Post-Doctoral Research Associate in Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience - Strand, London, WC2R 2LS

About us:

Our group studies the intersection between social and environmental factors, brain development, and adolescent mental health and cognitive function with the ultimate aim of promoting equitable outcomes in young people. We are based at the IoPPN, King’s College London, a world-leading institute well-known for its close-knit community, collaborative atmosphere, and outstanding research support.

About the role:

We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with expertise in statistics (preferably longitudinal modelling) and an interest in developmental cognitive neuroscience or psychology to join the research team led by Dr Divyangana Rakesh. The lab is seeking someone who is passionate about developmental cognitive neuroscience and enjoys analysing data and solving statistical problems to support a project funded by the MRC. The postdoctoral researcher will lead a research program focused on studying links between socioeconomic disadvantage, brain development, and cognitive and academic outcomes using big, openly available datasets, under the supervision of Dr Rakesh.

This role will provide you with the freedom to develop new and creative ideas, methodologies, and/or approaches to challenging and societally important questions. In addition to leading the project, you will be supported in finding a research area that interests you, encouraged to develop a research programme of your own, and apply for independent funding. The postdoctoral researcher will also have teaching opportunities if this is of interest.

This role will involve:

• Implementing statistical methods to test pre-specified hypotheses on longitudinal development and outcomes.
• Selecting and implementing further analyses as appropriate
• There will be an opportunity to suggest further research questions and implement appropriate analyses
• Writing manuscripts in order to disseminate research findings.
• Problem solving and assisting Dr Rakesh investigate new research strategies and ideas.
• Present summaries of study updates at internal meetings and meetings with external collaborators, and at national and international conferences.
• Mentoring undergraduate and masters students
• Work as a conscientious and committed member of the team in order to achieve the aims of the project. 
• Managing and organising own workload. It is the postdoc’s responsibility to make sure that deadlines are met and the necessary resources are available for the job at hand.
• Other relevant activities as directed by the line manager.

This is a full-time post, 35 Hours per week, and you will be offered a fixed term contract until 30th June 2028.

To apply, please provide a cover letter, an updated curriculum vitae, and contact information for 3 references. Cover letters should directly address all essential (and desirable if possible) criteria and describe the following: 1) past research experience and contributions to science, 2) relevance of research experience for current position, and 3) career development plans. Please contact Dr Divyangana Rakesh ( ) with any enquiries.