Research Associate in the Department of Social, Genetic & Dev Psychiatry MRC

Job description

We are seeking a postdoctoral research associate in cognitive/computational neuroscience with a primary interest in EEG research and methods. The position will focus on a research project aiming to investigate a novel non-invasive method of brain modulation as a treatment for mild cognitive impairment and dementia. The successful applicant should also be open to research using datasets on other conditions, including ADHD. The ideal candidate will demonstrate enthusiasm to contribute new knowledge, openness to learn new approaches and willingness to contribute across sectors (academia, industry).

Applicants must have a PhD (or submitted at time of appointment) in a relevant area (neuroscience, engineering, cognitive psychology, mathematics, computer science) with extensive experience of EEG data analysis and coding in various programmes, including MATLAB and Python.

The successful applicant will be based at the Social Genetic Developmental Psychiatry Centre at the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, and will work closely with Dr Gráinne McLoughlin, Prof Dominic Ffytche, and our collaborators at University College Cork, led by Dr Alexander Khalil. 

This post will be offered on a full-time, fixed term contract until 31 December 2024.

Key responsibilities

• EEG data pre-processing and analysis  
• Development and implementation of computational methods 
• Coding of stimuli for cognitive tasks and auditory experiments 
• Supervision of data management and storage 
• Supervision of experimental data collection, including quality control 
• Assist with supervision of students/junior staff as required 
• Assist with preparation of reports for funder and manuscripts for publication

The above list of responsibilities may not be exhaustive, and the post holder will be required to undertake such tasks and responsibilities as may reasonably be expected within the scope and grading of the post.  

Skills, knowledge, and experience 

Essential criteria  

1. First degree (2:1 or above) in engineering, mathematics, psychology, neuroscience or a related discipline
2. A PhD in neuroscience or a related discipline or PhD near completion*
3. Knowledge and experience of EEG data, including pre-processing and analysis pipelines and evidence of use in research, including dissertations and publications
4. Knowledge of statistical modelling with experience in using statistical packages, e.g. R, and evidence of use in dissertations/publications
5. Experience with experimental and paradigm design and implementation using for example Python, Matlab or E-Prime
6. Excellent organisational skills and proven track record in delivering against important deadlines (e.g. timely submission of academic work, leading publications, dissemination activities)
7. Excellent written and verbal communication
8. Excellent interpersonal skills
9. Willing and able to learn new research skills
10. Ability to use initiative and solve complex problems
11. Ability to deal with sensitive issues and maintain confidentiality of data 

Desirable criteria

1. Experience of working with clinical populations
2. Experience of working with clinical data
3. Experience of working with auditory experimental paradigms

Please note that this is a PhD level role but candidates who have submitted their thesis and are awaiting award of their PhDs will be considered. In these circumstances the appointment will be made at Grade 5, spine point 30 with the title of Research Assistant. Upon confirmation of the award of the PhD, the job title will become Research Associate and the salary will increase to Grade 6.

Further information

This post is subject to Disclosure and Barring Service and Occupational Health clearance.

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