6. Mapping in vivo brain changes across perimenopause in relation to anindividual’s gender experiences

Host

Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin

Duration

36 months

The research

This project investigates how gender experiences, such as gender identity and gender contentedness, relate to structural and functional brain changes across the perimenopausal years. Using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data and longitudinal measures of gender experiences from an ongoing longitudinal cohort study of up to 300 participants, the project will identify neural correlates of gender experiences, map temporal dynamics in brain morphometry and connectivity, and examine how these changes evolve in relation to perimenopausal transitions.

Your experience

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Hold a Master’s degree or equivalent inneuroscience, psychology, cognitive science, biomedical engineering or a related field. Candidates expecting to complete their degree before the starting date will also be considered
• Be in the first four years of their research career, not hold a Doctoral degree, and not have resided in Germany for more than 12 months during the 3 years immediately prior to recruitment/start of employment (MSCA mobility rule)
• Excellent written and spoken communication skills in English

Additional qualifications (considered strengths):

• Experience with structural and/or functional MRI analysis (e.g. FreeSurfer, FSL, SPM)
• Skills in statistical analysis and programming (e.g., R, Python); willingness to develop these skills is essential
• Experience in translating research findings into educational or outreach materials
• Strong ability to work independently, stay organized, andmaintain focus
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills
• Interest in Open Science practices and/or Women’s Health Advocacy

The position

• A collaborative, interdisciplinary research environment within an international consortium
• Training in longitudinal modelling, gender-related health research, and knowledge translation for community settings
• Access to a unique prospective cohort dataset and cutting-edge methodological expertise
• A structured secondment at MESSAGE (UK, 6 months) with dedicated supervision
• Opportunities for conference participation, publications, and professional development
• A fully funded position with competitive remuneration following institutional and project guidelines
• A family-friendly environment in Berlin, offering rich cultural opportunities and easy access to diverse activities