Research Fellow in Computational Psychiatry(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

About the Centre

The Max Planck UCL Centre for Computational Psychiatry and Ageing Research (MPC) is a joint initiative dedicated to advancing understanding of mental health conditions and cognitive ageing through rigorous, theory-driven science. The Centre brings together psychiatry, neuroscience, psychology, and computational modelling to examine how brain–behaviour relationships change across the lifespan and in psychiatric illness.

A central aim of the MPC is to apply computational models to explain individual differences in cognition, learning, and decision-making. This work directly informs improved diagnosis, treatment stratification and long-term mental health outcomes.

About the Role

We are seeking a Research Fellow in Computational Psychiatry to join the RELMED project, a Wellcome-funded programme investigating how different antidepressant treatments engage specific computational mechanisms, particularly within reinforcement learning frameworks.

In this role, you will co-lead the neuroimaging component of the project, with a primary focus on electroencephalography (EEG) combined with advanced computational modelling. You will work closely with the Chief Investigator, Professor Quentin Huys, who will provide scientific supervision and line management.

The position requires regular on-site working at UCL and travel to collaborating research sites as needed. The role is available immediately and offers an exceptional opportunity to contribute to high-impact research at the interface of psychiatry, neuroscience and computation.

Key Responsibilities

• Co-lead EEG data collection and analysis within the RELMED project
• Apply computational models of reinforcement learning to neurophysiological data
• Integrate behavioural, clinical and EEG datasets using advanced modelling approaches
• Collaborate closely with senior investigators and multidisciplinary research teams
• Contribute to study design, analysis pipelines and interpretation of results
• Prepare research outputs for peer-reviewed journals and international conferences
• Support dissemination of findings relevant to mental health research and treatment innovation
• Ensure research delivery aligns with UK research governance and ethics standards

Person Specification

Essential Criteria

• PhD in computational neuroscience, psychology, cognitive neuroscience or a closely related field
• Strong track record of high-quality research publications
• Experience applying computational or mathematical models to behavioural or neural data
• Proficiency in at least one programming language such as MATLAB, Python, R or Java
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to collaborative research
• Excellent analytical, communication and problem-solving skills

Desirable Experience

• Experience working with EEG or other neurophysiological data
• Background in reinforcement learning or decision-making models
• Familiarity with translational or clinical mental health research
• Understanding of Good Clinical Practice and UK research ethics frameworks

Contract and Progression

Appointment at Research Fellow level is subject to the successful award of a PhD. Candidates who have submitted but not yet been awarded their doctorate will be appointed initially as a Research Assistant (£39,148 – £41,833 per annum), with promotion and salary adjustment backdated to the date of final thesis submission.

The post is funded by Wellcome for two years in the first instance, with the possibility of extension subject to funding renewal.

Visa Sponsorship

This role meets the eligibility requirements for Skilled Worker and Global Talent visa routes. UCL welcomes applications from international candidates who require sponsorship to work in the UK

Salary and Benefits

• UCL offers a comprehensive reward and benefits package, including:
• Competitive salary on Grade 7, including London Allowance
• 41 days’ annual leave (including bank holidays and closure days)
• Defined benefit CARE pension scheme
• Additional annual leave purchase scheme
• Cycle to Work and season ticket loan schemes
• Immigration loan support
• On-site nursery and gym facilities
• Enhanced family leave provisions
• Employee Assistance Programme and wellbeing support

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

The Institute of Neurology is committed to fostering an inclusive, supportive and respectful research environment. Individual strengths are valued, teamwork is encouraged, and career development is actively supported.

The Institute holds an Athena SWAN Silver Award, recognising its commitment to advancing gender equality. UCL strongly encourages applications from individuals currently under-represented in academia, including people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds, disabled people, LGBTQI+ and gender-diverse individuals.

UCL’s approach reflects the principles set out in the Equality Act 2010

How to Apply

Applicants should submit:

• A current CV
• An online application form
• A supporting statement or cover letter addressing the essential and desirable criteria

Please do not upload additional attachments, as these will not be considered.