Doctoral Researcher to work in a project "Cognitive and neural mechanisms for processing of memorable visual stimuli"

The recruited candidate will contribute to pioneering research on the memorability effect in memory process and its neural correlates. The successful applicant will work towards completing their doctoral dissertation within this research context. Below are the requirements for the position:

1. Educational Background:

• A Master’s degree in psychology, cognitive neuroscience, neuropsychology, or a closely related field.
• Strong foundation in cognitive psychology, neuroscience, and experimental research methodologies.

2. Research Experience:

• Demonstrated experience in experimental design, data collection, and analysis in psychology or cognitive neuroscience. Experience in behavioral studies and/or neuroimaging techniques (e.g., eye-tracking, EEG, MEG, fMRI) is an advantage.
• Publications in peer-reviewed journals or presentations at academic conferences are beneficial but not mandatory.

3. Technical Skills:

• Proficiency in statistical analysis and data visualization tools.
• Competence in programming languages such as Python, MATLAB, or R for experimental design and data analysis.
• Experience with neuroimaging software (e.g., EEGLAB, BrainVision, SPM) is highly valued, or a strong willingness to learn these techniques.

4. Communication and Collaboration:

• English is the working language. The candidate must have excellent written and oral communication skills in English to produce high-quality research reports, academic papers, and effectively engage in discussions with the team.
• Strong interpersonal skills for collaborating with an interdisciplinary research team and communicating research findings to both academic and non-academic audiences.

5. Literature Review and Experimental Design:

• Ability to search for, critically read, and synthesize relevant literature based on the research group’s previous work and ongoing research directions.
• Capable of drafting a 4-year doctoral research plan (including at least three independent studies) based on the project description and the group’s past research achievements.

6. Grant Writing Skills:

• Experience in writing project proposals and applying for external funding is an asset.
• Willingness to assist in preparing funding applications with the research group and independently, with guidance from the supervisor.

7. Motivation and Fit:

• A strong interest in memory research and cognitive neuroscience, particularly in understanding the mechanisms underlying memory processes.
• High motivation to conduct independent research within the scope of the project and contribute to the group’s overall research objectives.

8. Organizational and Time-Management Skills:

• Ability to manage multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and maintain high attention to detail.
• Strong organizational skills for balancing collaborative research activities with independent doctoral work.

The tasks of a Doctoral Researcher focus on research aiming at the completion of a doctoral thesis, doctoral studies, assisting teaching tasks, and other related tasks to these. The duties, qualification requirements, and the language skills of Doctoral Researchers are stipulated by the University of Jyväskylä Regulations and language skills guidelines (Doctoral Students). A good command of English is required. A trial period of six months will be used in the beginning of the employment.

The eligible candidate has, or is about to obtain, a suitable Master's degree. In addition, the Doctoral Researcher must have a permission for post-graduate studies at the University of Jyväskylä. If the applicant does not have permission for post-graduate studies, it must be applied with a separate application procedure from the Faculty of Education and Psychology after selection for the position.

The Faculty of Education and Psychology is a research and education unit that uses its strong traditions as a foundation for building a sustainable future. The mission of the faculty is Learning and wellbeing in building a sustainable future society. The faculty is among the top units in Finland in teacher education and psychotherapy training.

The strengths of the faculty’s internationally renowned high-quality research are learning, teaching and interaction. The faculty has five focus areas of research: Education, teaching and interventions; The psychological and neurocognitive basis of learning; Interactive and technology-enhanced learning environments; Childhood, family, interaction and wellbeing; and Wellbeing, learning and interaction at work. The faculty coordinates a number of infrastructures and networks, including the Centre for Interdisciplinary Brain Research (CIBR), the Methodology Centre for Human Sciences (IHME), the Psychotherapy Training and Research Centre, Multidisciplinary Research on Children and Families, and the Centre for Research on Learning and Teaching (CLT).

At the University of Jyväskylä, everyone can find their place in the human-centred environment of 2,600 experts and 14,700 students. Our goal is to create wisdom and wellbeing for us all. It is essential that each member of the community thrives and has opportunities to develop and grow. We cherish openness of thinking as well as the balance between research and education. Our naturally beautiful campus is located at the heart of the city of Jyväskylä. JYU is the third largest employer in Central Finland.