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Seven Postdoctoral Positions in the Dutch Research
Consortium "Language in Interaction"
We are
looking for highly motivated postdoctoral researchers to enrich a
unique consortium of researchers that aims to unravel the
neurocognitive mechanisms of language at multiple levels. The goal is
to understand both the universality and the variability of the human
language faculty from genes to behaviour.
The
Netherlands has an outstanding track record in the language sciences.
This research consortium sponsored by a large grant from the
Netherlands Organization for Scientific research (NWO) brings
together many of the excellent research groups in the Netherlands with
a research programme on the foundations of language. Our consortium
counts four Spinoza Prize winners (van Benthem, Muysken, Cutler,
Hagoort; the Spinoza Prize is the highest science prize in the
Netherlands), three ERC Advanced Grant winners (Muysken, Levinson,
Fernández), 17 VICI/Pioneer grant holders (these are the most
prestigious personal grants that the Netherlands Organization for
Scientific Research provides; grant holders are: Bod, Ernestus, Majid,
Desain, Van den Bosch, van Lambalgen, Roelofs, Bekkering, Fernández,
Jensen, Medendorp, Toni, van Opstal, Murre, Ramsey, Schiller,
Formisano), and numerous VIDIs and ERC starting grants. The proposal
has representatives from eight universities and one research institute
within the Netherlands. These are Radboud University Nijmegen (RUN),
University of Amsterdam (UvA), University of Maastricht (UM), Leiden
University (LU), Utrecht University (UU), Erasmus University Rotterdam
(EUR), University of Twente (UT), Tilburg University (TiU), and the Max
Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics (MPI). The applicant and
co-applicants are internationally highly visible scientists in their
respective fields. Moreover they are from institutes which are highly
ranked internationally, such as the Max Planck Institute for
Psycholinguistics, the Institute for Logic, Language and Computation
(University of Amsterdam), the Centre for Language Studies (Radboud
University Nijmegen) and the Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and
Behaviour (Radboud University Nijmegen). In addition, the consortium
provides state-of-the-art research facilities. Together, this
consortium realizes both quality and critical mass for studying human
language at a scale not easily found anywhere else in the world.
In addition to the excellence in the domain of language and
related relevant fields of cognition, the research team consists of
researchers with excellence in the complex research methods that will
be invoked to address the scientific questions at the highest level of
methodological sophistication. These include methods from genetics,
neuroimaging, computational modelling, and patient-related research.
Moreover, experts in utilization of knowledge acquired in the relevant
fields are part of our team as well. Next to the applicant and the
co-applicants, our research team consists of 36 Principal
Investigators. These Principal Investigators are distributed over seven
so-called Work Packages (WPs).
Each of
the 7 WPs hereby advertised one postdoctoral position. This
postdoctoral position will be for three years in the first instance,
with a possible extension for two more years. Duties will include
coordination of Work Package activities (together with the WP leaders)
and development of an independent research programme within the
framework of the WP, and may include supervision of PhD students.
The position provides the opportunity for doing world-class research as
a key member of an interdisciplinary team, and for acquiring experience
in the management of a research group.
Requirements
for the postdoctoral positions are:
- a PhD in any relevant field
- excellent scientific track record
- excellent organizational and communicative skills
- strong motivation
- excellent skills in written and spoken English
Each WP
postdoctoral position has its own requirements and profile, which are
specified below. The appointment will be in one of the home
institutions of the consortium, depending on the research profile of
the postdoctoral researcher. In all participating institutions the
research is conducted in an international environment by researchers
from a large number of countries.
WP 1:
Speech perception and production in interaction.
We
seek a postdoctoral fellow with an established research profile that
fits the main goals of WP1. These goals are (i) to understand the
interplay between perceptual and motor processes in speech through
innovative linkage of neural, psychological and linguistic levels of
analysis and (ii) to specify the balance between what is language
universal and what is language specific in speech processing. Key
questions include (a) Are our auditory and motor cortices speech ready?
