"Research Fellow in Computational Psychiatry"

About us

The Max Planck UCL Centre for Computational Psychiatry and Ageing Research (MPC) is dedicated to studying the causes of psychiatric disorders as well as the causes of individual differences in cognitive development.

The overarching goal of the MPC is to understand the cognitive and neural underpinnings of neuropsychiatric disorders. Computational models of differences and changes in brain-behaviour relations are the Centre’s major theoretical tool. The Centre’s findings will provide information on how cognitive functioning can be maintained into old age and on how psychiatric disorders can be better recognised and treated more efficiently.

About the role

We are looking for a Research Fellow to join the RELMED project aiming to understand which computational (reinforcement learning) mechanisms are engaged by different antidepressant treatments.

You will co-lead the imaging component of the project, focusing on electroencephalography (EEG) combined with advanced computational modelling. You will work closely with the Chief Investigator, Professor Quentin Huys, who will provide line management and supervision. You must be able to work onsite at UCL and travel to participating study sites as required.

The role is available immediately and funded by Wellcome for two years in the first instance with the possibility of extension, subject to successful funding renewal.

To apply, please upload a current CV, complete the online application form, and use the supporting statement section or upload a cover letter to outline how you meet the essential and desirable criteria for the role. Please do not upload any additional attachments as these will not be considered by the selection panel.

About you

You’ll have a PhD in computational neuroscience, psychology, cognitive neuroscience, or a related area, coupled with experience of conducting neuroscience research demonstrated by a strong publication record with high-quality outputs. Experience with mathematical programming (e.g., MATLAB, R, Python, Java) and good communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills are also required for this role.

This role meets the eligibility requirements for a skilled worker certificate of sponsorship or a global talent visa under UK Visas and Immigration legislation. Therefore, UCL welcomes applications from international applicants who require a visa.

What we offer

The role is offered on UCL Grade 7 with salary in the range of £45,103 - £52,586 per annum including London Allowance.

Appointment as Research Fellow is dependent upon having been awarded a PhD; if this is not the case, initial appointment will be as Research Assistant (salary £39,148 - £41,833 per annum) with appointment as Research Fellow being backdated to the date of final submission of the PhD thesis.

As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer great benefits; visit https://www.ucl.ac.uk/work-at-ucl/reward-and-benefits to find out more.

This appointment is subject to UCL Terms and Conditions of Service for Research and Professional Services Staff.

Customer advert reference: B02-09886