Postdoctoral Researcher

Overview

The Department of Experimental Psychology invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher to join the Brain, Speech and Language Research Group led by Kate Watkins. Funded by the European Research Council for the STUTTER project, this position focuses on examining the neural mechanisms of stuttering across the lifespan. The selected candidate will lead a longitudinal study involving children who stutter and children who do not stutter, utilizing behavioural assessments and brain imaging techniques to determine why stuttering persists in certain children while resolving in others.

Responsibilities include recruiting participants, conducting neuroimaging and behavioural assessments, and handling data collection and management. The researcher will also contribute to conference presentations, publications, and related research outputs. This is a full-time, fixed-term appointment for two years initially, with potential for extension depending on funding availability. The role is based at the Life and Mind Building and includes working at the Oxford Centre for Human Brain Activity in Headington, Oxford. Occasional flexible working during evenings, weekends, and school holidays may be necessary.

Who can apply

Candidates must hold a PhD or DPhil, or be near completion, in speech and language sciences, psychology, cognitive neuroscience, or a related field. Essential qualifications include prior experience in human participant research alongside behavioural or neuroimaging methods. Advantageous backgrounds involve research with children, speech and language disorders, MRI, or MEG. The University of Oxford values inclusivity and equal opportunity, encouraging applications from all backgrounds, including groups under-represented in higher education, without unlawful discrimination based on protected characteristics.

What you get

The position offers a salary ranging from £39,424 to £47,779 per annum at Grade 7. Employee benefits include a contributory pension scheme, 38 days of annual leave, family leave schemes, and a range of childcare services. Additional staff offerings comprise a cycle loan scheme, discounted bus travel, season ticket travel loans, and access to various sports and social clubs.

How to apply

Submissions must be completed online. Applicants need to provide a curriculum vitae, a supporting statement responding to the selection criteria, and contact details for two referees.

Key dates

The application deadline is midday on 13 November 2026. Only submissions received by this date will be evaluated.