People

All lab members are presented in alphabetical order.

Sicheng Dai, PostDoc

I am interested in modeling and the analysis of brain networks in health and disease through the fusion of two fields: Network Science (e.g. network dynamics, multilayer networks), and Machine Learning (e.g. graph neural networks). Prior to this postdoc, I received my PhD in computer science from ENS Lyon, where I studied the dynamic patterns of human interaction within large-scale temporal (social) networks. Outside of research, I’m a passionate nature enthusiast and animal lover. Sicheng’s email

Alexander Frotscher, PhD Candidate

My research focuses on machine learning and unsupervised anomaly detection within neuroimaging data. I’m driven by the ambition to advance methodological approaches, with the ultimate aim of influencing clinical practices positively. Through the development of robust models, I seek to deepen our comprehension of biological variations and diseases. Beyond my scientific pursuits, I find joy in various sports activities. Alexanders’ email

Samira Hajizadeh, MSc Student & Internship

My primary interest is applying machine learning techniques to healthcare. I recently completed my BSc at the University of Tehran, where I focused on anomaly detection in medical images. Currently, I am pursuing an MSc at Columbia University while interning at the laboratory for mental health mapping. Here, I explore the use of large language models and its putative impact on mental health. Outside of research, I enjoy traveling, socializing, and reading novels. Samira’s email

Milin Kim, PhD Candidate

I am interested in the development of the cerebellum over the lifespan and its role in neurological and mental disorders. In my PhD, I am mapping the trajectory of the cerebellum using machine learning methods and brain imaging of large populations. Before starting my PhD at Oslo University Hospital, I studied psychology at Seoul National University and continued with cognitive neuroscience at University of Oslo. Outside the lab I spend my time exploring Norwegian forests and fjords, baking macarons, and reading. Milin’s email

Gülce Lale, PhD Candidate

After obtaining a BSc in Computer Science and Engineering as well as Psychology, I pursued my passion for neuroscience by completing an MSc at the Graduate School of Systemic Neurosciences in Munich. Now, in my PhD, I aim to contribute to explaining individual differences in brain structure and function and their effects on cognitive functioning in mental health disorders using neuroimaging, neurocognitive, and machine learning methods. Outside the lab, I love spending time in nature, practicing yoga, and writing short stories. Gülce’s email

Marc Lemnitzer, BSc Student

Currently, I am pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Bioinformatics and contributing to a machine learning package focused on mapping complex biomarker configurations. My work involves rigorous validation across diverse datasets. I am particularly interested in the intersection of machine learning and biology. Due to my commitment to academic and research pursuits, I dedicate most of my time to these activities, leaving little room for leisure but I enjoy spending time with friends. Marc’s email

Francesco Mallus, PhD Candidate

I am deeply passionate about understanding brain function across various conscious states and pathological conditions, aiming to identify robust biomarkers that reflect these functional states and the connections that shape each person’s unique qualia. As a biomedical engineer with a background from the Polytechnic University of Turin, where I focused on biomedical device design and bio-signal and image processing for both my BSc and MSc, I have merged my love for technology with a keen interest in neuropsychology. In my free time, I enjoy photography, tinkering, and sailing. Francescos’s email

Chiara Möller, MSc Student

I am a Master’s student in Neural and Behavioural Sciences at Tübingen University, with research interests at the intersection of bioinformatics, neuroscience, and computational modeling. My primary focus is on using computational tools to analyze multimodal data, aiming to enhance our understanding of psychiatric disorders. Outside the lab, I enjoy playing lacrosse and spending my time with coffee, nature, and crossword puzzles. Chiara’s email

Minh-Hieu Nguyen, PhD Candidate

I am interested in the development of computational models to understand the mechanisms behind learning and decision-making processes, and how those change in individuals with mental disorders. Previously, I studied chemistry at the National University of Singapore before starting my master in neural information processing at the University of Tübingen and recently started my PhD trajectory. Outside of the lab, I enjoy cooking, music and reading. Minh-Hieu’s email

Melis Oktayoglu, HiWi

Pursuing a Master’s degree in machine learning at the University of Tübingen, my focus lies in leveraging predictive models to delve into the intricacies of individual differences in schizophrenia. Within my role as a HiWi, I contribute to a diverse array of tasks, including the handling of extensive datasets, cluster computing, and system maintenance. Moreover, I am actively immersing myself in the literature pertaining to machine learning applications in mental health, with a specific emphasis on utilizing language-based feature sets. Melis’s email

Nikolaos Pahakis, MSc Student

I am a master student in cognitive science, currently engaged in writing my thesis about the optimal way of leveraging brain scans for building normative models. I am a hardware and technology enthusiast, and at the same time interested in everything surrounding the brain and it’s psychology. For my Bachelor’s degree in Osnabrück, I looked at how people oriented themselves in a VR environment and whether they could acquire and successfully use a new sense. Outside of university, I like to go hiking, gaming, and exploring novel things, especially food. Nikolaos’s email

Francesco Sammarco, PhD Candidate

I am a Computer Science Engineer with a passion for exploring explainability techniques and making sense of black-box models in machine learning. I believe these techniques can play a transformative role in mental health applications by improving transparency and trust in AI-driven tools. In my research, I aim to bridge the gap between advanced machine learning methods and their practical implementation in mental health diagnostics and treatment. Outside of my technical work, I enjoy sports and gaming, finding a balance between intellectual and physical challenges. Francesco’s email

