Junior Researcher Position: Translational Motor Rehabilitation (TReND)

1. Introduction

Join an international MSCA network and help advance cutting‑edge research on motor control and functional neurological disorders. Contribute to innovative gait adaptation studies and grow within a vibrant, multidisciplinary community.

2. Job description

Radboud University is seeking a junior researcher for the EU-funded Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Doctoral Network ’Translational Research Network in Motor Disorder Rehabilitation: Advancing understanding of variability in motor control and learning to enhance clinical practice (TReND)’. The project commenced on 1 September 2024. As one of the original doctoral candidates is no longer continuing in the programme, we now offer this position. More information about the project can be found here.

At Radboud University, the project will focus on the mechanisms underlying functional neurological disorders (FND). FND encompasses a wide range of manifestations, including weakness, tremor, dystonia and gait abnormalities. Diagnosis relies on identifying internal inconsistencies in symptoms and clinical signs. Although the pathophysiology of FND is not yet fully understood, there is consensus that these disorders do not arise from structural lesions but rather from aberrant functioning within brain networks.

Among several proposed mechanistic accounts, the Bayesian predictive coding framework has gained increasing prominence. According to this framework, perception of proprioceptive input and voluntary movement is shaped by top-down predictions (priors), which are integrated with incoming sensory signals to form posterior beliefs that then update future predictions. In the context of movement, this process supports adaptive behaviour.

In this project, we will investigate split-belt gait adaptation in individuals with FND. The split-belt paradigm involves walking on a treadmill with two belts driven at independently controlled speeds. After an initial phase with equal belt speeds, the speeds are altered, requiring the participant to adapt their gait. We will assess not only the speed and pattern of adaptation but also their neural correlates. To this end, we will employ ambulatory EEG.

Your tasks:

• You will perform measurements and analyse data.
• You will communicate and disseminate research results to different target audiences and sectors (e.g. research, clinical practice and industry).
• You will publish your research results in well-ranked international journals and at highly recognised international conferences.
• You will collaborate with an international consortium within the externally funded MSCA doctoral network TReND.
• You will participate in the network’s training programme including in in-person events (e.g. summer schools) and online events (e.g. lecture series, colloquia). 

3. Profile

• You hold a graduate degree (Master’s degree) in neuroscience, biomedical engineering, medical biology, human movement science, cognitive science or a related field, and have solid knowledge of human movement analysis (e.g. motion tracking) and neuroscience methods (e.g. EEG).
• You have previous experience working with human subjects and patients.
• You demonstrate a team-oriented attitude with excellent communication and organisational skills and are able to work independently.
• You have a good knowledge of statistical methods.
• You have a good command of written and spoken English.
• You meet the MSCA mobility rule by not having resided or carried out your main activity (work, studies, etc.) in the Netherlands for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately before your date of appointment.
• You must not already hold a PhD at the time of appointment.
• Ideally, you speak Dutch, as interaction with patients is required. 

4. We are

By joining the EU-funded Doctoral Network TReND you will join an interdisciplinary and intersectoral training network involving six beneficiaries, two employing associated partners and several other associated partners.

5. We offer

• We will give you a temporary employment contract of 1.5 year(s).
• Your salary within salary scale 10 depends on your previous education and number of years of (relevant) work experience. The amounts in the scale are based on a 38-hour working week.
• You will receive an 8% holiday allowance and an 8,3% end-of-year bonus.
• You will receive extra days off. With full-time employment, you can choose between 30 or 41 days of annual leave instead of the statutory 20.

6. Practical information and applying

You can apply only via the button below. Address your letter of application to Richard van Wezel. In the application form, you will find which documents you need to include with your application. We look forward to receiving your application.

The first interviews will take place at Friday 27 February. You will preferably start your employment on 1 April 2026.

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