Postdoctoral Fellow: Cognitive Neuroscience of Language
A post-doctoral research positions is available in the laboratory of Dr. Rutvik Desai at the University of South Carolina, Department of Psychology. The lab focuses on cognitive neuroscience of language and neural representation of concepts using neuroimaging, brain stimulation, patient studies, lesion-symptom mapping, and computational modeling including large language models. Excellent facilities for fMRI, TMS, tDCS, EEG, and eye tracking are available, which are being augmented by a new 7T and a second 3T scanner. The Fellow will have an exciting opportunity to pursue collaborative and new self-directed projects at the Institute for Mind and Brain (http://mindandbrain.sc.edu/), the investigators in the new Brain Health Network, and Center for the Study of Aphasia Recovery. Opportunities to work on large multi-modal neuroimaging datasets that includes fMRI, for examining neural representations of concepts using LLMs, working with stroke aphasia, and collaborations with computer scientists to develop cutting-edge analysis methods using machine learning, are available.
Candidates with a PhD in any of the cognitive sciences (e.g., Psychology, Neuroscience, Computer Science) are welcome to apply. A research background in cognitive neuroscience/cognitive science relevant to semantic or language processing is expected. Expertise with fMRI analysis (one or more of AFNI/SPM/FSL and MVPA) is most desirable. Experience in one or more of brain stimulation (TMS or HD-tDCS), lesion-symptom mapping, LLMs, deep learning and other machine learning methods, behavioral testing or imaging of patient populations is also a positive, along with skills in programming and statistics (e.g., Python, Matlab, R). A promising publication record is also desirable. Salary will be commensurate with experience. Applications should include a CV, brief statement of research experience and interests, and names of three referees (who will be asked for a reference letter if necessary; actual letters are not required initially). Expected starting date is Winter/Spring 2025 but is flexible. Applications should be sent to rutvik@sc.edu and will be assessed as they arrive.
The University of South Carolina is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply. The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities or decisions for qualified persons on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation or veteran status.