Research Associate in Cognitive Neuroscience of Memory

We are seeking to employ a Research Associate in Cognitive Neuroscience of Memory to work on an exciting new MRC-funded project based on the laboratory of Dr Alex Kafkas (University of Manchester), in collaboration with Dr Adrian Parry-Jones (University of Manchester & Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust) and Dr Nelson Trujillo-Barreto (University of Manchester). The project combines neuropsychological investigation, neuroimaging (MRI, DTI, resting-state fMRI and task-based fMRI) and computational methods (graph-theory, machine learning and connectivity) to explore the functionally heterogenous role of the thalamus in memory.

We are seeking a researcher with strong record of relevant research in cognitive neuroscience, neuroimaging or neuropsychology. You should have a PhD (or equivalent) in Cognitive/Computational Neuroscience, Psychology, Neuropsychology or a closely allied discipline. Previous experience with neuroimaging methods in memory research is highly desirable. Familiarity with programming languages (e.g., MATLAB, python or R) is also desirable. This post is funded for a period of 3 years.

During this position, the post-holder will undertake a range of activities including:

• Design experimental tasks to assess memory functions
• Neuropsychological assessment of thalamic stroke patients and healthy individuals
• Design and implement tasks for fMRI experiments with healthy participants
• Analysis of neuropsychological and neuroimaging data
• Conduct manual anatomical segmentation of regions of interest (thalamic nuclei, medial temporal lobe)
• Support in recruiting patients and healthy participants
• Present research findings at international conferences
• Conduct literature review and write up research work for publication

What you will get in return:

• Fantastic market leading Pension scheme
• Excellent employee health and wellbeing services including an Employee Assistance Programme
• Exceptional starting annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays
• Additional paid closure over the Christmas period
• Local and national discounts at a range of major retailers

As an equal opportunities employer we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status.  All appointments are made on merit.

Our University is positive about flexible working – you can find out more here

Hybrid working arrangements may be considered.          

Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs or applications from Recruitment Agencies.

Any recruitment enquiries from recruitment agencies should be directed to People.Recruitment@manchester.ac.uk.

Any CV’s submitted by a recruitment agency will be considered a gift.

Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews:

Name: Dr. Alex Kafkas

Email: alexandros.kafkas@manchester.ac.uk 

General enquiries:

Email: People.recruitment@manchester.ac.uk

Technical support:

https://jobseekersupport.jobtrain.co.uk/support/home

This vacancy will close for applications at midnight on the closing date.

Interviews will be conducted in early January.

Please see the link below for the Further Particulars document which contains the person specification criteria.