TEMPREAD_RA – Computational Vision and Reading RESEARCH GROUP
6 days ago
San Sebastián
ph3Offer Description /h3 pThe Basque Center on Cognition Brain and Language (BCBL) in San Sebastian (Basque Country, Spain) is looking for a Research Assistant to join its team. /p pbInformation about the project: /b 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. /p pThe RA will be analyzing data and writing. /p pbPI and research group: /b /p pThe 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. /p ul liWriting: Strong academic writing skills in English, with the ability to draft and edit manuscripts for peer-reviewed scientific journals. /li liData Analysis: Proficiency in neuroimaging data analysis, particularly with surface-based fMRI time series. /li liRetinotopy: Demonstrated experience with population Receptive Field (pRF) modeling and retinotopic mapping techniques. /li liExperience implementing and analyzing functionalocalizar (fLoc) paradigms to identify category-selective regions (e.g., VWFA). /li lifMRI: Technical expertise in fMRI preprocessing pipelines, specifically using fMRIPrep and NORDIC denoising. /li liStatistical Analysis: Proficiency in statistical modeling, including the use of linear mixed-effects models and reproducibility metrics like Lin’s Concordance Correlation Coefficient (CCC). /li /ul h3Specific Requirements /h3 ul liProgramming: Strong command of Python (Nilearn) and MATLAB (vistasoft/mrVista). /li liTools: Experience with FreeSurfer (fsnative space) and containerized workflows (Docker/Singularity) for neuroimaging. /li liLanguage: High level of English is required as it is the corporative language of the center. /li /ul h3Training opportunities and Career development plan: /h3 pOpportunity to develop professionally in a multicultural, young and dynamic environment. /p pThe necessary technical training for this position will be offered by the centre. /p pBCBL 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. /p h3Selection process /h3 pTo submit your application, please follow this link: applying for TEMPREAD_RA and attach the following documentation: /p ul liA statement outlining research interests and motivation to apply for the position /li liTranscript of records for the master and bachelor degrees /li liTwo letters of recommendation (submitted by the referees no later than the application deadline) /li liEvaluation by committee: 24 July – 14 August 2026 /li liInterviews: 18-19 August 2026 /li liFinal decision: 21 August 2026 /li liFeedback to all applicants: 24-26 August 2026 /li /ul pFor technical problems with the calls platform please contact: /p pFor inquiries or questions related to the content of the position and/or information about the project and the research group please contact: /p pNumber of offers available 1 br/Company/Institute BCBL, Basque Center on Cognition, Brain Language br/Country Spain br/State/Province Gipuzkoa br/City Donostia-San Sebastián br/Postal Code 20009 br/Street Paseo Mikeletegi 69 Geofield /p /p #J-18808-Ljbffr