Postdoctoral positions within the Max Planck UCL Centre for Computational Psychiatry and Ageing Research

Two 2-year postdoctoral positions (with possibilities for extension) in cognitive neuroscience / neuroimaging / computational modeling are now available in the Lifespan Neural Dynamics Group (PI: Douglas D. Garrett) of the newly established Max Planck UCL Centre for Computational Psychiatry and Ageing Research (Co-Directors: Ray Dolan and Ulman Lindenberger). The group investigates neuroimaging-based brain signal variability and dynamics in relation to cognition, structural/functional connectivity, neuromodulation, and transcranial stimulation, with an emphasis on age-related differences. Multivariate statistical methods and computational models linking brain dynamics to behavior are of key importance to the group. Available equipment and facilities include EEG, MRI (two 3-Tesla scanners), TMS, tDCS/ACS/RNS, and a grid computing system.

The overarching goal of the Max Planck UCL Centre for Computational Psychiatry and Ageing Research is to use computational approaches to understand the causes of individual differences in behavioral development, with an emphasis on psychiatric disorders and cognitive aging. The Centre is a collaboration between the Max Planck Society and University College London, and has two sites, one in London and the other in Berlin. The Lifespan Neural Dynamics Group is situated primarily in Berlin, although either postdoctoral position may be held in either Berlin or London. The Gatsby Computational Neuroscience Unit (UCL, London), the Max Planck Institute for Cognitive and Brain Sciences (Leipzig), the Max Planck Institute for Human Development (Berlin), and the Wellcome Trust Centre for Neuroimaging (UCL, London) all participate in the Centre.

Successful candidates will hold a doctoral degree in psychology, neuroscience, computer science, or a related field, and show a competitive publication record. A strong background in one or more of the following is preferred: fMRI, EEG; computational/mathematical/statistical modeling of behavior and/or neural function. Programming skills (e.g., Matlab/R/Python/shell) are required. We are committed to employing more handicapped individuals and especially encourage them to apply. We also seek to increase the number of women in scientific areas in which they are underrepresented, and therefore explicitly encourage applications from female candidates. To apply, please send a cover letter expressing research interests and future goals, a complete CV, and contact information for at least two references to MPS-UCL@mpib-berlin.mpg.de before June 15, 2014. Positions would preferably begin on or before November 1, 2014, but start dates are flexible. More information on the Lifespan Neural Dynamics Group can be found at douglasdgarrett.com.