Connectionists: Postdoctoral Research Fellowship - Hierarchical Reinforcement Learning

[Clay Holroyd]

Postdoctoral Research Fellowship - Hierarchical Reinforcement Learning

Learning and Cognitive Control Laboratory
Department of Psychology
University of Victoria, Canada
http://web.uvic.ca/~lccl/

The Learning and Cognitive Control Laboratory is recruiting a postdoctoral fellow to conduct research in computational cognitive neuroscience. The successful candidate will contribute to the development of a computational model of anterior cingulate cortex based on principles of hierarchical reinforcement learning theory. They will be joining an active laboratory that is investigating a range of topics including cognitive control, decision making, attention, spatial navigation, and continuous motor control, in normals as well as in special populations (e.g., children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, substance abusers). The laboratory provides state-of-the art event-related brain potential facilities and opportunities for behavioral, functional magnetic resonance imaging and genetics research. The candidate will also have access to Westgrid, a high-performance computing network that encompasses 14 partner institutions across four provinces.

Applicants must have a PhD in computational cognitive neuroscience or a related discipline. A background in reinforcement learning theory and familiarity with issues in cognitive neuroscience are preferred. The post is funded for two years with potential for re-funding; salary will be commensurate with experience.

The position will be available starting September, 2011, but applications will be reviewed until the position is filled. To apply, email a curriculum vitae, statement of research background and interests, and have 3 referees forward letters of recommendation to Jenny Macsween at macsween at uvic.ca .

The University of Victoria is located on beautiful Vancouver Island, in close proximity to Vancouver, BC, and Seattle, WA. Victoria is the provincial capital of British Columbia and provides a wealth of cultural and outdoor recreation opportunities.