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Open Positions

Open PostDoc Position

The Psychiatry, Embodiment and Computation (PEAC) Lab run by Dr. Frederike Petzschner at Brown University invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher to join our team studying the computational foundations of embodied intelligence. We are particularly interested in candidates with a background in computational modeling (e.g., reinforcement learning, Bayesian modeling), behavioral task design, and neuroimaging (EEG and/or fMRI) data analysis.

The PEAC Lab investigates how brain-body interactions shape perception, learning, and affect. We approach these questions through the lens of biological intelligence— exploring how physiological states and neural processes dynamically interact to guide behavior and support mental and physical well-being. The successful candidate will lead a project focused on homeostatic reinforcement learning, delayed credit assignment, and their relevance for psychiatric disorders.

The postdoc will lead a project focused on homeostatic reinforcement learning, delayed credit assignment, and their relevance to psychiatric disorders. The position is situated in the Department of Cognitive, Linguistic and Psychological Sciences (CoPSY) at Brown University and involves human research in close collaboration with international partners.

Qualifications

We are seeking applicants with:

  • A PhD in neuroscience, psychology, cognitive science, biomedical engineering, or a related field
  • Prior experience with computational modeling of behavioral data
  • Skills in EEG and/or fMRI data analysis
  • Proficiency in programming (Matlab and/or Python; experience with jsPsych or similar platforms is a plus)
  • A track record of designing and implementing cognitive tasks in human research

Why join us?

This position is supported by multi-year core funding and is not contingent on external grants. While candidates will be encouraged to pursue individual fellowships, this is not required for the role.

The PEAC Lab is committed to mentoring early-career researchers and supporting the transition to independent research careers. (All previous postdocs from the lab have gone on to faculty positions.)

The position offers ample opportunities to collaborate with leading international labs and contribute to high-impact interdisciplinary research in computational psychiatry and embodied cognition.

How to apply

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. To ensure full consideration, we encourage submission to frederike_petzschner(at)brown.edu as soon as possible. The hiring process will be finalized by the end of June 2025.

  • CV
  • Letter of motivation
  • Names of three references

Open Lab Manager/ Research Assistant Position

The PEAC Lab (Psychiatry, Embodiment and Computation Lab) run by Dr. Frederike Petzschner at Brown University is seeking a full-time Lab Manager/Research Assistant to help lead and grow our research program on embodied intelligence and mental health. This is a unique opportunity for a highly motivated Master’s-level candidate who is preparing for a future PhD and looking to gain deep experience in research, data collection, and lab management.

Our lab studies how brain-body interactions shape learning, emotion, and psychiatric vulnerability. We use behavioral experiments, computational modeling, and neuroimaging (EEG and fMRI) to investigate the dynamic feedback loops between physiology and neural function. The successful candidate will be involved in both the coordination of large-scale human studies and their own independent research project.

Key Responsibilities

  • Oversee administrative operations and help build a collaborative lab culture
  • Organize and run clinical studies, including participant recruitment and data acquisition
  • Coordinate study timelines, documentation, and regulatory approvals
  • Program experimental tasks and assist with data collection and analysis
  • Support lab members and actively contribute to ongoing research
  • Conduct own independent research project

Who we are looking for

We’re seeking an organized, proactive, and detail-oriented person with:

  • A completed Master’s degree (required)
  • Programming experience (e.g., Python, Matlab, or similar)
  • Experience with EEG and/or fMRI is a strong plus
  • Excellent organizational and communication skills
  • A high level of integrity, self-motivation, and a collaborative mindset
  • A strong interest in computational psychiatry, neuroscience and ideally preparing for a PhD

This is a full-time position based in Providence, Rhode Island. Work is primarily conducted on campus at Brown University.

Why join us?

This position is supported by multi-year core funding, providing long-term stability independent of grant cycles. You’ll be part of a vibrant research environment at Brown University, working closely with an interdisciplinary team and gaining firsthand experience in cutting-edge human neuroscience. We are deeply committed to mentorship and professional development, and the role is designed to prepare candidates for a successful transition into competitive PhD programs.

How to apply

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. To ensure full consideration, we encourage submission to frederike_petzschner(at)brown.edu as soon as possible. The hiring process will be finalized by the end of June 2025.

  • CV
  • Letter of motivation
  • Names of three references
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