Memory and Decision Making (Postdoctoral Position in Functional Imaging)
Dobbins Lab, Dept. of Psychology
Washington University in Saint Louis

A postdoctoral position examining strategic retrieval of memories and memory-related decision-making is available beginning late Fall 2007. Our research focuses on several aspects of memory and decision-making, in particular, the potential roles of prefrontal cortex and basal ganglia in explicitly and implicitly influencing memory-guided behavior. The primary tool is functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) although behavioral studies and work with special populations is also conducted.

The university houses state-of-the-art facilities including several research dedicated scanners at the Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology (www.nil.wustl.edu), over 900 square feet of newly equipped laboratory space in the Department of Psychology (www.psych.wustl.edu), and an in house Imaging Analysis Center (IAC). The successful candidate will become an integral member of the department and have the opportunity to develop collaborative projects with some of the top behavioral and neuroscience researchers examining memory and cognitive control.

Extensive experience with functional imaging is not required, although a strong background in behavioral research of memory and/or decision-making is preferred. Applicants should send a cover letter, CV, and contact information for three references to idobbins@wustl.edu

Contact Information:
Ian Dobbins
Department of Psychology
Campus Box 1125
St. Louis, MO 63130-4899
http://dobbinslab.psych.duke.edu/
 
 
Interested in a part time research assistantship or work-study opportunity in cognitive and brain imaging research? We are looking for a motivated individual to help in the development and supervision of experiments investigating the cognitive neuroscience of memory. Duties include: managing basic laboratory tasks, writing experimental computer programs using MATLAB, scheduling and running subjects in behavioral studies, and aiding in the conduct of functional magnetic resonance imaging research. Previous programming experience is not necessary, as long as the applicant is works well with computers in general. This job is a great opportunity to get in depth exposure to all aspects of cognitive neuroscience research, from the initial conception of a hypothesis to journal publication. Applicants can also expect to gain valuable computer skills while working in a laid-back atmosphere. Please contact Dr. Ian Dobbins (ian#psych.duke.edu)(#=@) to find out about laboratory positions.
 
 

 
Do you want to earn spare cash while helping us learn more about the cognitive neuroscience of memory? We conduct both behavioral and imaging research throughout the year. Please email Sanghoon Han (sanghoon.han#duke.edu)(#=@), (919) 660-5674 if you would like to find out more, and/or if you would like to be added to our email list in order to be notified about upcoming studies.
   
    Behavioral Research
    Our behavioral studies involve observing words or pictures on a computer screen, performing simple cognitive tasks with those items, and pressing a button in response. These studies pay $10 and last under an hour.
   
    functional Imaging Research
   
Our lab also conducts functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) research. In these basic memory experiments, the subject is presented with words or pictures on a computer screen, and must respond by pressing buttons. The imaging experiments are very similar to the behavioral studies, except that they are performed inside an MRI machine. Subjects in our imaging studies are paid $40 total for approximately 2 hours of their time (1 hour in the scanner plus 30-60 minutes of preparation and debriefing). Female participants are required to have a pregnancy test taken 1-2 days before the experiment. Pregnancy testing is done free of charge at Duke Hospital.