(b) How does feedback support processing in speaking and in listening?
(c) How do perception and production interact?
WP1 will
bring together expertise in the neurobiological foundations of
perceptual and motor processes with psycholinguistic expertise in the
perception and production of speech. The postdoctoral fellow
would ideally have prior experience in bridging across these domains
and should certainly be willing and able to engage in and stimulate
interdisciplinary integration. The candidate should have as many
as possible of the following: training in speech science,
psycholinguistics and/or cognitive neuroscience; expertise in
behavioural, computational and/or neuroscientific methods; and
interests in linking speech perception to speech production.
Contact
information: Prof. James McQueen, james.mcqueen@mpi.nl
WP2:
Semantic and conceptual basis of language
Memory
structures underlie semantic content and conceptual knowledge of
language users. The language system builds on existing memory
structures, which co-determine the organization of linguistic
knowledge. This work package plans to investigate interactions between
the linguistic and mnemonic domains, with a special emphasis on the
development of memory in its entanglement with linguistic behaviour.
We are looking for an outgoing, interdisciplinary postdoctoral
researcher who can bridge the gap between semantic modelling,
computational paradigms for cognition, and functional neuroimaging.
Knowledge of cross-linguistic differences in semantic systems or
behavioural studies of language users would be an advantage. The ideal
candidate has expertise in applying state of the art semantic and/or
computational models to functional neuroimaging data. Working with our
group of logical semanticists, cognitive psychologists, and
neuroscientists, he/she will investigate and develop state of the art
semantic-computational models with a view to neurobiological plausibility,
which will generate predictions that can be used to analyse
neuroimaging data.
Contact
information: Prof. Guillén Fernández, guillen.fernandez@donders.ru.nl
WP 3:
Compositionality and contextuality
One of
the major challenges in understanding the language system is to unify
abstract computational level descriptions and neurobiologically
plausible network implementations of the combinatorial aspects of
language processing. The postdoctoral researcher in this workpackage is
expected to bridge the gap between computational modelling and
experimental neuroscience. We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher
in formal and computational modelling at the level of sentence
processing (and beyond) who has also experimental skills and
neurobiological expertise. You will develop and investigate
computational models with neurobiological plausibility (e.g., spiking
recurrent networks), which are used to generate specific predictions
about the processing steps involved in sentence processing and about
their neurobiological instantiation in the brain. The successful
candidate will connect formal analysis and computational accounts with
empirical studies on binding in the language domain. Current
computational approaches (e.g., data-oriented parsing, logic programming
or unification-based models) will have to be translated into accounts
with a stronger connection to the brain and should be unified with
current theories on neural processing.
Contact
information: Prof. Rens Bod, rens.bod@gmail.com
WP4:
Language in action
Language
interacts with other cognitive functions such as perception, action,
and cognitive control. Moreover, language is situated in a highly
dynamic context provided by multimodal sources of information. The
objective of this WP is to understand language processing and its
variability during social interactions in its multimodal settings. We
aim to achieve a better understanding of the cognitive and neural
infrastructures involved in language use in social context, which
requires establishing common ground and action coordination. We look
for a postdoctoral researcher whose main interests and expertise
include topics such as multi-modal integration, simulations of action
and goals and/or cognitive control. Methodological expertise should
include computational, experimental, observational, neurobiological
and/or developmental approaches preferably within the language and/or
action domain.
Contact
information: Prof. Asli Ozyurek, asli.ozyurek@mpi.nl
WP5:
Language evolution and diversity
The goal
of this WP is to contribute to a better understanding of the biological
underpinnings of linguistic universality as well as diversity, both at
the population level (between languages and between species) and at the
individual level (within a language). We are looking for a postdoctoral
researcher in this area. The preferred area of specialization is
evolutionary modelling of language with respect to diversity in
communication. Other possible areas of expertise may include language
diversity, individual differences in language abilities, animal
communication, and genetic influences on speech and language.
