When it comes to brain activity (electroencephalohgraphy - EEG) based brain-computer interfaces (BCIs), the high individual variability in EEG activity patterns, caused by (bio)neurological factors, often leads to the failure of classification algorithms. Research indicates that around 30% of individuals are entirely incapable of operating a BCI, a phenomenon termed as ‘BCI illiteracy’. Consequently, while advancements in portable and user-friendly EEG headsets may make BCIs available for everyday use, and even for enhancing industrial performance in the near future, the current classification algorithms still require considerable enhancements to enable BCI use for everyone.

A key aspect often overlooked in this pursuit is the use of attentional mechanisms, such as signals that can be recorded using eye-tracking. Real-time attentional measurements could provide valuable data streams to inform the development and operation of BCIs. However, current systems do not capitalize on this wealth of information, which could be a potential game-changer for the technology. Moreover, there appears to be an excessive focus solely on algorithms rather than considering algorithms in their actual context: It is therefore crucial to obtain a further understanding of how BCIs can be used in real-world scenarios.

As a postdoc on this project you will obtain a detailed image of the brain processing and unravel features determining individual differences in BCI task performance. By employing a combination of structural MRI, EEG, and eye-tracking we want to trace the differences in elicited EEG signals between subjects, when exposed to identical stimuli, back to their respective bio-neurological basis through a technique called source localisation. The results should enable you to explain individual differences in BCI performance based on existing classification algorithms and pave the way for the development of improved classification techniques. 

• A PhD degree in biomedical engineering, robotics neuroscience or related field.
• A PhD in which you used advanced signal processing methods to study human behaviour.
• A curiosity-driven, independent researcher who is excellent in complex problem-solving and possesses critical thinking skills
• Excellent programming skills: the ability to write clean, well-documented code using e.g., in Matlab or Python.
• An excellent command of English, both spoken and written.
• Good social and communication skills.
• Preferably experience with human experiments.

Fixed-term contract: 1 year.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (salary indication: € 4.036 - € 5.090  per month gross). The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.

For international applicants, TU Delft has the Coming to Delft Service. This service provides information for new international employees to help you prepare the relocation and to settle in the Netherlands. The Coming to Delft Service offers a Dual Career Programme for partners and they organise events to expand your (social) network.

This postdoc position has a fixed-term contract of 12 months.

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context.

At TU Delft we embrace diversity as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration.

Challenge. Change. Impact!

Faculty Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering

From chip to ship. From machine to human being. From idea to solution. Driven by a deep-rooted desire to understand our environment and discover its underlying mechanisms, research and education at the 3mE faculty focusses on fundamental understanding, design, production including application and product improvement, materials, processes and (mechanical) systems.

3mE is a dynamic and innovative faculty with high-tech lab facilities and international reach. It’s a large faculty but also versatile, so we can often make unique connections by combining different disciplines. This is reflected in 3mE’s outstanding, state-of-the-art education, which trains students to become responsible and socially engaged engineers and scientists. We translate our knowledge and insights into solutions to societal issues, contributing to a sustainable society and to the development of prosperity and well-being. That is what unites us in pioneering research, inspiring education and (inter)national cooperation.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering. Do you want to experience working at our faculty? These videos will introduce you to some of our researchers and their work.