Dr. Elizabeth Chrastil, PI of the Spatial Neuroscience Laboratory in the Department of Neurobiology & Behavior at the University of California, Irvine, is seeking two postdoctoral researchers for the coming year. The Spatial Neuroscience Lab uses dynamic and interdisciplinary research methods to answer questions about how the brain processes information to keep us oriented as we navigate through a complicated world. Our primary techniques are fully immersive virtual reality and neuroscience brain imaging using multimodal magnetic resonance imaging (structural MRI, fMRI, diffusion imaging, resting state) and electroencephalography (EEG).

  1. One postdoc position relates to projects that focus on the basic neuroscience of navigation, learning, and memory, as well as clinical and translational applications. Numerous opportunities for exploration and the development of creative data science approaches are available. A very strong statistical background is highly desired. Lab and institutional resources include a new research-dedicated 3T Siemens Prisma scanner, an active Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, and a newly established sleep center. In addition to working on new projects, there are also abundant opportunities to work with existing data across multiple research programs. Requirements for the position include: a Ph.D. in neuroscience or related field, strong background in MRI data analysis including multivariate methods (multivariate pattern analysis/representational similarity analysis), and demonstrable skill in one or more programming languages (e.g. Matlab or Python). Exceptionally strong statistical skills are highly desired. The successful applicant would have a strong first-author publication record and a demonstrable interest in learning and memory. Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, are a must. A desire to mentor and teach graduate and undergraduate students in the lab is also a plus. Beyond qualifications and skills, the successful applicant should be collaborative, resourceful, and productive and must be able to manage multiple research projects with ease and have an eye for common approaches and themes.
  2. The other postdoc position relates to projects that focus on the underlying representation of spatial knowledge and individual differences in navigational ability, primarily using virtual reality techniques but also in combination with neuroimaging. Numerous opportunities for exploration and the development of creative data science approaches are available. A very strong statistical background is highly desired. Lab resources include a large ambulatory virtual reality space with wireless tracking. There are abundant opportunities for collaborative work with other researchers across the university. Requirements for the position include: a Ph.D. in cognitive science or related field, strong background in data analysis methods, and demonstrable skill in one or more programming languages (e.g. Matlab or Python). Exceptionally strong statistical skills are highly desired. The successful applicant would have a strong first-author publication record and a demonstrable interest in navigation, learning, and memory. Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, are a must. A desire to mentor and teach graduate and undergraduate students is also a plus. Beyond qualifications and skills, the successful applicant should be collaborative, resourceful, and productive and must be able to manage multiple research projects with ease and have an eye for common approaches and themes.

In addition to lab funding, candidates may also qualify for support through T32 institutional training grant mechanisms, postdoc NRSA, and collaborative projects. Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled. Salary is based on NIH pay scales and experience. Start date is in the fall of 2019 but is flexible. Initial appointment is for one year at 100% time, with a comprehensive benefits package. Continuation beyond one year will be based on performance and availability of funding.

Qualified candidates should submit: 1) cover letter describing your qualifications, 2) Curriculum Vitae detailing your research experience, and 3) names and contact information for three references who can provide letters upon request. Submit applications electronically at https://recruit.ap.uci.edu/JPF05438.

For more information about this position, contact Dr. Elizabeth Chrastil at chrastil@uci.edu. For information on the Spatial Neuroscience Laboratory, go to https://chrastil.geog.ucsb.edu

The department is especially interested in candidates who can contribute to the diversity and excellence of the academic community through research. teaching and service. The University of California, Irvine is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer advancing inclusive excellence. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories covered by the UC nondiscrimination policy.