Post-Doctoral Researcher in fMRI and Multimodal Neuroimaging

KU Leuven & Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), Belgium We are seeking a highly motivated post-doctoral researcher to join the interdisciplinary IBAT project: The Insular Basis of Thermoception and Social Cognition. This ambitious study explores the role of the insular cortex in thermoception and socio-emotional processing, using a combination of intracerebral EEG (iEEG), task-based fMRI, and behavioral assessments in patients with epilepsy and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). Key Responsibilities: - Conduct advanced fMRI analyses, including multivariate pattern analysis (MVPA) and functional connectivity. - Collaborate closely with the team to integrate iEEG and behavioral data for multimodal insights. - Contribute to participant recruitment and data collection at both KU Leuven and UCLouvain. - Prepare manuscripts for high-impact journals and present findings at international conferences. - Foster collaboration between the two host institutions. Profile: - PhD in neuroscience, psychology, biomedical engineering, or a related field. - Strong expertise in task-based fMRI, with hands-on experience in MVPA or similar advanced techniques. - Familiarity with interoception, thermoception, or socio-emotional processing research is an asset. - Experience with integrating multimodal data (e.g., fMRI and EEG) is highly desirable. - Demonstrated ability to publish in high-impact journals. - Willingness to work part-time at KU Leuven and part-time at UCLouvain. - Proficiency in Dutch or French is a plus What We Offer: - A dynamic and interdisciplinary research environment with access to state-of-the-art imaging facilities, including high-field MRI scanners and intracerebral EEG systems. - The opportunity to work in a collaborative team combining expertise in neuroimaging, clinical neuropsychology, and systems neuroscience. - Funding for travel to international conferences and participation in training workshops. - A competitive salary and benefits package, aligned with the guidelines of KU Leuven and UCLouvain. Closing date application: March 1st, 2025. Start date: as soon as a suitable candidate is selected. For more information, contact prof. dr. Jan Van den Stock (jan.vandenstock@kuleuven.be) or prof. Dr. Giulia Liberati (giulia.liberati@uclouvain.be).