The Department of Psychology is seeking to recruit a Doctoral Researcher to join a Research Council of Finland project "Cognitive and neural mechanisms for processing of memorable visual stimuli" led by Academy Research Fellow Chaoxiong Ye (https://www.jyu.fi/en/people/chaoxiong-ye). The one-year position will start on 1.4.2025 or as agreed.

Project description

Recent research indicates that certain images, due to their high memorability, are more easily remembered by individuals, even if they have not seen the images before. However, how this inherent memorability influences the formation of long-term memory remains unclear. This project will investigate the following key questions by measuring behavioral performance, tracking eye movements, and recording brain activity: What are the cognitive mechanisms underlying the effect of memorability on short-term memory? If stimuli are more memorable in short-term memory, does this lead to more robust long-term memory traces? What is the neural basis for the effects of memorability on memory formation? This research will deepen our understanding of memorability and, in the long term, contribute to the development of educational methods that enhance learning and memory retention. Additionally, it may lead to more effective diagnostic and intervention strategies for individuals with memory impairments.

Tasks and Responsibilities

The recruited PhD student will engage in cutting-edge research in the field of memory processes, contributing to the following tasks:

Undertaking coursework related to the subject field as part of their doctoral studies.
Designing experimental stimuli and programming experimental tasks based on the project's plan.
Collaborating with group members to collect and preprocess behavioral and neuroimaging data (e.g., EEG, eye-tracking).
Analyzing experimental data, identifying issues, and adapting solutions as needed.
Writing research papers, technical reports, and contributing to research dissemination.
Collaborating with other team members within the project and related research areas.
Assisting in applying for external research funding, independently or under the guidance of the supervisor.
Supporting the supervisor in supervising junior researchers and managing ongoing projects.

Who we are looking for

The recruited candidate will contribute to pioneering research on the memorability effect in memory process and its neural correlates. The successful applicant will work towards completing their doctoral dissertation within this research context. Below are the requirements for the position:

1. Educational Background:

A Master’s degree in psychology, cognitive neuroscience, neuropsychology, or a closely related field.
Strong foundation in cognitive psychology, neuroscience, and experimental research methodologies.

2. Research Experience:

Demonstrated experience in experimental design, data collection, and analysis in psychology or cognitive neuroscience. Experience in behavioral studies and/or neuroimaging techniques (e.g., eye-tracking, EEG, MEG, fMRI) is an advantage.
Publications in peer-reviewed journals or presentations at academic conferences are beneficial but not mandatory.

3. Technical Skills:

Proficiency in statistical analysis and data visualization tools.
Competence in programming languages such as Python, MATLAB, or R for experimental design and data analysis.
Experience with neuroimaging software (e.g., EEGLAB, BrainVision, SPM) is highly valued, or a strong willingness to learn these techniques.

4. Communication and Collaboration:

English is the working language. The candidate must have excellent written and oral communication skills in English to produce high-quality research reports, academic papers, and effectively engage in discussions with the team.
Strong interpersonal skills for collaborating with an interdisciplinary research team and communicating research findings to both academic and non-academic audiences.

5. Literature Review and Experimental Design:

Ability to search for, critically read, and synthesize relevant literature based on the research group’s previous work and ongoing research directions.
Capable of drafting a 4-year doctoral research plan (including at least three independent studies) based on the project description and the group’s past research achievements.

6. Grant Writing Skills:

Experience in writing project proposals and applying for external funding is an asset.
Willingness to assist in preparing funding applications with the research group and independently, with guidance from the supervisor.

7. Motivation and Fit:

A strong interest in memory research and cognitive neuroscience, particularly in understanding the mechanisms underlying memory processes.
High motivation to conduct independent research within the scope of the project and contribute to the group’s overall research objectives.

8. Organizational and Time-Management Skills:

Ability to manage multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and maintain high attention to detail.
Strong organizational skills for balancing collaborative research activities with independent doctoral work.

The tasks of a Doctoral Researcher focus on research aiming at the completion of a doctoral thesis, doctoral studies, assisting teaching tasks, and other related tasks to these. The duties, qualification requirements, and the language skills of Doctoral Researchers are stipulated by the University of Jyväskylä Regulations and language skills guidelines (Doctoral Students). A good command of English is required. A trial period of six months will be used in the beginning of the employment.

