Job University of Amsterdam (UvA) - PhD candidate in Cognitive Neuroscience

'The role of neuroelectrical oscillations during cognitive control and reinforcement learning'

The Psychology Department (Brain and Cognition group) is hiring a PhD student to study the neural basis of cognitive control and reinforcement learning in humans. The project will combine multiple neuroimaging approaches (EEG/MEG, fMRI, diffusion-weighted MRI, and transcranial magnetic stimulation) to (1) characterize cortical oscillatory dynamics underlying cognitive control and reinforcement learning, (2) examine whether these cortical oscillatory dynamics are causally involved in cognitive control, and (3) test whether learning and control can be enhanced through manipulating oscillation dynamics. We have a strong emphasis on using and developing multi-variate and multi-methodological approaches to better link neural dynamics to cognitive/behavioral dynamics.

The University of Amsterdam has ample resources for cutting-edge data acquisition and analysis. In addition, there are many opportunities for local and international collaborations.

Tasks

We are looking for highly motivated candidates with an interest in Cognitive Neuroscience and interdisciplinary research. Candidates must have an MA (or equivalent) in Cognitive Science, Neuroscience, Psychology, Physics, or Mathematics. Experience in computer programming (e.g., MATLAB) is a significant advantage, because our group uses in-house custom written matlab software. Experience in quantitative data analysis and/or neuroimaging is also advantageous. However, the most important qualities are commitment to scientific excellence, integrity, and inquiry.

The appointment will be for a period of four years (1 year plus a further 3 years after a positive evaluation) and should lead to a dissertation. Based on a full-time appointment, the gross monthly salary will be in accordance with the University regulations for academic personnel, and will range from € 2,042 (first year) up to a maximum of € 2,612 (fourth year).

The Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences (FMG) is the largest educational and research institution in the social sciences in the Netherlands. The Faculty serves 7,500 students in numerous Bachelor's and Master's programmes in Political Science, Sociology, Anthropology, Communication Science, Psychology, Social Geography, Planning and International Development Studies, and Educational Sciences. The academic staff is employed in education as well as research. There are over 1,100 employees at the Faculty, which resides in a number of buildings in the centre of Amsterdam.

Psychology

Please contact Mike Cohen (mikexcohen@gmail.com) for more information about the position and the project.