Postdoctoral Research Scientist

POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH SCIENTIST

We are seeking a highly motivated candidate for this National Multiple Sclerosis Society-funded Postdoctoral Research Scientist available in the Laboratory of Dr. Victoria Leavitt to study cognitive rehabilitation in MS with an emphasis on identifying the neural substrates of cognitive dysfunction and testing targeted interventions. Current studies in Dr. Leavitt's lab test treatment interventions involving neuromodulation (tDCS), identifying electrophysiological correlates of cognitive processes using electroencephalography (EEG), and developing digital cognitive tools that are cross-culturally acceptable for people with MS. Dr. Leavitt has ongoing grant-funded studies to identify neural candidate biomarkers for cognitive impairment in MS, treatment interventions, and longitudinal studies to identify risk and protective factors for cognitive decline in MS. In addition, ongoing analysis of a cohort of 16,000+ MS patients provides a wide variety of projects for the motivated candidate.

The Postdocotral Research Scientist position is designed to provide a solid research foundation for studying cognitive rehabilitation in MS with a specific focus on the development of science-based treatments. The ultimate goal of the program is to prepare the Scientist for an independent research career. The Scientist will be involved in studies utilizing a broad range of interrelated research approaches including classic neuropsychological evaluation, experimental cognitive techniques, measurement development, clinical trial development, cognitive neuroimaging including structural and functional MRI, DTI, resting BOLD, neuromodulation and electroencephalography / event-related potentials. There is an opportunity to work with a dataset of 16,000+ patients, applying machine learning approaches. Therefore, familiarity with large data analysis is a strength.

Requirements and Expectations:

Eligible candidates for this 2-year position must have a Ph.D. or M.D. with a background in cognitive neuroscience, neuropsychology, bioinformatics, biostatistics, cognitive psychology, experimental psychology, neuroimaging, psychology, or a related discipline. Our division has a well-established record of post-doctoral training. The Scientist selected for this position will be mentored by Dr. Leavitt, and will also have opportunities to work with other faculty mentors in the Cognitive Neuroscience Division, led by Prof. Yaakov Stern, and engage with world-renowned cognitive aging researchers with expertise in modifiable risk factors, cognitive reserve, and brain resilience.

Columbia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

Pay Transparency Disclosure

The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The above hiring range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.