- Full-time, 18-month fixed-term position, with possible extension. Located on Darlington Campus
- Join a world-class research team exploring spatial cognition and navigation using fMRI, EEG and/or MEG
- Academic Level A6-8: Base Salary $105,350 - $112,462 p.a. + 17% superannuation
About the opportunity
The University of Sydney and University of Technology Sydney, together with ARIA Research, are developing and testing new auditory sensory augmentation paradigms. We are developing novel, multimodal auditory sensory augmentation technologies to assist the visually impaired using assistive technologies based on wearable glasses with machine vision. In this position, we focus on fMRI and EEG expertise (possible extension to MEG as well), However, we take a broad view of auditory sensory augmentation as comprised of three parts: (1) sensors and machine artificial intelligence extract information for a targeted objective; (2) this information is rendered via the auditory channel as sound; (3) we enable efferent feedback control via hand/wrist or other sensors. Experiments are run using motion capture and the latest AR/VR/XR equipment.
We have funding available through the NHMRC IDEAS project funding to support a Postdoctoral Research Associate to undertake fundamental research related to understanding the brain areas and processes related to learning and using auditory sensory augmentation for spatial cognition and navigation. We will use primarily fMRI and EEG, but also other physiological measures such as heart rate variability and electrodermal activity. Experimental paradigms will be developed and explored in the labs at USyd, UTS and the Human Augmentation Laboratory (The fMRI will be conducted at Westmead Hospital).
Multiple postdoctoral and PhD roles are open as part of this project. To begin, however, we are seeking a post-doctoral research associate to lead the fMRI and EEG exploration to develop the experimental paradigms and procedures and help develop the research team moving forward.
By incorporating concepts and understanding from neuroscience related to auditory processing and spatial cognition, and also a thorough understanding of fMRI and EEG techniques, this role involves the development of auditory sensory augmentation experiments that explore the longitudinal development of new capabilities for spatial cognition and navigation using auditory signals.
Your key responsibilities will be to:
- work closely with project academics, postdocs, and PhD students
- design an experimental paradigm for exploring the brain areas and processes related to the longitudinal development of spatial cognition abilities related to auditory sensory augmentation
- characterise auditory sensory augmentation paradigms through simulation, lab experiments, and user trials
- assist with project coordination
- contribute as a researcher to project report preparation, presentation at internal workshops, and dissemination at top international conferences and journals.
About you
The University values courage and creativity; openness and engagement; inclusion and diversity; and respect and integrity. As such, we see the importance of recruiting talent aligned to these values and are looking for a Postdoctoral Research Associate who has:
- a PhD in Cognitive Neuroscience or relevant field
- previous experience with fMRI and/or EEG/MEG experimental techniques
- background knowledge and experience in neuroscience related to spatial and auditory cognition
- ability to manage others and coordinate multiple project objectives
- excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
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Pre-employment checks
Your employment is conditional upon the completion of all role required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University. Similarly, your ongoing employment is conditional upon the satisfactory maintenance of all relevant clearances and background check requirements. If you do not meet these conditions, the University may take any necessary step, including the termination of your employment.
EEO statement
At the University of Sydney, our shared values include diversity and inclusion and we strive to be a place where everyone can thrive. We are committed to creating a University community which reflects the wider community that we serve. We deliver on this commitment through our people and culture programs, as well as key strategies to increase participation and support the careers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People , women , people living with a disability , people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds , and those who identify as LGBTIQ . We welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds.
How to apply
Applications (including a cover letter, CV, and any additional supporting documentation) can be submitted via the Apply button at the top of the page.
For employees of the University or contingent workers, please login into your Workday account and navigate to the Career icon on your Dashboard. Click on USYD Find Jobs and apply.
For a confidential discussion about the role, or if you require reasonable adjustment or any documents in alternate formats, please contact Nicole Turle, Recruitment Operations by email to [email protected]
For further information
https://sites.google.com/view/masa-dec
For further enquiries, email [email protected] and [email protected]
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Applications Close
Sunday 4th February 2024 11:59 PM