POSTDOCTORAL SCHOLAR

The Real-Time NeuroRehabilitation Lab (RT-NRL) at the University of Iowa invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Scholar in the field of motor control, non-invasive neurophysiology, brain stimulation, and neurorehabilitation. The overall mission of the RT-NRL Lab is to (1) identify brief temporal windows during which the neurophysiological mechanisms supporting voluntary upper extremity movements are most active and (2) deliver evidence-based neurorehabilitation interventions during these windows. The individual selected for this position will contribute to multiple projects carried out in the lab, including an NIH-funded study examining the feasibility of poststroke real-time EEG-informed transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Additional projects examine neural control of grasping behaviors and brain oscillatory mechanisms of descending motor output. Most studies in the lab combine TMS, EEG, EMG, clinical assessments and behavioral testing through highly multimodal experimental designs. The Postdoctoral Research Scholar will contribute to laboratory projects by designing and executing research studies, maintaining robust laboratory records in accordance with local and federal regulations, analyzing data, publishing manuscripts, and overseeing the activities of junior research team members (including interns, undergraduate students, and graduate students). The Postdoctoral Research Scholar is also expected to collaboratively engage with all lab members during project meetings, departmental seminars, and discussions of ongoing and planned projects. Finally, the Postdoctoral Research Scholar will complete an independent project focused on real-time EEG-triggered TMS and poststroke and/or neurotypical motor control. The primary mentor for this position is Dr. Sara Hussain, PhD, but the Postdoctoral Research Scholar will also collaborate with a larger team of physicians, neurophysiologists, and rehabilitation specialists at the University of Iowa and other research institutions nationally. The preferred start date for this position is September 1, 2025, but alternative start dates will be considered. This position is for one year, with a possibility of renewal for a second year. 

The ideal candidate will be interested in pursuing an academic career in human neurophysiology, motor control, and/or human neuroscience broadly defined.

Questions about the position can be directed to Sara Hussain at sara-hussain@uiowa.edu. Review of applications will begin June 1, 2024, and continue until the position is filled.

• PhD degree in Human Physiology, Rehabilitation Science, Kinesiology, Psychology, Biomedical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field.

• 3-5 years’ experience with laboratory-based human subjects’ research during graduate training


• Strong statistical, analytical, programming (i.e., MATLAB, Python, R), and quantitative reasoning skills, including the ability to independently analyze data


• Existing track record of first-author peer-reviewed publications


• Strong written and interpersonal communication skills


• Ability to work and learn independently, while remaining motivated to contribute to the laboratory’s research mission


• Strong organizational skills


• Experience with either neurostimulation (TMS, tDCS, etc.) or neuroimaging (EEG, MRI, MEG, etc.) techniques

• TMS, EEG, or combined TMS-EEG experience


• Machine learning background and/or knowledge


• Experience working with individuals with neurological disorders (i.e., stroke, Parkinson’s disease, spinal cord injury, etc.)


• Experience contributing to clinical trials in accordance with local and federal regulations 

To start the Online Application process for this position, click the "Apply for This Position" button located below the Contact Information.