Contact
information: Prof. Pieter Muysken, p.muysken@let.ru.nl
WP6:
Toolkit
We are
looking for a postdoctoral researcher with a strong technical background,
ideally in developing Neuroimaging Analysis Methods for integrating
genetics with brain imaging approaches (e.g. MRI, fMRI, and MEG). The
main task of the post-doctoral position is to develop and apply
innovative analysis methods for linking complex genome-wide association
data and neuroimaging data within a statistical framework. The
successful candidate will have experience in relevant research areas, a
track record of high-quality reviewed journal publications, strong
experience in programming, ability to work in a team, and in
sharing technical know-how and ideas. It would be desirable if the
candidate has experience in Medical Imaging (e.g. NeuroImaging)
technical research, in computational modelling of the brain, in machine
learning and/or statistical methods.
Contact
information: Prof. Jan Buitelaar, j.buitelaar@psy.umc.nl
WP7:
Utilization
We seek
an enthusiastic, multi-disciplinary researcher with a keen interest to
help translate scientific discoveries into practical applications and to
generate different kinds of value for society. Within the university
environment you will help to build ICT and other services needed to
speed and ease this process. You are required to help build awareness,
translate ideas into demos and apps, therapies or services. The
job entails project management of developers and coaching and advising
of fellow scientists. Preferably you have experience with
public-private co-operations, national and European grant schemes,
clinical applications of neuroscience, and hopefully you bring a
network of industry contacts. Next to managing the wide range of
utilization activities in the project, there is a possibility to
actively take part in a few of the developments, preferably around
mobile applications (Apps) or web services. The candidate has a
backgound in computer science, e-science, artificial intelligence,
computational linguistics, computational modelling, or experience in
programming languages and practices for mobile platforms and/or web.
Contact
information: Prof. Peter Desain, p.desain@donders.ru.nl
What we
offer:
- full-time postdoctoral research positions
- salary dependent on experience, gross salary between € 3.227 and €
4.778
- starting date preferably September 2013
- the primary workplace will be determined in agreement with your
profile
Applications
should include:
- a cover letter specifying the specific WP to which you are applying,
your motivation, research experience, interests & plans
- a curriculum vitae
- a list of publications
- the names of two persons who can provide references
The
deadline for applications: May
15, 2013
Applications
should be sent electronically to:
Prof.
Peter Hagoort
Radboud
University Nijmegen
vacatures@dpo.ru.nl
Postdoctoral
Positions--Center for the Neurobiology of Language Recovery at
Northwestern University
Applications
for post-doctoral fellows in the Center for the Neurobiology of
Language Recovery at Northwestern University are invited (start date
from April 1 to September 1, 2013). Under the direction of Dr. Cynthia
Thompson, fellows will be involved in research examining neurocognitive
mechanisms of normal and agrammatic aphasic sentence processing.
With
emphasis on the natural history of recovery of sentence deficits and
the cognitive and neural effects of treatment, studies will track
language over time using structural and functional neuroimaging (fMRI),
perfusion imaging, DTI, EEG, eyetracking and other methods. Funding for
the positions is part of a large-scale NIH supported P50 Center grant.
Individuals with a strong background in language science and a PhD in
cognitive science, cognitive neuroscience, communication sciences and
disorders, linguistics, psychology, or related fields are invited to
apply. Experience with fMRI, EEG and/or eyetracking, as well as
experience conducting experiments with language-impaired individuals is
desirable. Post-doctoral positions are for either 2 or 3 years, with
potential for advancing to Research Associate.
For more
information see the Aphasia and Neurolinguistics Research Laboratory
website: http://comm.soc.northwestern.edu/aphasia/. Applications
accepted until April 1, 2013. Send CV, cover letter, and two letters of
recommendation to Mary Cosic at m-cosic@northwestern.edu.
