• Based at our Melbourne, Burwood Campus + hybrid work arrangements
• Full-time and fixed-term for 12 months, with the possibility of extension up to 3 years.
• Level A $80,065 - $107,633 + 17% Superannuation (pro rata, part time)

Who are we?

Deakin’s School of Psychology is one of the largest in Victoria, home to leading research centres and expert academics who are recognised for their contributions to the field. Our strong industry partnerships and global academic collaborations provide unique opportunities for researchers to engage in applied research and work with external organisations to translate findings into action. We offer an environment that fosters innovation, with opportunities to work on cutting-edge projects across a wide range of psychology disciplines. Our school is committed to advancing psychological knowledge and offers a dynamic research culture, providing valuable career and networking opportunities for researchers at all stages of their careers.

About the position:

The Associate Research Fellow will be responsible for pooling and analysing datasets as part of an international collaboration (ENIGMA consortium – Puberty Working Group) that explores how hormonal and physical changes during puberty are linked to the structural and functional maturation of the adolescent brain. This project will also examine how these biological changes impact cognition and mental health during adolescence. The Associate Research Fellow will play a central role in synthesising neuroimaging (MRI) data collected by researchers worldwide to address these research questions. The incumbent will also develop expertise in analysing multiple neuroimaging modalities and longitudinal methodologies.

Under the supervision of Dr. Nandita Vijayakumar and Associate Professor Tim Silk, in the Brain and Cognitive Development Lab at the School of Psychology, Deakin University, this position offers an excellent opportunity for emerging career researchers. It provides support for developing research leadership, as well as guidance in pursuing independent funding, if desired.

Reporting to the Lead Researcher, the Associate Research Fellow will be responsible for:

• Organising and pre-processing (e.g., quality control) multimodal neuroimaging data using fMRI, DTI, structural MRI, and other modalities.
• Undertaking advanced statistical analyses.
• Developing relevant project documents to support collaborations (such as data transfer arrangements).
• Coordinating data contributions and developing effective working relationships with international research groups.
• Setting up and managing complex data storage requirements.
• Working closely with an interdisciplinary team, collaborators, and consortia.
• Publishing research findings in journals and presenting at international conferences. Opportunity for first-author manuscripts will be encouraged.
• Mentoring junior researchers, graduate students, and interns.
• Conducting other tasks to complete the goals of the funded research (including ethics applications).

To be successful, you’ll have:

• PhD in Cognitive Neuroscience, Psychology, Neuroimaging, Bioinformatics, or a related field.
• An interest in and knowledge of neuroimaging and adolescent brain development.
• Experience with any of the following is highly desirable: Proficiency in neuroimaging tools (e.g., FSL, SPM, Freesurfer, Mrtrix) and some familiarity with programming languages (e.g., R scripting, Python, MATLAB).
• Demonstrated record of superb scientific writing skills, and a strong publication record in relevant domains.
• Ability to work independently and in a collaborative manner with a diverse group of scientists.

Here's how to apply: 

Please submit your updated resume, a brief cover letter, and responses to the Key Selection Criteria by clicking the 'Apply' button.

For a confidential discussion regarding this role, please contact Tim Silk (Professor) via tim.silk@deakin.edu.au

For a copy of the position description, please see below:

 Level_A_postdoc_291124.pdf

Applications for this position close on 4th March 2025 at 11:55 pm.

Are You Ready?

Deakin is a Victorian university with a global impact. We are an agile, dynamic, and innovative university committed to making a positive impact through our excellence in education, research and innovation and the contributions we make to the wider community.

We understand that our reputation has been built on the dedication and expertise of our staff and we offer a dynamic and diverse working environment with opportunities to grow and develop careers. We believe that a progressive, thriving culture will ensure that people choose to come, and stay at Deakin and contribute to our ongoing success.

We value diversity and aim to build an inclusive environment that champions, embraces and respects differences. We support and encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and people of all abilities, cultures, sexual orientation, and genders.