Jean-Jacques Orban de Xivry

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.

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 .