Postdoctoral researcher in rhythm cognition

A 2-year postdoc position is available for a talented researcher with an interest in computational/cognitive neuroscience and rhythm cognition.

The postdoc will be based at the University of Amsterdam in the Institute for Logic, Language, and Computation (ILLC). The ILLC is a renowned research institute at the University of Amsterdam, in which researchers from the Faculty of Humanities and the Faculty of Science collaborate on interdisciplinary research. The postdoc will work in the Music Cognition Group, supervised by Prof. Henkjan Honing. Our group studies cognitive and computational aspects of music and musicality, using a multitude of approaches, including computational modeling, machine learning, EEG, behavioural research, and animal models of cognition. The project is a collaboration between Prof. Honing (ILLC), Dr Pilou Bazin (Psychology Research Institute) and Dr Fleur Bouwer (Psychology Research Institute), funded by Amsterdam Brain and Cognition (ABC).

The postdoc will study the computational mechanisms and neural networks that underly temporal expectations. These expectations are crucial for music perception and music making. However, the mechanisms underlying rhythm processing are still ill-understood. In this project, the selected candidate will use computational modeling combined with behavioral research to study the perception and production of rhythm. In collaboration with Dr Bazin and Dr Bouwer, we may also use EEG and/or fMRI to link the models to neuroimaging data.

As a postdoctoral researcher, you will work in the stimulating environment of the ILLC, which houses world-class experts on cognitive modelling, while also being a member of a team of several closely collaborating researchers, working on the intersection of cognitive neuroscience, computational modelling, and music cognition research.

What are you going to do?

• Conducting research on the computational and (neuro)cognitive underpinnings of rhythm cognition;
• collaborating with other postdocs and faculty members;
• writing papers and presenting results at (inter)national conferences and workshops;
• (co-)supervising MSc students.

What do we require?

• PhD in (cognitive) neuroscience, psychology, computer science, or related discipline;
• experience with computational modelling and strong programming skills;
• good academic writing skills and proficiency in English, reflected in published articles;
• the ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team;
• an affinity with music, temporal cognition, auditory perception, predictive processing, and/or rhythm cognition.

Our offer

The selected Postdoctoral researcher will be employed at the University of Amsterdam’s Faculty of Humanities within the Department of Musicology and will execute the research in the ILLC. The employment contract will be for 32 to 38 hours per week for a period of 2 years (depending on expertise). The intended starting date is flexible, but latest 15 April 2021. The gross monthly salary may range from €3,491 to €4,262 on a fulltime basis, depending on experience and qualifications, in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities. This is exclusive 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% end-of-year bonus. A favourable tax agreement, the ‘30% ruling’, may apply to non-Dutch applicants.

Questions?

If you have any questions, feel free to contact:

• Henkjan Honing
• Pilou Bazin
• Fleur Bouwer           

Would you like to know more about working at the University of Amsterdam? Visit the website.

Job application

The UvA is an equal-opportunity employer. We prioritise diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for everyone. We value a spirit of enquiry and perseverance, provide the space to keep asking questions, and promote a culture of curiosity and creativity.

Does this profile sound like you? If so, we are eager to receive your application.

Applications should include the following information (in one single pdf file):

• motivation letter;
• CV, including a list of publications;
• names and contact details for two referees.

Applications must be submitted no later than 31 December 2020 via the link below.

Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed online in January 2021.

The intended starting date is 15 April 2021 at the latest.
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