Research Assistant / Research Associate in Cognitive Computational Neuroscience (Fixed Term)

The position will focus on cognitive computational neuroimaging studies of learning and brain plasticity. Our studies combine ultra-high field brain imaging (7T fMRI, MR Spectroscopy), electrophysiology (EEG), interventional (TMS, tDCS) and neurocomputational (machine learning, reinforcement learning) approaches to understand the network dynamics that support learning and brain plasticity.

The research activity is at the core of a Wellcome Trust funded Collaborative award that brings together a cross-disciplinary team of international experts to investigate the role of brain network dynamics for adaptive behaviour. Our research programme bridges work across scales (local circuits, global networks) and species (humans, mice) to uncover the neurocomputations that support learning and brain plasticity. Our work capitalises on cutting-edge methodological developments in our team: a) ultra high-field MR Spectroscopy and functional brain imaging (Emir lab, U North Carolina; Kourtzi lab, Cambridge), b) optogenetics, electrophysiology neuropharmacology (Paulsen, Dalley, Poort labs, Cambridge; Rusakov lab: UCL), c) computational and AI-inspired modelling (Ahmadian lab, Cambridge).This international collaborative network provides unique opportunities for cross-disciplinary training in innovative methodologies at the interface of neuroscience and computational science.

Research in the Adaptive Brain lab aims to understand how humans of all ages (healthy and patients with neurocognitive disorders) translate sensory experience into complex decisions and adaptive behaviours by taking into account previous experience and learning. We develop cross-disciplinary approaches to study the young and ageing brain and understand adaptive behaviours in health and neurocognitive disorders.

You will receive multi-disciplinary research training at the interface between neuroscience and computational sciences. You will be integrated in a diverse collaborative team and will have the opportunity to participate in workshops and retreats across the network as well as exchange visits across labs to facilitate cross-disciplinary training and collaborative working.

Applicants should have a MRes or PhD (or submitted at time of appointment) together with a strong academic track record, in a relevant area (e.g., Neuroscience, Cognitive Psychology, Medicine, Genetics, Mathematics, Engineering, Computer Science, Medicine). Programming skills are highly desirable and experience with brain imaging, EEG, computational modeling preferable. Above all, they will demonstrate enthusiasm to contribute new knowledge, openness to learn new approaches and willingness to contribute to a multidisciplinary team across sectors (academia, industry).