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It is widely accepted that synaptic plasticity constitutes the cellular correlate of learning. Yet, synaptic plasticity alone is insufficient to fully account for learning. Other mechanisms, such as intrinsic plasticity of membrane excitability, have been shown to be necessary for memory formation. Still, it remains unclear how intrinsic plasticity contributes to memory encoding and alters cognitive processes. In this project, we will leverage the advanced voltage imaging in larval zebrafish to investigate how intrinsic plasticity reshapes neuronal behavior.

Your job

Traditional electrophysiological methods, such as patch clamp, have largely advanced our understanding of neuronal behavior and continue to provide valuable insights. However, these approaches are invasive and lack the spatial resolution for in vivo studies. Leveraging recent advances in microscopy and voltage indicators, we can now observe voltage signaling within different compartments of a single cell in live animals, enabling us to examine hypotheses in a truly physiological context.

In this project, you will contribute to both engineering and neurobiology. First, you will help build a light-sheet microscope optimized for voltage imaging at the single-cell and subcellular level in live larval zebrafish. The development of this system will be supported by Dr. Emmanuel Marquez Legorreta, Dr. Ernest van der Wee, and the team. Once the microscope is established, you will use it to investigate the electrophysiological properties of cerebellar Purkinje cells with advanced voltage indicators such as Voltron2. The ultimate goal is to uncover how Purkinje cells alter their dendritic signaling and spiking characteristics under different sensory or chemogenetic conditioning paradigms, and to determine how these changes may be mediated through intrinsic plasticity or brain state.

Your qualities

We are excited to welcome a motivated colleague who enjoys working collaboratively, and is enthusiastic about contributing to innovative science as part of our dynamic team. You meet the following criteria:

• You hold, or are about to complete, a Master’s degree in Biology or Engineering. In a programme that requires two internships, students who have completed their first internship are also encouraged to apply.
• You have an interdisciplinary background. Previous microscopy training is a strong asset.
• You demonstrate a strong interest in, or prior experience with, neuroscience.
• You bring enthusiasm for live imaging at the single-cell and subcellular level in larval zebrafish.
• You are proficient in academic English, both spoken and written.

Our offer

• a position for 18 months, with an extension to a total of four years upon successful assessment in the first 18 months;
• a gross monthly salary between € 3.059 and € 3.881 in the case of full-time employment (salary scale P under the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (CAO NU));
• 8% holiday pay and 8.3% year-end bonus;
• a pension scheme, partially paid parental leave and flexible terms of employment based on the CAO NU.

In addition to the terms of employment laid down in the CAO NU, Utrecht ľ¹Ï¸£ÀûÓ°ÊÓ also offers a range of its own schemes for employees. This includes arrangements for professional development, various types of leave, and options for sports and cultural activities. You can also tailor your employment conditions through our Terms of Employment Options Model. In this way, we encourage you to keep investing in your personal and professional development. For more information, please visit Working at Utrecht ľ¹Ï¸£ÀûÓ°ÊÓ.

About us

A better future for everyone. This ambition motivates our scientists in executing their leading research and inspiring teaching. At Utrecht ľ¹Ï¸£ÀûÓ°ÊÓ, the various disciplines collaborate intensively towards major strategic themes. Our focus is on Dynamics of Youth, Institutions for Open Societies, Life Sciences and Pathways to Sustainability. .

Working at the Faculty of Science means bringing together inspiring people across disciplines and with a variety of perspectives and backgrounds. The Faculty has six departments: Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Information & Computing Sciences, Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics. Together, we work on excellent research and inspiring education. We do so, driven by curiosity and supported by outstanding infrastructure. Visit us on and discover how you can become part of our community.

You will join the group of Dr. Ting-Feng Lin at the within the Department of Biology. Our division hosts the state-of-the-art , which offers technical support and training in advanced light and fluorescent microscopy. The Lin group works closely and shares lab space with the group of Dr. Emmanuel Marquez Legorreta. In addition, several labs in the department pursue diverse scientific questions using zebrafish as a model system, supported by a dedicated core facility maintained by professional veterinarians and technicians. Being part of this enriching community, our group not only shares the common scientific ambitions but also fosters an environment built on care, respect and collaboration.

More information

For more information, please contact Dr. T.F. (Ting-Feng) Lin at t.f.lin@uu.nl.

Do you have a question about the application procedure? Please send an email to science.recruitment@uu.nl.

Apply now

As Utrecht ľ¹Ï¸£ÀûÓ°ÊÓ, we want to be a home for everyone. We value staff with diverse backgrounds, perspectives and identities, including cultural, religious or ethnic background, gender, sexual orientation, disability or age. We strive to create a safe and inclusive environment in which everyone can flourish and contribute.

If you are enthusiastic about this position, just apply via the "Apply now" button! Please enclose:

• your letter of motivation;
• your Curriculum vitae;
• the names, telephone numbers, and email addresses of at least two references;

If this specific opportunity isn’t for you, but you know someone else who may be interested, please forward this vacancy to them.

#FundamentalConnection

The application deadline is 2 November 2025.