Postdoc position “Computational cognitive neuroscience of vision and learning”

(ref. BAP-2021-726)

Laatst aangepast : 4/10/2021

The research group of Hans Op de Beeck at the University of Leuven (Belgium) has a particular interest in the neural basis of human visual and social cognition, and hope to better understand the factors that constrain the functioning of the underlying systems and their further adaptation due to learning experiences and visual expertise. Current research lines involve multivariate fMRI & EEG and computational modelling, often using learning paradigms and/or populations of real-world experts, and applications in the context of neurodevelopment disorders (e.g., autism). More information on our research group can be found at hoplab.be. KU Leuven is one of the best European universities according to international rankings (#42 world-wide in the THE ranking). KU Leuven houses more than 100 labs in neuroscience, brought together in the Leuven Brain Institute. Our research group belongs to the department of Brain & Cognition that contains almost 100 scientists, many of them with interest in vision, learning, and neuroscience. The department is located in the centre of Leuven, a vibrant university town which is only a 25-minute commute from the centre of Brussels and its international airport.

Responsibilities

The candidate is expected to investigate the neural basis of visual cognition and learning from a computational & cognitive neuroscience perspective. There is a possibility to also work on your own interests if they fit sufficiently.

The position is research-only, without teaching obligations, but teaching opportunities can be arranged if wanted. 

Profile

Eligible candidates have research experience and a PhD in a relevant area, preferably demonstrated with first-author peer-reviewed publications in the domain of computational & cognitive neuroscience. A computational and quantitative background is important, including good programming skills (e.g. Python, Matlab), experience applying and developing artificial neural networks (with e.g. PyTorch or TensorFlow),  and advanced statistical knowledge. Further assets are experience with neuroimaging methods and the cognitive neuroscience literature, a creative mind, good problem solving skills, international and interdisciplinary mobility, and a collaborative, open-minded, and collegial attitude.

Offer

We currently have funding for up to three years, starting with a one year contract. We have a good track record helping postdocs obtain their own personal prestigious fellowships afterwards, as such allowing them to extend their stay and broaden the range of research questions. The net amount of the salary will be competitive and in accordance with the University fellowship scales for postdoctoral researchers (which are better than in most other countries). The starting date would ideally be early in 2022, but obviously we will be flexible given the current international travel restrictions and further personal constraints. 

Interested?

For more information please contact Prof. dr. Hans Op de Beeck, tel.: +32 16 32 60 39, mail: [email protected].

KU Leuven seeks to foster an environment where all talents can flourish, regardless of gender, age, cultural background, nationality or impairments. If you have any questions relating to accessibility or support, please contact us at [email protected].