The Sha Lab at the University of South Carolina, led by Assistant Professor Zhiqiang Sha, is recruiting PhD students in Cognitive and Neural Sciences within the Department of Psychology. The lab is affiliated with the Carolina Autism & Neurodevelopment Research Center, the Institute for Mind & Brain, and collaborates with the McCausland Center for Brain Imaging. Research in the lab centers on mechanisms of atypical brain development and neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorders, using advanced statistical modeling to bridge genetic variation, neural circuitry, early life adversity, and psychopathological phenotypes with treatment outcomes.

Projects leverage state-of-the-art machine learning models and neuroimaging, supported by the Brain Imaging Center (3T and high-field 7T MRI scanners) and the Biobehavioral Research Center at USC. Students will gain hands-on experience with neuroimaging (MRI) and biomedical research techniques, with access to rich in-house and public datasets and advanced neuroimaging platforms. The lab fosters a collaborative and productive environment, supporting PhD students in publishing high-quality research, applying for fellowships, and securing future career paths.

Applicants should have a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in neuroscience, psychology, or a related field. Experience with neuroimaging MRI data analysis and coding is preferred. The position is ideal for motivated students interested in cognitive neuroscience, neurodevelopmental disorders, autism, genetic syndromes, and computational approaches to brain research. Funding details are not specified, but the lab provides access to research resources and support for fellowships. To apply, submit your CV to Dr. Zhiqiang Sha at [email protected].