Postdoctoral researcher in neural modeling and intracranial data analysis

McMaster University; Hamilton; On-site; CAD 55,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative research lab is seeking a postdoctoral researcher and PhD students to explore the fascinating intersection of rhythm, neuroscience, and cognition. This role involves analyzing complex data from deep brain stimulator implantations while patients engage with auditory rhythms. Candidates will contribute to cutting-edge research that aims to unravel the mysteries of dopamine's role in rhythm perception and movement. Join a dynamic team in a rapidly growing lab at a prestigious institution, where you will have opportunities for professional development and collaboration in a supportive and vibrant research environment. This is a unique chance to make impactful contributions to the field of neuroscience and enhance our understanding of human experience.

Benefits

Teaching and professional development opportunities

Access to conferences

Family-friendly city

Flexible start dates

Qualifications

• Strong background in data analysis and neurophysiological modeling required.
• Experience with Bayesian methods and reinforcement learning is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Refine rhythm experiments and analyze intracranial data.
• Develop models of rhythm perception and movement prediction.

Skills

Data Analysis

Neurophysiological Modeling

Bayesian Predictive Processing

Reinforcement Learning

Experimental Psychology

Computational Neuroscience

Education

PhD in Psychology

PhD in Neuroscience

PhD in Computational Science/Engineering

Job description

McMaster University, Hamilton Ontario

The METRE lab (Models and Experiments in Timing, Rhythm, and Entrainment, metre.mcmaster.ca), led by Jonathan Cannon (joncannon.net), is initiating a collaboration with Dan Bang’s group at University of Aarhus, Denmark, funded by the Human Frontier Science Program. The project will collect electrophysiological and electrochemical data from human basal ganglia during deep brain stimulator implantations while patients listen to and entrain movement to auditory rhythms. Data will be used to evaluate and develop models of the role of dopamine in rhythm perception, movement, and prediction.

Dr. Cannon is looking to welcome at least one postdoctoral researcher and multiple PhD students over the next two years. These lab members will help to refine rhythm experiments, analyze intracranial electrical and chemical data, and develop both neurophysiological and interpretive (Bayesian predictive processing, reinforcement learning) models of rhythm perception. They may also pursue other projects at the intersection of computational neuroscience/cognition, experimental neuroscience/psychology, and music perception, in a rapidly growing new Canadian lab focused on rhythm in the brain and what it can tell us about the experience of being human.

About the Postdoctoral Position(s)

• Duration: One year with possibility of one- or two-year extension
• Start Date: ASAP
• Salary: $55k CAD, potentially negotiable
• Location: McMaster University, Hamilton Ontario, Canada

About the PhD Position(s)

• Program: Psychology, Neuroscience, or Computational Science/Engineering
• Start Date: Summer or fall 2026 — earlier start date could be discussed
• Stipend: Program dependent, top-up negotiable
• Location: McMaster University, Hamilton Ontario, Canada

Research Environment

The METRE lab is a rapidly growing, international group with diverse interests and backgrounds. Graduate students and postdocs generally attend at least one conference per year, which may include COSYNE or auditory/music/rhythm-focused conferences. Postdocs will have access to teaching and professional development opportunities through the McCall MacBain Postdoctoral Fellows Teaching & Leadership Program.

Hamilton is a family-friendly city with hiking trails everywhere. 1-2hrs to Toronto by car or public transportation.

Application Process

Please submit a cover letter, a CV, and email addresses for two academic references. We will notify applicants before contacting references.

Send materials by email to Jonathan Cannon: [e-mail]

Subject line: HFSP postdoc/phd positions

The postdoc selection process may begin as early as May 1, but feel free to reach out after that!

PhD inquiries will be evaluated in fall 2025 except in unusual circumstances, but it’s never too early to establish contact!