This postdoctoral project will study the functional and neural mechanisms underlying object and scene perception. 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 take the lead in developing and performing neuroimaging experiments that characterise the neural basis of naturalistic vision. Facilities to support this project include fMRI and MEG, available at the Donders Institute.

Preference will be given to candidates with a PhD in cognitive neuroscience or a related field, who have a strong motivation to pursue a scientific career. Experience with neuroimaging techniques (fMRI or MEG/EEG) and strong programming skills are highly desirable, as is a background in high-level vision and/or attention research.

Fixed-term contract: 2 years, renewable for another 2 years.

you will be classified as a Postdoctoral Researcher 3 in the Dutch university job-ranking system (UFO).
salary will be commensurate with experience.
The earliest start date is October 2017.

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, 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.