Job description
The proposed research project deals with perceptual blindness, in which an observer is unaware of information presented to the senses. In some cases, this ‘subliminal’ information can still influence behavior. It is currently unknown what determines whether this information has such an influence. The goal of the proposed research is to unravel the conditions in which blind information affects perception, and when it does not. This will be tested by perceptual and motor measures in normal observers and patients suffering from clinical blindness. The findings will be crucial to constrain models on the underpinnings of (un)conscious visual perception.
You will design and conduct experiments on cognitive processes. The research will be reported in articles which will be submitted to relevant scientific journals. After 4 years the research should lead to a PhD thesis. You will participate in the education program of the Helmholtz research school.
Requirements
We are looking for enthusiastic, and ambitious candidates with a master’s degree in cognitive, neuro- or biological psychology, cognitive neuroscience or in a comparable scientific discipline. Experience with conducting psychophysical and oculomotor experiments as well as strong programming skills will be advantageous.
Conditions of employment
We offer a temporary fulltime appointment for one year. After a positive evaluation the appointment will be extended to a total of four years maximum. Your gross salary starts with € 2,042.- per month in the first year and increases to € 2,612.- per month in the fourth year of employment.The salary is supplemented with an annual holiday pay of 8% and an end-of-year bonus of 8,3% per year. Other secondary conditions include e.g. a pension scheme, partially paid parental leave, and flexible employment conditions.
Organisation
The Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences of Utrecht University in the Netherlands carries out relevant scientific research of a very high quality and provides challenging academic teaching in the fields of human behaviour and society. The Faculty’s research and teaching contribute to a critical reflection on society, human behaviour and their interconnection. More than 5,650 students follow a broad range of undergraduate and graduate (academic and research) programmes, set up by a collaboration of five departments: interdisciplinary social science, sociology, methodology and statistics, pedagogical and educational sciences, and psychology. As a result of the Faculty’s wide variety of programmes and innovative and groundbreaking research, some 750 staff members have ample opportunity to benefit from each other’s knowledge and expertise.
Additional information
For information about the position or a description of the projects and proposal, please contact dr. Chris Paffen (c.l.e.paffen [ à ] uu.nl; +31 30 253 3372) or dr. Stefan van der Stigchel (s.vanderstigchel [ à ] uu.nl; +31 30 253 3356)
Direct link to this job opening: www.academictransfer.com/11477