Postdoctoral
Positions--Department of Neurology, Mt. Sinai School of Medicine,
New York
Two
NIH-funded postdoctoral positions are available in the laboratory of
Dr. Kristina Simonyan in the Department of Neurology at the Mount Sinai
School of Medicine, New York. The research emphases of the laboratory
is on understanding the brain mechanisms of normal and disordered voice
and speech production as well as identifying the neurological
correlates of primary focal dystonias using a multi-modal neuroimaging
approach (fMRI, DTI, high-resolution MRI, PET). The specific project
will involve understanding of brain abnormalities associated with
genetic risk factors in patients with spasmodic dysphonia (or laryngeal
dystonia) using a combination of structural and functional neuroimaging
techniques, genetic analysis, clinico-behavioral testing, and genetic
testing. The postdoctoral fellow will function as part of a
multi-disciplinary team of neuroscientists, geneticists and clinicians.
Minimal
qualifications include PhD or MD/PhD in Neuroscience, Communication
Sciences or other relevant areas of biomedical research. Solid
knowledge of image processing using computational (e.g., Linux, MATLAB)
and statistical (e.g., AFNI, FSL, SPM) methods is a plus. The candidate
should be independent, self-motivated, have excellent verbal and
written communication skills, related publication records, and
sufficient experience in neuroimaging, neurological and/or
communication disorders.
Mount
Sinai Medical Center is an equal opportunity/affirmative action
employer. We recognize the power and importance of a diverse employee
population and strongly encourage applicants with various experiences
and backgrounds.
Inquires,
including candidate's CV and brief description of research experience
and interests, should be sent to Dr. Kristina Simonyan at
kristina.simonyan@mssm.edu
Two
Postdoctoral Fellowships, Institute for Mind and Brain, University of
South Carolina
Postdoctoral Fellow: Cognitive Neuroscience of Language
A post-doctoral research position is available in
the laboratory of Dr. Rutvik Desai at the University of South Carolina,
Department of Psychology. The lab focuses on cognitive neuroscience of
language, semantic memory, and embodiment using fMRI, TMS, patient
studies, and computational modeling.
Postdoctoral Fellow:
Cognitive Neuroscience of Visual Cognition
A post-doctoral research position is available in
John Henderson's Visual Cognition Lab. The lab focuses on eye
movements, attention, and visual cognition in scene perception and
reading using co-registration of eye movements with fMRI, EEG, TMS,
tDCS, along with computational modeling.
The Fellows will have an exciting opportunity to
pursue collaborative and self-directed projects at one of the
premier cognitive neuroscience centers in the country, the new
Institute for Mind and Brain (http://mindandbrain.sc.edu/).
Successful candidates will have the opportunity to interact with a
large and vibrant cognitive neuroimaging community of faculty,
post-docs, and students. In addition to excellent fMRI, TMS, tDCS, and
EEG facilities, three state of the art eyetrackers are available. One
is interfaced with the 3T Siemens Trio scanner, one with high-density
EEG, and the third is stand-alone.
Candidates with a PhD in any of the cognitive
sciences broadly defined (e.g., Psychology, Neuroscience, Computer
Science, or a related field) are welcome to apply. A research
background in cognitive science/cognitive neuroscience of language (for
the language position) or vision and attention (for the visual
cognition position) is required. Experience with one or more of fMRI,
eyetracking, lesion-symptom mapping, behavioral testing or imaging of
patient populations or children, TMS, computational modeling, or
machine learning is highly desirable. Salary will be at NIH
post-doctoral rates and commensurate with experience. Initial appointments
will be for two years with opportunity for extension to three years.
For the language position, applications should be
sent to SCDeLab at gmail dot com. For the visual cognition position,
applications should be sent to john dot henderson at sc dot edu.
Applications should include CV, brief statement of research interests,
relevant publications, and names of three referees (who will be asked
for a reference letter if necessary). The starting date is flexible,
but earlier is better. Applications will be assessed as they arrive.
The University of South
Carolina is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer. Women
and minorities are encouraged to apply. The University of South
Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment
opportunities or decisions for qualified persons on the basis of race,
color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual
orientation or veteran status.
