Fdn. for Brain Research) Assistant Professor Tenure Track

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The University of Bern, with the generous support of the Manfred Stärk Foundation for Brain Research, is pleased to announce the creation of the Manfred Stärk Professorship for Neuromorphic Systems – a tenure-track Assistant Professor position to be based at the Institute of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, in Bern, Switzerland.
This newly established position will focus on neuromorphic systems, an interdisciplinary field at the intersection of computational neuroscience, neuroscience, and engineering.
Neuromorphic systems aim to develop circuits and hardware that replicate the self-organizing and self-regulating properties of the brain, with potential applications ranging from medical implants (e.g., for damaged retinas) to autonomous robotics and real-time data processing technologies.
The endowed position will strengthen the University of Bern's research in theoretical neuroscience, aligning with the institution's ongoing contributions to the European Human Brain Project and beyond.

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The successful candidate will be responsible for establishing an independent research program in neuromorphic systems, with the goal of securing external funding and promoting interdisciplinary collaboration. This includes collaboration within the Faculty of Medicine – such as with the Institute of Physiology, the Center for Experimental Neurology (ZEN), the Neuroengineering Technologies Group (NeuroTech), and the ARTORG Center for Biomedical Engineering Research – as well as with clinical partners at the Inselspital (Bern University Hospital) and with institutions outside the University.
The candidate will work to advance theoretical models of brain information processing, focusing on areas including neuronal activity, synaptic plasticity, machine learning, and the development of fast, energy-efficient neuromorphic systems. The candidate will also play a central role in developing teaching activities in theoretical neuroscience, with a focus on integrating theoretical concepts, neurosciences, and brain-inspired hardware such as neuromorphic devices. The role also involves fostering strong collaboration with experimental and clinical neuroscience groups, including translational research that bridges these domains.

The ideal candidate will be fluent in English and German (learning window possible) and will have a proven track record in teaching, along with the ability to secure funding for interdisciplinary neuroscience research. The candidate should have expertise in fields such as physics, neuroscience, applied mathematics, or related areas, ideally balancing engineering and neuroscience. A strong ability to collaborate across experimental, clinical, and theoretical domains is essential, as well as experience with computational tools relevant to neuroscience and digital medicine. Leadership skills, excellent communication, and the ability to manage diverse, interdisciplinary teams are highly valued. Additionally, the candidate should demonstrate a commitment to diversity, fostering early-career researchers, and promoting inclusive academic practices.

Self-conception

The University of Bern strives to increase the proportion of women in leadership positions. Women are therefore particularly encouraged to apply. Also, the University of Bern welcomes job-sharing applications. The University of Bern offers support for parents and flexible working time models. Further information can be obtained at Work-life-balance (see job-sharing requirements for more information, https://www.vereinbarkeit.unibe.ch/index_eng.html).