Elias Schreiner, Data Scientist & IT-Infrastructure

I am a bioinformatics enthusiast working in IT infrastructure and science. I leverage the potential of deep learning to unlock insights from complex biological data. I belief that using this technology can enhance our understanding of the biological world, particularly in the context of improving the lives of those affected by neurodegenerative conditions and it’s often comorbid mental disorders. Elias’ email

Philipp Seidel, PostDoc

I am harnessing modelling techniques to discern variations in brain metrics, encompassing currently structural but eventually functional aspects, across diverse populations. I am particularly dedicated to unraveling the intricate dynamics of longitudinal changes within brain images. By delving into the nuanced alterations occurring over time, I aim to illuminate critical insights into the progression of neurological and mental health conditions. Philipp’s email

Nitin Sharma, HiWi

I’m currently pursuing my master’s in Neural Information Processing, focusing on unraveling the mechanisms of mental disorders using machine learning. My past work involved analyzing EEG and MRI/fMRI data, employing deep learning for domain adaptation in multi-site datasets related to conditions like depression. In the lab, I’m delving into individual differences through Normative modeling and machine-learning methods. Beyond research, I cherish spending time with friends, hiking, and immersing myself in music. Nitin’s email

Thomas Wolfers, PI

In my research I develop machine learning methods to understand factors that contribute to (mental) health problems in individuals. I hold a PhD in neuroscience from the Radboud University and have been working as a Postdoc in Netherlands (Radboud University), researcher in Norway (University of Oslo), and visiting scholar in the United Kingdom (University of Oxford) before starting my research group in Tübingen (Germany). In the long run, I aim to implement technological developments into clinical practice working together with clinicians and researchers. Outside of the lab, I study yoga, meditation and enjoy reading but also like social activities and music. Thomas’s email & HP

Gokul Vijayakrishnan, HiWi & IT-Infrastructure

I am currently pursuing my Master’s degree in Artificial Intelligence with a passion for computer vision, deep learning, and MLOps. With over seven years of professional experience in the data and embedded systems domain, I have contributed to organizations like Bosch and Aptiv. My projects have spanned diverse areas, including interior sensing, visual quality inspection, and key point estimation. Outside of my academic and professional commitments, I enjoy exploring new places and engaging in coding activities. Gokul’s email

Yanwu Yang, PostDoc

My interests include neuroimaging analysis (e.g., large-scale analysis, neurodevelopment, and aging), computational neuroscience, and Connectome-Wide Association Studies (CWAS). Additionally, I am keen on promoting deep learning methods for clinical applications and leveraging neuroscience in foundation model analysis (e.g., the emergence and reasoning in LLMs). Prior to this postdoc, I earned my MSc and PhD from Harbin Institute of Technology in China. I’m also a coffee enthusiast and enjoying gaming and traveling. Yanwu’s email

Mariam Zabihi, PostDoc

With a Ph.D. in statistical neuroimaging from Radboud University Medical Center, my expertise centers on addressing psychiatric disorder heterogeneity through normative modeling. Currently, as a research fellow at UCL’s Department of Computer Science, I focus on advancing generative models for neuroimaging data analysis. Concurrently, in a part-time PostDoc role in Tübingen, I delve into deep normative modeling techniques to discern individual differences within neuroimaging datasets. This dual engagement allows me to contribute significantly to both methodological advancements and the broader understanding of neurological diversity in psychiatric research. Mariam’s email

Join Us

We welcome new talent to our team! To see if any positions are currently available, please check here. If no positions are listed, our team may be fully staffed at the moment. However, feel free to send us an email to inquire about future opportunities.

Alumni

Completed PostDoc/Data-Scientist
Hao-Chun(Chad) Yang (2024) -> Works in industry

Completed PhD
Esten Leonardsen (2024) -> Continued with Postdoc @ University of Oslo
Rikka Kjelkenes (2023) -> Continued with Postdoc @ University of Oslo

Completed MSc/HiWi
Chiara Möller (2024) -> Travels the world
Alexander Frotscher (2023) -> Continued with PhD @ University of Tübingen with Thomas
Minh-Hieu Nguyen (2023) -> Continued with PhD @ University of Tübingen with Thomas
Sarah Sobotta (2023) -> Continued with a PhD @ Max Planck Institute Leipzig
Mai Han Hoang (2022) -> Works in industry
Milin Kim (2021) -> Continued with PhD @ University of Oslo with Thomas
Victória Trindade (2019) -> Continued with PhD @ University Medical Center Groningen
Christina Isakoglou (2017) -> Continued with PhD @ Radboud University of Nijmegen
Maria Paraskevopoulou (2016) -> Continued with PhD @ Radboud University of Nijmegen

Completed BSc/Honors/DAAD
Ponnuru Mahesh Datta Sai (2024) -> Continued with BSc @ SRM Institute of Science and Technology
Sacha ten Broeke (2023) -> Continued with MSc @ Radboud University of Nijmegen

Completed Labrotation/Internship
Mylla Marsiglia (2024) -> Continued with PhD @ Max Planck Institute Leipzig
Shun-chin Wu (Jim) (2023) -> Continued with MSc @ University College London
Can Demircan (2023) -> Continued with MSc @ University of Tübingen
María Berjano (2022) -> Continued with Labrotation @ University of Duisburg-Essen