PhD fellowship in Comparative Motor Control of Voice

We seek a PhD candidate to study motor control and biomechanics of sound production across vertebrates.

Start: August 15th, 2026, or soon thereafter
Duration: 3 years

Job description:
The Vocal Neuromechanics lab uses a combination of experimental and computational approaches to study motor control and physical mechanisms of sound production in the vocal vertebrates. We use and develop methods from biomechanics, electrophysiology, acoustics, and behavior at different levels of organization (cellular, whole organ, in vivo).

The PhD candidate will use combined in vitro, and ex vivo approaches studying vocal organ physiology in a comparative context. Experimental techniques from biomechanics, neuroscience and voice science will be used, such as high-speed imaging, 3D stereoscopy, muscle mechanics, EMG, sound and kinematic analysis.

We are looking for a highly motivated, dedicated and ambitious candidate with:
-    Recent MSc degree - or similar - in biology or engineering, preferably with a background in neuroscience, bioacoustics or biomechanics.
-    Experience in signal analysis and programming (Python, R, Matlab, or equivalent) present a distinct advantage.
-    Excellent written and oral English language communication skills
-    Strong communication and collaborative skills. 
-    Interest in working in an interdisciplinary environment paired with excellent social skills.

We offer:
-    A three-year PhD position in a stimulating and supportive, international research team
-    Access to state-of-the-art facilities and infrastructure.
-    Excellent training in all aspects of this project.
-    The opportunity to work and interact with an extensive network of international collaborators.
-    A competitive salary and social benefits (e.g. health coverage, parental leave, social security etc.).

Contact
Please contact Prof. Coen Elemans coen@biology.sdu.dk for more information.

Vocal Neuromechanics lab: https://www.sdu.dk/en/forskning/sound-communication-behaviour/research-labs/vocal-neuromechanics-lab 
Sound and Behavior Group: https://www.sdu.dk/en/forskning/sound-communication-behaviour

Requirements to complete a PhD at SDU
-    Complete a study program of 30 ECTS points 
-    Participate in teaching and knowledge dissemination activities in particular in the area of neurobiology and animal physiology
-    Carry out external research stay (max. 6 months).
-    Complete a PhD thesis including scientific publications
-    Publicly defend your PhD

Application, salary etc.  

Appointment as a PhD Research Fellow is for three years. Employment stops automatically at the end of the period.  

Further information about the PhD programme at the Faculty of Science can be found at the University’s website.   

The successful applicant will be employed in accordance with the agreement on salaried PhD scholars between the Ministry of Finance and AC (the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations). Please check links for more information on salary (only available in Danish) and taxation.  

Salary is determined in accordance with the applicable collective agreement and based on objective and gender-neutral criteria, including the content of the position, responsibilities, and qualification requirements. 

As an applicant, you are entitled to information about the starting salary and salary range for the position. This information will be provided during the recruitment process. 

SDU does not collect information on applicants’ previous salary. 

The successful candidate will be enrolled at this university in accordance with faculty regulations and the Danish Ministerial Order on the PhD Programme at the Universities (PhD order).  

Further information about the PhD-study can be found at the University’s website.  

The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.  

Application must be in English and made in the form of a Declaration of Interest including the following: 

• A letter stating your specific interest, motivation, and qualifications for the project in question (max. two pages). 

• Detailed CV, including personal contact information and date entries 

• Copies of diplomas, Bachelor as well as Master’s degree, including transcript of notes/grades. 

• The names and complete contact details (phone numbers and e-mail) of at least two referees details for at least 2 referees who can vouch for your skills.    

Incomplete applications and applications received after the deadline will neither be considered nor evaluated. 

Shortlisting may be used as part of the assessment process, and an interview may be included in the overall evaluation of the applicant’s qualifications. 

Read more: https://fa-eosd-saasfaprod1.fa.ocs.oraclecloud.com/hcmUI/CandidateExperience/en/sites/CX_1001/job/4092?keyword=4092&mode=location