- INFORMATION ABOUT THE POSITION
- Position: Research Assistant (RA) of a research group
- Researcher profile: Research assistant
- Number of vacancies: 1
- Research groups: Computational Vision and Reading Group within the Language and Memory Control Group
- Project: Sensotive
- Founding source: Plan Nacional
- Location: Spain > Donostia-San Sebastián
- Research field: Neuroscience > Cognition and Language
- Type of contract/Duration of Contract: Temporary, 6 months
- Job Status: Full-time
- Hours per week: 35
- Starting date: September 1st, 2026
- Application deadline: July 23rd 2026
Information about the project
Orthogonalize retinotopy and reading localizer stimulus (building on the Word-Center paradigm's goal to decouple spatial mapping from reading processes), convert the Master’s thesis document titled "Design and Validation of a Hybrid Stimulus fMRI Paradigm for Simultaneous Retinotopy and Mapping of Reading-Selective Visual Cortex" into a peer-reviewed paper, and perform advanced signal analyses (e.g., pRF modeling, NORDIC denoising, fMRIPrep preprocessing and signal separation algorithms) on the new paradigm’s BOLD time series.
Job description
The RA will be analyzing data and writing.
PI and research groups:
The Computational Vision & Reading Group with the Language and Memory Control group investigates the neural mechanisms of literacy by treating the human visual system as a complex computational gateway that links sensory input with linguistic processing. By leveraging the precise experimental control afforded by visual stimuli, we trace neural signals with high precision from the early visual cortex to specialized word-recognition regions, quantifying how signaling across retinotopic maps reconfigures during reading. Our research program integrates multi-modal neuroimaging with high-level computational modeling to bridge the gap between biological structure and computational function. To achieve this, we use functional localizers and spatio-temporal population receptive field modeling to map the exact spatial and temporal dynamics of the reading network. We ground these macroscopic brain maps in explicit biology by constructing image-computable, forward-modeling pipelines that simulate the entire biophysical cascade, from visual stimuli and retinal dynamics to final neurovascular BOLD coupling. To ensure reproducibility across cohorts, this framework is anchored by our autoROI software pipeline, which automates the identification of seven core reading-specific regions in the ventral occipitotemporal cortex, while structural imaging (diffusion and quantitative MRI) characterizes the white matter pathways connecting these centers. Ultimately, by combining these advanced neural metrics with behavioral phenotyping, the CVR Group aims to develop biophysically validated, image-computable models that define the fundamental computational principles supporting literacy and reveal the circuit-level differences that underlie the spectrum of human reading ability.
- CANDIDATE PROFILE AND SELECTION CRITERIA
Required skills:
- Writing: Strong academic writing skills in English, with the ability to draft and edit manuscripts for peer-reviewed scientific journals.
- Data Analysis: Proficiency in neuroimaging data analysis, particularly with surface-based fMRI time series.
- Retinotopy: Demonstrated experience with population Receptive Field (pRF) modeling and retinotopic mapping techniques.
- Word Localizers: Experie
- nce implementing and analyzing functional ocalizar (fLoc) paradigms to identify category-selective regions (e.g., VWFA).
- fMRI: Technical expertise in fMRI preprocessing pipelines, specifically using fMRIPrep and NORDIC denoising.
- Statistical Analysis: Proficiency in statistical modeling, including the use of linear mixed-effects models and reproducibility metrics like Lin’s Concordance Correlation Coefficient (CCC).
Desirable skills:
- Programming: Strong command of Python (Nilearn) and MATLAB (vistasoft/mrVista).
- Tools: Experience with FreeSurfer (fsnative space) and containerized workflows (Docker/Singularity) for neuroimaging.
- Language: High level of English is required as it is the corporative language of the center.
Additional considerations
Former Member Clause: Given the specific nature of this follow-up work, being a former student or member of BCBL who has already worked on the Word-Center (WC) paradigm will be considered a significant advantage.
Salary: 19.200€ gross per annum
https://www.bcbl.eu/en/join-us/what-is-like-to-work-bcbl
https://www.bcbl.eu/en/about-us
https://www.bcbl.eu/en/join-us/hr-strategy-hrs4r
https://www.bcbl.eu/en/join-us/otm-r
Training opportunities and Career development plan:
Opportunity to develop professionally in a multicultural, young and dynamic environment.
The necessary technical training for this position will be offered by the centre.
BCBL seeks to foster an environment where all talents can flourish, regardless of gender, sex, sexual orientation, age, sociocultural background, nationality or impairments. We are proud to have in place both an LGTBIQ+ Plan and a Gender Equality Plan to actively promote inclusion and equal opportunities. If you have any questions relating to accessibility or support, please contact us.
- OTHER RELEVANT INFORMATION
Language policy
- The corporative language at the centre is English, although in the research group, English is used as the language of communication within the department.
- The centre provides initial level Spanish and Basque lessons to all new staff members. This position is advertised for candidates in which a high Spanish/Basque level is NOT required.
- The interview will be conducted in English, and the candidate's level of English proficiency will be assessed during the interview process.
Submission of the application and documentation:
To submit your application, applying for “SENSOTIVE_RA" and attach the following documentation: by July 23rd, 2026:
- A curriculum vitae
- A statement outlining research interests and motivation to apply for the position
- Transcript of records for the master and bachelor degrees
- Two letters of recommendation (submitted by the referees no later than the application deadline)
Learn more about the BCBL’s OTM-R policy
Application process timetable:
- Deadline for application: 23 July 2026
- Evaluation by committee: 24 July – 14 August 2026
- Interviews: 18-19 August 2026
- Final decision: 21 August 2026
- Feedback to all applicants: 24-26 August 2026
- Work contract start date: September 1st, 2026
Contact details for enquiries:
For technical problems with the calls platform please contact: [email protected]
For inquiries or questions related to the content of the position and/or information about the project and the research group please contact: [email protected]
