About the role
We are seeking a skilled and highly motivated full-time Post-Doctoral Research Fellow to join the Lab of Professor Elsa Fouragnan at the University of Plymouth, UK. You will work on an ARIA-funded project investigating the proof of principle that Transcranial Ultrasound Stimulation (TUS) can be used safely to regulate mood in healthy volunteers and patients, using state-of-the-art multimodal neuroimaging methods, including functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI), resting-state fMRI, and computational modelling of mood-related behaviours.
This is an exciting opportunity for a post-doctoral researcher to conduct and develop high-quality research as part of a team of internationally recognized leaders in the field. You will be supervised by Professor Elsa Fouragnan and will work closely with Neurosurgeon and Clinician Scientist Dr. Aimun Jamjoom (Barking, Havering, and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust). The role will also involve collaboration with the USA-based non-profit Focused Research Organization, Forest Neurotech, particularly with Dr. Sumner Norman and Dr. Tyson Aflalo.
The position will be based at the Brain Research Imaging Centre (BRIC), the most advanced facility in the Southwest of the UK. BRIC is equipped with cutting-edge neuroscience technology, including a 3T Prisma scanner and eight human research laboratories. These facilities include two non-invasive neurostimulation labs (TUS, TMS, tES) and an MR-compatible TUS and EEG recording system. Additionally, the role will require travel to London to assist with task setup in a clinical environment, with the potential for transatlantic travel.
This research will integrate multimodal neuroimaging and neurostimulation with computational modelling to characterize and manipulate the brain networks underlying mood. You will lead the design and execution of a combined fMRI/TUS experiment, investigating various parameters and brain regions associated with different biotypes of mood-related psychological traits. Furthermore, you will be responsible for disseminating findings through academic publications and conference presentations.
Candidate Requirements
You must hold a PhD (or equivalent) in neuropsychology, neuroscience, clinical neurophysiology, cognitive science, or a related discipline.
You must have:
Desirable skills include:
This is a full-time, fixed-term position starting on 1st March 2025, or as soon as possible thereafter, for a duration of two years (24 months), with the possibility of an additional year.
For more information on School of Psychology please visit our dedicated webpage at https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/schools
Due to the nature of the role, unfortunately we are unable to accommodate working from home.
For an informal discussion to find out more about the role then please contact Elsa Fouragnan: by email at elsa.fouragnan@plymouth.ac.uk or by telephone on 07703 335 897. Please note that applications sent directly to this email will not be considered.
For more information about the job and the person specification, please refer to the job description.
About us
The Faculty of Health holds four Silver Athena Swan awards, which recognise our commitment to supporting gender equality within higher education.
The University of Plymouth has a strong interdisciplinary research ethos which is supported by our three strategic Research Institutes; the Marine Institute, the Sustainable Earth Institute, and the Plymouth Institute of Health and Care Research. As a member of our academic community, you’ll be expected to contribute to our recognised research strengths. Working holistically across the University, you will be challenged to innovate, collaborate and deliver impactful research contributions as part of a systems thinking approach to addressing today’s global challenges.
Application Process
Please apply online, demonstrating how you meet the essential criteria outlined in the knowledge, qualifications, training, and experience elements of the job description in your supporting statement.
Following the closing date of the vacancy, you will be notified on the outcome of your application in due course.
Anticipated Interview Date: Monday 24 March 2025
Our Offer
Staff appointed within the Faculty of Health may be able to join the NHS pension scheme subject to eligibility criteria.
When joining us, you will receive:
A summary of our comprehensive benefits can be viewed here.
Additional Information
The University of Plymouth is an inclusive community where everyone is welcomed regardless of their background. To find out more about our inclusive community initiatives, such as Athena Swan and the Race Equality Charter, please visit our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion webpages.
We particularly welcome applicants from under-represented communities at the University of Plymouth, such as people with disabilities, ethnically diverse and LGBT+