JOB: Postdoc in Language Processing, Cognitive Training, and Functional Neuroimaging @ University of Maryland, College Park

Jared Novick and Susanne Jaeggi, from the University of Maryland, are seeking to hire a post-doctoral researcher to work on a project funded by the Center for Advanced Study of Language (CASL) entitled The Effects of Working Memory Training on Cognitive and Language Skills. This individual is expected to take a lead role in designing and
conducting experimental work on adult cognition, including language processing, using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). A PhD in Psychology, Linguistics, Psycholinguistics, Cognitive Science, Neuroscience, or a related field is required.

Research experience within these areas is expected alongside a solid methodological background in fMRI. Familiarity with eye tracking methods is beneficial but not required. Learning this latter technique will be a training opportunity. Programming skills are a plus but also not required.

A major thrust of the project investigates the interplay among human cognitive systems ? language, working memory, cognitive control ? and the shared neurobiological systems that support their interaction. A specific focus examines plasticity, namely characterizing how cognitive control abilities (the regulation of thought and behavior), can be improved through various forms of training. Crucially, we examine the extent to which gains observed on training tasks generalize to unpracticed tasks of complex cognition, including language processing, that rely on shared cognitive control functions. We are primarily interested in the role of the frontal lobes in cognitive control, particularly in relation to language and working memory, and how patterns of frontal activity change as a consequence of training.


The post-doctoral researcher is expected to participate fully in the intellectual life of CASL and the Psychology Department. The researcher is also expected to contribute to the interdisciplinary group of cognitive scientists at the University of Maryland, which includes faculty, post-docs, and students in Psychology, Linguistics, the Program in Neuroscience and Cognitive Science (NACS), and related disciplines.

The position is available as early as August 15 for an initial period of two years with potential extension for an additional year. Candidates must hold U.S. citizenship.

Candidates should send a cover letter, CV, relevant publications, and the names of three references with phone numbers and email addresses to: Jared Novick, Center for Advanced Study of Language, University of Maryland, 7005 52nd Avenue, College Park, MD, 20742. Materials can instead be sent electronically to jnovick1@umd.edu. Sending material by email is greatly preferred. Review of materials will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.