Postdoctoral Researcher in Neuroimaging of Language Leiden University in Netherlands

The Leiden University Centre for Linguistics (LUCL) and the Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition (LIBC) are offering a two-year postdoctoral position (0.8 FTE) in the neuroimaging of language, as part of the NWO-funded project “Is the brain network involved in sentence comprehension replicable and robust?” led by Dr. Jurriaan Witteman. The project aims to rigorously investigate the neural mechanisms underlying sentence-level semantic integration, focusing on the anterior inferior frontal gyrus (aIFG) and its role in language comprehension. The research combines a preregistered high-powered fMRI replication study, functional connectivity analyses, and a preregistered meta-analysis of neuroimaging literature to establish robust brain regions involved in semantic integration.

The postdoctoral researcher will lead the design and preregistration of the fMRI study, conduct systematic literature searches and meta-analyses, coordinate MRI data collection at the Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), perform preprocessing and statistical analyses (including functional connectivity), and curate/share data and code following BIDS and open science standards. The position offers opportunities to contribute to international publications and conference presentations, with the expectation of at least two peer-reviewed articles resulting from the project.

Applicants should have a PhD (or confirmed defense date) in neurolinguistics, cognitive neuroscience, psychology, or a related field, with experience in fMRI acquisition/analysis and experimental research. Excellent English is required. Preferred skills include programming (R, Bash), systematic review/meta-analysis experience, knowledge of cognitive neuroscience of language, open science practices, and a publication track record. The successful candidate must relocate to Leiden, as remote work is not possible.

Leiden University offers a vibrant academic environment, with LUCL and LIBC providing interdisciplinary research communities and extensive neuroimaging infrastructure. MRI studies are conducted at LUMC, which hosts advanced MRI scanners and technical support. The postdoctoral researcher will join an active international research community with regular seminars and collaborations across linguistics, psychology, and neuroscience.

The position is for two years (initially one year with a 2-month probation period, extension after positive evaluation), starting 1 June 2026 (flexible). Salary ranges from €3,546 to €4,728 gross per month (full-time equivalent), with additional holiday and end-of-year bonuses, training, career development, dual career programme for international spouses, and potential substantial tax breaks for candidates from outside the Netherlands. More information on employment conditions is available at Leiden University employment conditions.

To apply, submit a motivation letter, detailed CV, and names/contact information of two referees via the university’s application portal by 30 April 2026. Reference letters are not required at this stage. For project questions, contact Dr. Jurriaan Witteman ([email protected]). For application procedure questions, contact Maarit van Gammeren ([email protected]).

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