Job description

As a PhD student, you will develop and validate cutting edge digital assessment and monitoring tools to assess cognitive functions and behaviour for improving early dementia diagnosis and care. Early detection and continuous monitoring of cognition and behaviour has the potential to substantially enhance diagnostic accuracy and treatment possibilities.

Presently, traditional neuropsychological paper-and-pencil tasks have limitations in detecting cognitive and behavioural alterations during the initial phases of the disease, and over time.

You will be involved in research projects focusing on clinical neuropsychology and cognitive neurosciences, with a particular emphasis on utilizing computational techniques to analyze big data.

Key responsibilities include:

• Collaborating on multiple research projects investigating the brain's functioning and its relation to patient populations.
• Utilizing programming and machine learning techniques to analyze cognitive data.
• Contributing to the development and implementation of experimental protocols.
• Engaging in interdisciplinary collaboration with clinicians, researchers, and other stakeholders.
• Communicating research findings effectively through presentations and publications.

Work environment

At the Neurology Department of Erasmus MC, pioneering scientific research is conducted into unique forms of dementia, such as genetic dementia and young-onset dementia. Within the Alzheimer Center Erasmus MC, the departments of Neurology, Geriatrics, and Radiology collaborate to provide excellent patient care, conduct scientific research, and facilitate education.

Scientific research is conducted on cognitive functions and behavior such as language, executive functions, social cognition and diverse neuropsychiatric symptoms. Investigating cognitive and behavioral profiles and developing sensitive psychometric tools for dementia are central to the research conducted at the Alzheimer Center. The department's staff consists of enthusiastic, dedicated colleagues working at the intersection of scientific research and patient care.

The scientific research conducted at the Alzheimercenter is integrated into the National Dementia Strategy (Ministry of Health, Welfare, and Sport) and is part of various national and international research consortia. As a result, there is extensive collaboration with neuroscience colleagues both nationally and internationally. Within the Alzheimer Center Erasmus MC, several PhD candidates (doctors, psychologists) are engaged in dementia projects. Junior and senior researchers participate in weekly research meetings, and various informal (social) activities.

Qualifications and skills

We are seeking a highly motivated researcher with a background in preferably neuropsychology and/or cognitive neuroscience to join our dynamic team.

Preferred candidates will have experience or a keen interest in programming and machine learning, with proficiency in statistical analysis in R or Stata. Proficient fluency in Dutch is preferred due to clinical duties within the project. Experience with dementia patients and caregivers is to the candidates advantage.

You should possess strong interpersonal skills and enjoy working with people, as the role involves interaction with study participants and collaborating partners.

If you are passionate about cognitive neurosciences and clinical neuropsychology, and using computational methods to unravel the mysteries of the brain, we encourage you to apply. Join us in advancing our understanding of the brain and improving patient outcomes through innovative research.

To apply, please submit your CV and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and interest in the position.

Before you apply please check our conditions for employment.

Terms of employment

• You will receive a temporary position for 4 years.
• The gross monthly salary is € 3.017,- in the 1st year and gradually increases to € 3.824,- in the 4th year (scale OIO).
• Working from home is an option.
• Excellent fringe benefits, such as a 13th month that is already paid out in November and a individual travel expense package.
• An International Office which aids you in preparing for you arrival and stay.
• Pension insurance with ABP. We take care of approximately 2/3 of the monthly contribution.
• Special benefits, such as a incompany physiotherapist and bicycle repairer. And there is also a gym where you can work on your fitness after work.

More information

If you are excited by the thought of this position and would like to apply, please do so by using the application form on our website.

For more information about this position, please contact Jackie Poos, postdoctoral researcher, +31 (0)6 465 978 59.

No agencies please.