Behavioural and neural investigations of human sensory and cognitive processes
The Queensland Brain Institute (QBI) was established in 2003 on the St Lucia campus of UQ, and is home to more than 450 staff and students, including 38 Group Leaders. The researchers work to understand the development, organisation and function of the brain. This is done by exploring the neural circuits in the brain, how information is processed in these circuits, how their function results in behavioural outcomes, and how dysfunction of these circuits leads to disorders such as dementia, stroke, motor neurone disease, Parkinson’s disease, anxiety and depression, and schizophrenia. Ultimately, researchers aim to develop novel therapeutic approaches to treat disorders of neural function, and to improve learning in classrooms and in the workplace.
Virtually all aspects of human behaviour are underpinned by brain processes that decode sensory input from the environment, compute information in support of learning, memory and higher cognitive processes, and control actions that enable adaptive responses. The overarching goal of this project is to characterise some of the perceptual and cognitive processes that support adaptive human behaviour, and to determine the role of specific brain areas and networks in these processes.
Despite the enormous strides that have been made in understanding human sensory and cognitive processes over the last 20 years, there are still many fundamental gaps in our understanding of how the brain regulates these processes. We now have the capacity to image the living brain using methods such as electroencephalography (EEG) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as people undertake various perceptual and cognitive tasks. This project will use these different techniques, alone and in combination, to better understand the neural processes that underpin perception and cognition.
Applications will be judged on a competitive basis taking into account the applicant's previous academic record, publication record, honours and awards, and employment history.
A working knowledge of human behavioural testing, statistical analysis, and/or computer programming would be of benefit to someone working on this project.
The applicant will demonstrate academic achievement in the field(s) of experimental psychology, sensory or cognitive neuroscience and/or computer science and the potential for scholastic success.
A background or knowledge of human behavioural testing (experimental psychology), neuroimaging, data analysis, and /or programming proficiency in MATLAB/Python is highly desirable.
To enquire about or apply for the position, email me (r.rideaux{at}uq.edu.au) with your curriculum vitae and a cover letter addressing the selection criteria. For more information on the scholarship, visit the University of Queensland website .
Applications close on April 8th 2022, the successful candidate will be selected by April 15th and will begin their PhD program in research quarter 3 (1st July) 2022.