Description of the Schroeder Lab

The newly established group of Prof. Dr. Anna Schroeder at LMU Munich is seeking excellent candidates for multiple PhD positions in Neuroscience.

For more information, visit www.annaschroederlab.com

Our lab investigates the neural circuits underlying emotions, motivations, and physiological needs, focusing on how these internal states shape behavior in dynamic environments. Specifically, we study the subthalamic circuits of the zona incerta, an enigmatic brain region that integrates internal states, external sensory cues, and past experiences to adapt behavior flexibly. To dissect the neural circuit mechanisms driving behavior, we employ cutting-edge methodologies including:

• In vivo calcium imaging with 2-photon microscopy or Miniscopes
• Whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiology
• Single-cell RNA sequencing
• Optogenetics
• Chemogenetics
• Viral circuit tracing
• State-driven behavioral paradigms
• Transgenic mouse models
• Advanced machine learning techniques

Our ultimate goal is to advance understanding of brain function and develop novel therapeutic strategies for psychiatric disorders through neuromodulation. Prof. Dr. Schroeder is deeply committed to training, mentorship and career development for lab members. The lab offers state-of-the-art neuroscience in a very supportive environment.

What we offer

• The best environment for neuroscience in Germany:
  • LMU Munich is often ranked as the best university in Germany and is consistently ranked among the top 50 universities worldwide, both overall and for life sciences specifically
  • According to the Nature Index, LMU Munich is the top academic institution in Germany for neuroscience
  • A neuroscience degree from the Graduate School of Systemic Neurosciences (GSN) at LMU Munich is ranked first in Germany
• Advanced neuroscience research with cutting-edge tools in state-of-the-art facilities
• Collaborative and inclusive environment, including partnerships with leading local institutions (e.g., Max Planck Institutes, DZNE, Helmholtz Institutes, TU Munich) all connected via the Munich Center for Neurosciences
• Mentorship and career development support from Prof. Dr. Schroeder, a young and highly motivated PI who is genuinely invested in the success of her team members
• Opportunity to live in Munich, a vibrant, international city near lakes and mountains with one of the world's strongest neuroscience communities and a high quality of life

Eligibility requirements 

Candidates must meet the following criteria:

• Master's degree or equivalent in a relevant field (e.g., biology, psychology, medicine, physics), completed before October 2025
• Strong academic performance and a demonstrated interest in neuroscience
• Proficiency in English

Beneficial qualifications:

• Experience with neurophysiological or behavioral data analysis
• Practical experience with rodents (e.g., stereotactic surgeries, behavioral experiments).

How to apply

Applications can be submitted now via the Graduate School of Systemic Neurosciences (GSN). Applicants should specify their interest in the Schroeder lab and must provide the following:

• Completed online form
• CV
• Transcripts
• Diplomas
• Motivation statement
• Contact details for 2 referees to submit recommendation letters

The application deadline is February 17, 2025. 

Admission decisions for the GSN at LMU Munich are communicated in May 2025, with the PhD program officially starting in October 2025. However, the start date is flexible and may begin earlier.

Interested applicants are encouraged to reach out to Prof. Dr. Schroeder by email at anna.schroeder(at)bio.lmu.de before applying.