The eligible candidate has, or is about to obtain, a suitable Master's degree. In addition, the Doctoral Researcher must have a permission for post-graduate studies at the University of Jyväskylä. If the applicant does not have permission for post-graduate studies, it must be applied with a separate application procedure from the Faculty of Education and Psychology after selection for the position.

Benefits

At the University of Jyväskylä, you are a recognized member of our community with a unique opportunity to influence international research. You get to participate in our international and multidisciplinary community where the welfare of each individual is important. At the University of Jyväskylä, we offer a great and lively campus area with opportunities to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle.

Finland has a high standard of living, with free schooling (also in English), affordable childcare, good family benefits, and healthcare. Jyväskylä is located in central Finland in the Finnish lakeland and has excellent opportunities for different nature, outdoor, and sports activities. The city of Jyväskylä is a major educational center and the city has a large student population. As such there is a vibrant cultural scene in the city. To find useful information about the University of Jyväskylä, the City of Jyväskylä and living in Finland, see the University's International Staff Guide.

The salary for a Doctoral Researcher is determined based on the task-specific demand level 2–4 of the university salary system for teaching and research staff. The starting salary will be approximately 2500 €/month (gross income). With progress of thesis work, the salary will be revised in accordance with the Collective Agreement of Finnish Education Employers.

How to apply?

The application documents that should be included in English and in PDF format:

A Curriculum vitae, composed according to good scientific practice and considering the template for researcher´s curriculum vitae by The Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity.
A short and informal motivation/cover letter (max 2 pages), including your research interests, career goals and previous experience and merits in relation to the qualifications for this position.
Degree certificate (highest degree).
Research plan (please see the suggested template for a research plan.)
List of publications based on the guidelines of the Research Council of Finland: https://www.aka.fi/en/research-funding/apply-for-funding/how-to-apply-for-funding/az-index-of-application-guidelines2/list-of-publications/
Letters of recommendation from at least two academic referees, preferably professors or research supervisors familiar with the candidate's work.

Applicants are kindly asked to submit their applications using the online application form by 15.1.2025 Applications sent via emails are not considered.

For further information, please contact Academy Research Fellow Chaoxiong Ye, chaoxiong.c.ye@jyu.fi

We offer good working conditions for researchers and promote the principles of HR Excellence in Research, HRS4R. The Human Resources Strategy for Researchers (HRS4R) is based on the values of the European Charter for Researchers & The Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers (Charter & Code). JYU is committed to fairness, consistency and transparency in selection decisions, and undertakes the recommendations for the responsible evaluation of a researcher in Finland. JYU has signed the DORA Declaration. By signing the agreement, JYU is committed to complying with the CoARA principles.

Our application process is transparent, professional and international. We communicate openly with the applicants throughout the recruitment process. All appointment decisions are based on careful consideration within the faculty. We value equality and diversity in our work community and encourage qualified applicants, regardless of background, to apply for this position.

Department of Psychology

The Faculty of Education and Psychology is a research and education unit that uses its strong traditions as a foundation for building a sustainable future. The mission of the faculty is Learning and wellbeing in building a sustainable future society. The faculty is among the top units in Finland in teacher education and psychotherapy training.

The strengths of the faculty’s internationally renowned high-quality research are learning, teaching and interaction. The faculty has five focus areas of research: Education, teaching and interventions; The psychological and neurocognitive basis of learning; Interactive and technology-enhanced learning environments; Childhood, family, interaction and wellbeing; and Wellbeing, learning and interaction at work. The faculty coordinates a number of infrastructures and networks, including the Centre for Interdisciplinary Brain Research (CIBR), the Methodology Centre for Human Sciences (IHME), the Psychotherapy Training and Research Centre, Multidisciplinary Research on Children and Families, and the Centre for Research on Learning and Teaching (CLT).

At the University of Jyväskylä, everyone can find their place in the human-centred environment of 2,600 experts and 14,700 students. Our goal is to create wisdom and wellbeing for us all. It is essential that each member of the community thrives and has opportunities to develop and grow. We cherish openness of thinking as well as the balance between research and education. Our naturally beautiful campus is located at the heart of the city of Jyväskylä. JYU is the third largest employer in Central Finland.

Phone: (014) 260 1211

Email: jy-rekrytointi@jyu.fi

Location: Seminaarinkatu 15

Information for the applicant

The application form cannot be saved as draft. However, after submitting you can return to edit your application via the link you receive by email. The application can be edited until the application deadline.

You have 6 hours to complete your application before the timeout.