Pharmacological modulation of dreaming

The project combines a unique combination of cutting-edge experimental approaches, including pharmacological manipulations of the arousal systems, 256-channel-high-density EEG sleep recordings combined with controlled sensory stimulations and serial awakening paradigms. The candidate will work in the laboratory of Francesca Siclari, senior group leader, whose research focuses on the neurobiological mechanisms of dreams. The intern will be directly supervised by one experienced postdoctoral researcher.

The internship position is for a minimal period of 6 months. Preferably starting in September 2026.

Main tasks:

• Recruitment and screening of study participants
• Scheduling of study visits and sleep recordings
• Participation in data acquisition (setting up and acquisition of nocturnal high-density EEG recordings, awakening and interviewing participants about dreams)
• Participation in sleep scoring, data pre-processing
• Data organization and management

Profile

• You have a Bachelor degree or study Biology, Neurosciences, Biomedical Sciences, Biomedical Engineering or related fields, or a diploma as a sleep or neurophysiology technician
• You ideally have research experience, are familiar with sleep and dream research or are highly interested in the topic
• You are willing to work during night-time

Skills

• You are fluent in written and spoken English.
• You have excellent organizational and communication skills
• You are rigorous, committed and highly motivated
• You are a team player
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

Interested? Send your:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Short motivation letter (academic interests and relevance to this project)

Contact: j.bruijel@nin.knaw.nl