PhD position: Functional brain imaging of social cognition

The research is embedded in a vibrant and interdisciplinary research network. The Center Neuropsychiatry at KU Leuven operates at the crossroads of neurology, psychiatry, and cognitive neuroscience. Through an integrated, interdisciplinary approach, we investigate how brain networks support behavior, emotions, and social interaction, both in neurotypical individuals and in people with neuropsychiatric conditions. The project is conducted in close collaboration with the Research Unit Brain & Cognition at KU Leuven, known for its expertise in experimental psychology and cognitive neuroscience, and the AI Lab of VUB university, Brussels, a leading center in artificial intelligence research. Together, these partners bring complementary strengths to the study of social cognition, linking brain, behavior, and computation.

Project
As part of the Social Cognition In Silico and In Vivo (SCIVIS) project, we are looking for a PhD candidate to investigate the neural underpinnings of social cognition using functional brain imaging (fMRI/fNIRS). This cutting-edge initiative bridges neuroscience and artificial intelligence to advance our understanding of social cognition in both neurotypical individuals and those with atypical development, with a particular focus on autism and frontotemporal dementia. The position offers the opportunity to design and carry out behavioral and neuroimaging experiments, and to collaborate closely with computational scientists and experimental psychologists. You will join a dynamic research team and contribute to high-impact science at the interface of neuroscience and AI, with real potential to advance our understanding of the social brain.

As a PhD student, you will contribute mostly to the in vivo research package, including:

• Designing and conducting behavioral and neuroimaging experiments (fMRI and fNIRS) to explore social cognitive functions.
• Collecting and analyzing imaging data to investigate the brain mechanisms underlying social cognition.
• Collaborating with a multidisciplinary team and integrating findings with computational modeling efforts.
• Preparing publications for leading scientific journals and presenting at international conferences.

Profile

• Proficiency in Dutch is essential for study-related interactions with participants (minimum level B2, preferably C1).
• A Master’s degree in neuroscience, psychology, biomedical sciences, or a related discipline.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; experience with neuroimaging and statistical tools (e.g., SPM, R, Matlab) is a plus.
• Previous involvement with neurodiverse populations is an asset.
• A keen interest in the neural basis of social cognition.
• Excellent communication skills in English; previous interdisciplinary work is advantageous.

Offer

• A full-time, four-year position within a highly regarded international research group at KU Leuven.
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities for behavioral and neuroimaging research.
• Opportunities for professional development, including participation in international conferences and workshops.
• A competitive salary in line with KU Leuven’s guidelines for PhD candidates.

Interested?
To apply, please submit by June 20th:

• A detailed CV emphasizing relevant experience and skills.
• A motivation letter (max. 2 pages) outlining your interest in the position and project.
• Academic transcripts.
• Names and contact details of two referees who may be contacted for a recommendation letter.
• A writing sample (e.g., your Master’s thesis).

Interviews are scheduled for early July, with a provisional start date in October 2025, with some flexibility.

For more information please contact Prof. dr. Jan Van den Stock, tel.: +32 16 37 78 43, mail: jan.vandenstock@kuleuven.be or Prof. dr. Hans Op de Beeck, tel.: +32 16 32 60 39, mail: hans.opdebeeck@kuleuven.be.

You can apply for this job no later than June 20, 2025 via the online application tool.

KU Leuven strives for an inclusive, respectful and socially safe environment. We embrace diversity among individuals and groups as an asset. Open dialogue and differences in perspective are essential for an ambitious research and educational environment. In our commitment to equal opportunity, we recognize the consequences of historical inequalities. We do not accept any form of discrimination based on, but not limited to, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, ethnic or national background, skin colour, religious and philosophical diversity, neurodivergence, employment disability, health, or socioeconomic status. For questions about accessibility or support offered, we are happy to assist you at this email address.

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