Postdoctoral Fellow - Dr. Charles Nelson, Harvard Medical School and Boston Children's Hospital

The Laboratories of Cognitive Neuroscience (LCN) are dedicated to furthering our understanding of brain and cognitive development in children diagnosed with or at risk for various developmental disorders. Our multidisciplinary team of researchers brings together experts from a wide range of fields, including neuroscience, psychology, and education. In collaboration with clinical experts in fields such as developmental pediatrics, genetics and child neurology, we are working to expand our knowledge of neurodevelopmental disorders. Through this collaborative and comprehensive approach, we aim to drive the science forward as rapidly as possible, so that we can translate what we learn into earlier identification, improved therapies, and better outcomes for children and families affected by developmental disorders.

The LCN are seeking a postdoctoral fellow to assist with several research studies involving infants and young children diagnosed with, or at risk for various neurodevelopmental disorders, but in particular, autism. These projects use a variety of methods to investigate child development across the lifespan (measures include eye tracking, electrophysiology, near infrared spectroscopy, genetics, skin conductance, heart rate, and standardized behavior and temperament assessments). The position will involve participation in all levels of the research investigation and qualified applicants will assist with data collection as well as oversee data analysis. At the present time we are conducting studies with the following populations: typically developing children, children at risk for, or with a current diagnosis of autism; infants with an older sibling with autism; and children with various single gene (e.g., tuberous sclerosis complex, Rett Syndrome, CDKL5) disorders.

Qualifications: The qualified applicant will have a Ph.D. in developmental psychology, neuroscience or cognitive neuroscience, although individuals with a background in electrical or biomedical engineering or computer science will also be considered, as appropriate. Preferred applicants will have experience with EEG/ERP, fNIRS and/or advanced signal processing routines as well as national ADOS reliability, and familiarity with other diagnostic, developmental and cognitive assessment tools (MSEL, DAS, ADI, AOSI, etc.). Experience conducting research with infants and/or children with an autism spectrum disorder or other developmental disorders is strongly preferred.

A start date of December 2015 is preferred but flexible. A 2-year commitment is preferred. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

For consideration, please submit a letter of interest and curriculum vita to Dr. Charles Nelson ([email protected])