Post-Doctoral Research
Fellowship in Cognitive Developmental Neuroscience at Georgetown
University
The
Center for Brain Plasticity and Recovery and the laboratory of
Professor Elissa Newport, director, are seeking a postdoctoral fellow
capable of taking a leadership role in a new line of research focused
on language, cognitive, and motor development after perinatal stroke,
as compared with recovery of the same functions in adults after stroke
to similar cortical areas. The research involves longitudinal
research, observing and testing infants and young children who have
suffered a perinatal stroke to the left or right hemisphere; and
cross-sectional research, observing and testing older children and
young adults who have grown up after the same type of stroke, or adults
who have experienced a comparable stroke during adulthood. Our
aim is understand how reorganization of cortical functions occurs after
stroke early versus late in life. The research will involve both
behavioral and fMRI tasks, with a particular focus on fMRI and DTI
analyses in both children and adults. Our research team includes
developmental cognitive scientists and cognitive neuroscientists, adult
and pediatric stroke neurologists, and experts in fMRI with children
and adults. Candidates with experience in both language/cognitive
development and fMRI research are preferred. The research will
take place at Georgetown University Medical Center, Children's National
Medical Center, and the National Rehabilitation Hospital, all in
Washington DC and all affiliated within the Center for Brain Plasticity
and Recovery. Start date is anytime from January through July
2013, whenever a top candidate is identified.
Interested
applicants should submit a CV and statement of research interests and
background, and request 3 letters of recommendation, sent to Professor
Elissa L. Newport, Center for Brain Plasticity and Recovery, Georgetown
University, at eln10@georgetown.edu.
Postdoctoral Position in
Cognitive Neuroscience of Language at University of Maryland
Applications
are solicited for a postdoctoral position in the Cognitive
Neuroscience of Language Lab at the University of Maryland Department
of Linguistics. Applicants should have a PhD in cognitive neuroscience,
psychology, linguistics, or a related field. Prior experience in
language processing research or fMRI is required, and experience in
both is a distinct advantage. International applicants are
welcome.
The successful candidate will contribute to
research that seeks to combine the strengths of multiple neuroimaging
and behavioral measures to understand the dynamics of language
processing in the brain. The Department of Linguistics (http://ling.umd.edu)
is part of a large and vibrant community of language scientists across
the UMD campus (http://languagescience.umd.edu/).
The department houses state-of-the-art facilities for conducting EEG
and MEG research, and a 3T MRI scanner was installed on campus in 2011
as the centerpiece of the new Maryland Neuroimaging Center (http://mnc.umd.edu/).
Candidates who could contribute to the development of fMRI analysis
routines and provide support to other members of the group in
conducting fMRI experiments are thus especially desired.
The appointment will be made for one year
beginning in Summer/Fall 2013, with possibility of renewal for a second
year. Applications will be considered until the position is filled, but
for best consideration please submit materials by March 15, 2013.
Applicants should send a cover letter, a statement of research
interests, relevant manuscripts and publications, and the names of 3
referees to Professor Ellen Lau at ellenlau@umd.edu.
Postdoctoral
Position--University of Pennsylvania, USA
The
Grossman Lab in the Department of Neurology at the University of
Pennsylvania is seeking applicants for a funded, 2-3 year postdoctoral
position using structural and functional MRI to investigate the
neuroanatomic basis for executive resources during sentence processing
in healthy aging. Preference will be given to individuals with
previous experience in the neurobiology of language, healthy aging, and
fMRI.
Please
send a CV, a representative publication, a one-page description of
research interests, and three letters of recommendation to:
Murray Grossman,
Department of Neurology - 2 Gibson
Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania
3400 Spruce St
Philadelphia, PA 19104-4283
The University of Pennsylvania values diversity
and seeks talented students, faculty and staff from diverse
backgrounds. The University of Pennsylvania does not discriminate on
the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity,
religion, creed, national or ethnic origin, citizenship status, age,
disability, veteran status or any other legally protected class status
in its employment practices.
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