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://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

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 [log in to unmask]