We are seeking a highly motivated Post-doctoral Research Fellow to join Dr. Daniela Balslev‘s team on an MRC-funded project: The role of oculoproprioception in the neural control of ocular alignment: Understanding disease mechanisms in strabismus.
This collaborative project involves experts from the Universities of St Andrews (Prof Malinda Carpenter, Developmental Psychology) and Glasgow (Dr Alessio Fracasso, Cognitive Neuroscience/Ultrahigh Field fMRI), as well as from the Children’s Orthoptic Unit NHS Fife (Dr Nikki Hall, Clinical Ophthalmology).
The 36-month position starts May 1, 2025, or as soon as possible thereafter.
Project Overview
Strabismus (squint) is a common childhood eye disorder where individuals struggle to align their eyes. This project investigates whether inaccurate proprioceptive input from extraocular muscles contributes to eye misalignment. Using eye tracking, fMRI, and TMS, the research will examine both paediatric and adult populations to uncover the neural basis of ocular alignment.
Key Responsibilities
1. Assess proprioceptive impairments in children with strabismus (eye tracking in 4- to 5-year-olds).
2. Investigate the neural substrate for binocular coordination in adults (ultra-high-field fMRI, TMS).
Qualifications
Applicants should hold (or be nearing completion of) a PhD in cognitive neuroscience or a related field, with expertise in one or more of the following: eye tracking, behavioural research with children, fMRI, or TMS. A strong interest in vision or oculomotor control is essential, and additional training will be provided.
Application details
For further information and to apply please visit https://www.vacancies.st-andrews.ac.uk/Vacancies/W/5685/0/443631/889/research-fellow-ar3087dd
For questions, contact Dr Daniela Balslev at daniela.balslev@st-andrews.ac.uk
Closing date: January 20, 2025
Interview date: February 5 or 6, 2025 (online), TBC
