Two post-doctoral positions available in human neuroimaging focusing on
brain connectivity dynamics and cognitive control
We seek two post-doctoral fellows to work on studies using functional
MRI (fMRI) and/or computational modeling of brain connectivity dynamics
(graph theory/network science) investigating cognitive control. We are
especially interested in investigating neural mechanisms of highly
adaptive cognition – such as the human ability to rapidly learn new
tasks from instructions. See Cole et al., 2013 (/Nature Neuroscience/)
<http://www.mwcole.net/pubs/2013_Cole_NatNeurosci.pdf>
[
http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/nn.3470] for our recent work identifying
flexible hubs that facilitate highly adaptive cognition. Human
neuroimaging studies will focus on identifying local (within-region) and
global (multi-network) connectivity mechanisms facilitating first-trial
task learning and other forms of highly flexible cognition (e.g.,
involving lateral prefrontal cortex). This will primarily involve
functional connectivity analyses using fMRI (during rest and task).
Computational modeling will involve biologically realistic neuronal
network models implementing first-trial learning and other forms of
highly flexible cognition in order to test the plausibility of proposed
mechanisms – and expanding computers into a computational realm
currently only occupied by humans (i.e., creating artificial
intelligence by investigating natural intelligence). Further,
computational modeling will involve application of statistical
techniques to find ways to detect newly identified mechanisms using
neuroimaging, in order to test predictions made by the models. The
positions will be at Rutgers University in Newark, NJ (13 miles from New
York City, NY) and located in a newly renovated laboratory space in the
Center for Molecular and Behavioral Neuroscience (CMBN), in the same
building as the new Rutgers University Brain Imaging Center.
Preferred attributes of candidates:
1) Strong computer programming skills; 2) Strong statistical analysis
skills; 3) Excellent writing (and general communication) skills; 4) A
consistent passion for learning and making discoveries in neuroscience
(or related fields); 5) Expertise (a PhD) in behavioral, neuroimaging,
network science, and/or computational modeling research. The ideal
candidate will have expertise in at least one of the areas described
above (e.g., cognitive control, brain imaging, network analysis,
computational modeling) with interest in being trained in one or more of
the other areas.
For more information on the lab's research visit
http://www.mwcole.net
<http://www.mwcole.net/>
Start date is flexible, but is anticipated to be between April and
December 2014.
The deadline for applying is December 1, 2013.
If interested send your CV and a cover letter with an overview of your
background and career goals, along with names and emails of potential
recommenders to mwcole(a)mwcole.net <mailto:mwcole@mwcole.net>