Our daily-life visual environments, such as city streets and living rooms, contain a multitude of objects. Out of this overwhelming amount of sensory information, our brains must efficiently select those objects that are relevant for current goals, such as cars when crossing a street. The visual system has developed and evolved to optimally perform tasks like these, as reflected in the remarkable efficiency of naturalistic object detection. Little is known about the neural mechanisms underlying this efficiency. In this project, we will examine the neural basis of one or multiple factors that contribute to efficient naturalistic vision, such as object grouping, perceptual learning, context-based predictions, and attentional set. You will be expected to contribute to all aspects of the project, developing and performing neuroimaging experiments that characterise the neural basis of naturalistic vision.

Preference will be given to candidates with an MSc in cognitive neuroscience, psychology, computer science, or a related field, who are highly motivated to conduct challenging empirical research. Experience with neuroimaging techniques (fMRI or MEG/EEG) and scientific programming (e.g. MATLAB) are highly desirable.

you will be appointed as a PhD student for an initial period of one and a half year, after which your performance will be evaluated. If the evaluation is positive, the contract will be extended by another 2,5 years (i.e. a total of 4 years)
- as part of the contract, you will participate in teaching for approximately 10% of your work time
- you will be classified as a PhD candidate in the Dutch university job-ranking system (UFO)
the starting salary is € 2,222 per month on a full-time basis, the salary will increase to €2,840 per month in the fourth year (P scale);
You will be part of the Donders Graduate School for Cognitive Neuroscience.

Radboud University

Strategically located in Europe, Radboud University is one of the leading academic communities in the Netherlands. A place with a personal touch, where top-flight education and research take place on a beautiful green campus in modern buildings with state-of-art facilities.

Faculty of Social Sciences

The Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour focuses on state-of-the-art cognitive neuroscience, using a multidisciplinary approach, and offers excellent lab and neuroimaging facilities, PhD supervision and courses, and technical support. The project will be embedded in the Donders research theme ‘Perception, Action and Control’ (Dr Marius Peelen’s group, sites.google.com/site/peelenlab/). The institute offers excellent research facilities, such as access to fMRI, MEG, and other neuroimaging facilities. The Donders Institute is an equal opportunity employer, committed to building a culturally diverse intellectual community, and as such encourages applications from women and minorities.

No commercial propositions please.