Full-time | Fixed-term (24 months)
Starting: 1 June 2026 (or as soon as possible thereafter)
We are seeking a skilled and highly motivated Post-Doctoral Research Fellow to join the laboratory of Professor Elsa Fouragnan at the University of Plymouth. This ARIA-funded project explores an exciting proof of principle: whether Ultrasound Stimulation (transcranial or otherwise) can be used safely to both image and regulate mood states in a closed-loop system. The study will involve healthy volunteers and patients with a history of brain injury, using cutting-edge neuroimaging methods including functional MRI (fMRI), functional Ultrasound Imaging (fUSi) and computational modelling of emotion-related behaviours.
This is an exceptional opportunity to develop your research portfolio within a team of internationally recognised leaders at the intersection of neuroscience, neuromodulation, neuroimaging, and computational modelling.
About the Role
You will be based between the Brain Research Imaging Centre (BRIC) at the University of Plymouth and Queen’s Hospital, Romford (London). BRIC houses state-of-the-art facilities, including:
A 3T Prisma MRI scanner
Multiple human research laboratories
Two neurostimulation labs (TUS, TMS)
MR-compatible TUS and EEG systems
The role will require regular travel to London to support experimental setup in a clinical environment, with potential opportunities for transatlantic collaboration and travel through our partnership with Forest Neurotech (now Merge Labs) in the USA.
You will lead the design, execution, and analysis of a multimodal neuroimaging and ultrasound stimulation experiment, investigating TUS parameters and mood-related brain networks. You will also be responsible for disseminating results through publications and conference presentations.
Supervision & Collaborators
Professor Elsa Fouragnan, University of Plymouth
Dr Aimun Jamjoom, Neurosurgeon & Clinician Scientist, Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust
Collaborators at Forest Neurotech / Merge Labs (USA), including Dr Sumner Norman and Dr Tyson Aflal
Interviews are scheduled for May 2026.
Essential Requirements
Qualifications
PhD (or equivalent international qualification) in neuroscience, physiology, biology, or a related field.
Research Experience & Technical Skills
You must have:
Experience in task programming and neuroimaging data analysis, including fMRI collection and analysis.
Experience with multivariate analysis methods.
Proficiency in programming (any language).
A strong research track record including publications and presentations.
Communication & Collaboration
Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills.
Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively within interdisciplinary teams.
Ability to build productive working relationships with internal and external partners.
Professional Attributes
Strong organisational and project management skills.
Intellectual agility and strong problem-solving abilities.
Experience mentoring or supporting junior researchers.
Willingness to travel to London as needed.
Desirable
Knowledge of cognitive neuroscience, particularly relating to mood.
Please note: Due to the nature of the work, remote working cannot be supported.
For an informal discussion, please contact Professor Elsa Fouragnan: elsa.fouragnan@plymouth.ac.uk
Applications sent to this email will not be considered.