Postdoctoral Research Associate in the Department of Neuroimaging

About us

The Social Computation and Representation Lab (SoCR Lab; www.socrlab.net) uses mathematical models and causal experimental designs to understand the fundamental rules behind human and AI social interaction in health and disorder. This is with the ultimate aim to improve psychiatric support for service users and improve the intuition, ethics, and efficiency of AI systems. We are based at the IoPPN, King’s College London, a world-leading institute well-known for its close-knit community, collaborative atmosphere, and outstanding research support.

About the role

We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with expertise in cognitive computational modelling (preferably social cognitive modelling) and an interest in cognitive neuroscience and psychiatry to join the SoCR Lab led by Dr Joseph M Barnby. You will work within a wider project funded by the Wellcome Trust that will test the social and non-social cognitive mechanisms underlying paranoia across social context, under psychopharmacological manipulation, and in those who are seeking support for psychosis. This will be with the intention to test how parameters may be biased by THC manipulations, or in support-seeking participants with a diagnosis of psychosis. The postdoctoral researcher will lead a research program focused on developing and testing the computational mechanisms of social inference, although will have plenty of scope, and will be encouraged, to develop and expand their own research interests. The postholder will work under the supervision of Co-I Dr Joseph M Barnby and also benefit from the supervision of Co-I Dr Michael Moutoussis (UCL), Co-I Amir Englund (KCL), Co-I Syeda Tahir (City) and PI Prof Mitul Mehta (KCL).

This is a full-time post (35 Hours per week), and you will be offered a fixed term contract until 31st August 2029.

About you

Essential criteria

• PhD in developmental cognitive computational science, neuroscience, computer science, or related disciplines*.
• Previous experience in social cognitive research
• Knowledge and prior experience of model simulation, recovery, and fitting of decision-making data
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work independently as well as within a team.
• Good organisational and time management skills, including ability to prioritise workload and work to deadlines.

Desirable criteria

• Coding skills and experience in one or more open-source languages  (e.g. Python, R)
• Experience in the use of neuroimaging analysis (fMRI, MRI) to study mechanisms of brain function
• Previous experience of using Bayesian methods in both model development and fitting.
• Previous experience and knowledge of research methods and study design in clinical trials.
• Knowledge of Good Clinical Practice (GCP) in clinical trials and knowledge of Research Governance Frameworks. 

* 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.*

Abigail Ryan

Recruitment Advisor for Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (School of Academic Psychiatry and School of Neuroscience) and Faculty of Arts & Humanities

Stay up-to-date with the latest recruitment documentation via the following link: https://internal.kcl.ac.uk/hr/recruitment/forms

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