PhD researcher for the FWO research project: MoCo: Motor Complexity and Aging KU Leuven in Belgium

The MoCo project, funded by FWO, investigates motor complexity and aging, focusing on how older adults perform motorically complex tasks with limited cognitive demands. This research is a collaboration between KU Leuven's Department of Movement Sciences (Prof. Jean-Jacques Orban de Xivry) and Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté (Prof. Jeremie Gaveau). The Movement Control and Neuroplasticity research group is internationally recognized for its multidisciplinary approach, integrating behavioural and neuroscientific strategies to study motor control and neuroplasticity across the lifespan.

The project addresses challenges faced by older adults, such as difficulties in dual-tasking (e.g., walking while using a smartphone), and aims to distinguish whether motor task complexity or cognitive decline is the primary factor. Recent experiments have shown that older adults' performance deteriorates under dual-task conditions, but cerebellum-dependent tasks, which are resilient to aging, remain unaffected. The MoCo project will explore motorically complex tasks with minimal cognitive load, challenging the notion that aging universally impairs abilities.

Applicants should hold or expect to obtain by October 2026 a relevant health-related Master of Science degree (Rehabilitation Sciences and Physiotherapy, Biomedical Sciences, Neuroscience, Medicine, Exercise Science, Experimental Psychology, or similar). The ideal candidate is motivated, enthusiastic, critical, creative, and eager to pursue a PhD. Strong communication skills in Dutch and/or English, organisational skills, accuracy, eagerness to learn, and flexibility are required. Useful skills include programming (Matlab/R/Python), data analysis, experience with older adults, and Dutch language proficiency or willingness to learn Dutch.

The position offers a dynamic, creative, and interdisciplinary research environment, with supervision from Prof. Orban de Xivry and Prof. Gaveau. The PhD trajectory is four years, with an initial one-year appointment starting in autumn 2026, extendable upon positive evaluation. Teaching and research support responsibilities are included. KU Leuven is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity, providing a respectful and socially safe environment for all.

Applications must be submitted online via the KU Leuven job portal. For further information, contact Prof. dr. Jean-Jacques Orban de Xivry at [email protected]. Interviews will be held between 25-27 May 2026. The application deadline is 15 May 2026.