Postdoctoral Research Associate

University of Oxford - Department of Experimental Psychology

Location: Life and Mind Building

The Department of Experimental Psychology has an exciting opportunity for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join the Neuromodulatory Systems and Cognition Laboratory.

This role is fixed term for 3 years, and available from 7 April 2026. It is a full-time role, working 37.5 hours per week.

The role

The post-holder will lead a new research project in the Laboratory investigating how dopaminergic and serotonergic systems interact in the primate frontal cortex to support learning and decision-making.

About the department

The Department of Experimental Psychology is a large, internationally recognised department with a high volume of academic activity and a fast-paced, research-driven culture. The department has recently moved to its new home in The Life and Mind building. This exciting development provides exceptional research and teaching facilities along with space for public engagement and outreach. It also offers renewed commitment to work across disciplinary boundaries to further knowledge across the psychological and biological sciences and to solve major global challenges.

About you

You will hold a PhD/DPhil (or be close to completion) in neuroscience, psychology, computational neuroscience, biomedical engineering, or a closely related quantitative STEM discipline. A strong background in cognitive, behavioural, and/or systems neuroscience, with relevance to learning, decision-making, or other higher cognitive processes and experience of designing behavioural tasks and analysing behavioural data is also required. You will be able to demonstrate knowledge of neuromodulatory systems and their role in cognition and behaviour along with strong quantitative and communication skills.

Application and interview process

Applications for this vacancy are to be made online. You will be required to upload a supporting statement addressing the selection criteria, your CV, and the contact details of two referees as part of your application. Your application will not be processed if you do not include both a CV and a supporting statement.

The closing date for applications is midday on Friday 20 February 2026 and only applications received by this date will be considered. Interviews will be held in March 2026.

The University of Oxford is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from individuals regardless of their background. We are committed to equality and valuing diversity.