Postdoc position for MoCo: Motor Complexity and Aging KU Leuven in Belgium

The Neuroscience of Movement Performance Research Group at KU Leuven, previously known as Movement Control and Neuroplasticity, is offering a postdoctoral position focused on motor complexity and aging. The group is multidisciplinary, bringing together neuroscientists with diverse backgrounds to investigate motor control and learning through computational, behavioral, and neuroimaging approaches. Research is conducted at the Brains-Hub, a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to brain activity, imaging, and neurostimulation for human behavior, enabling multimodal studies of motor performance under both normal and disordered conditions.

The NoMAD lab (Neuroscience of Movement in Aging and Disease), led by Professor Jean-Jacques Orban de Xivry, specializes in understanding how the brain controls movement and adapts to new motor tasks. The lab uses detailed kinematic analyses to explore age- and disease-related effects on sensorimotor processes. The postdoctoral position is full-time and centers on integrating behavioral and EEG techniques to study motor control and learning across the lifespan. The successful candidate will join a dynamic team and contribute to transparent, reproducible research, as well as supervise master theses in related domains.

Applicants should hold a doctoral degree in Movement or Revalidation Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, Experimental Psychology, Biomedical Engineering, or possess equivalent expertise. While prior experience with medical imaging techniques is advantageous, it is not strictly required. Essential qualifications include programming skills in Matlab or Python, the ability to work independently, fluency in English, and strong writing skills. International experience in the research area and a commitment to Open Science principles are considered assets. Candidates are expected to apply for post-doctoral fellowships, such as those offered by the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO).

The initial appointment is for 18-24 months, with a start date in late 2026 or early 2027. Applications must be submitted by June 15, 2026, and interviews will take place between June 17 and 19. Applicants should provide a statement of their research vision, describe the significance and originality of their previous scientific work, and explain their approach to transparent and reproducible research, including Open Data, Open Materials, preregistrations, and publication of negative or null results. Only preprints should be listed on the CV if papers are in preparation or submitted.

KU Leuven is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and socially safe environment, embracing diversity as an asset and promoting equal opportunity. For accessibility or support questions, applicants are encouraged to reach out via the provided contact email.

For more information, contact Professor Jean-Jacques Orban de Xivry at [email protected] or visit his academic page at http://jjodx.github.io. Apply directly through the KU Leuven job portal: Application Link.