An exciting opportunity has become available at the MRC Brain Network Dynamics Unit at the University of Oxford (BNDU) for a Postdoctoral Researcher in Computational Neuroscience.
The successful applicant will develop computational models of reinforcement learning, which describe how the brain learns the expected reward associated with certain stimuli and actions. The parameters of reinforcement learning models include learning rate, which quantifies by how much participants update their beliefs based on feedback. The project will focus on the question of how the learning rate depends on stability of the environment. Such dependence is expected, because if the environment is changeable, it is more adaptive to increase the rate of learning. Candidates should have a promising track record in original research in their particular field. Candidates are expected to have advanced technical expertise in computational neuroscience and general expertise in data analysis. They also need to be highly proficient in programming. They should provide evidence of designing and completing high quality research as part of a cohesive programme.
The postholder is also expected to contribute to the intellectual environment in the MRC Unit and in the theoretical neuroscience community in Oxford, by actively participating in seminars and meetings. The post holder is also expected to provide guidance to less experienced members of the research group, including PhD and project students.
The successful applicant will possess PhD or equivalent qualification in a relevant area (e.g. computer science, neuroscience, engineering, mathematics, physics, psychology), have expertise in mathematical modelling and data analysis and proficiency in programming.
The post is full-time for a fixed-term of 1 year in the first instance starting in April 2019.
Only applications received before 12.00 midday on Friday 26 October 2018 will be considered. It is anticipated Interviews will be held soon after the closing date.
For more information and to apply, click here
HR Officer: recruitment@ndcn.ox.ac.uk
01865 234781
