Summary
The Basque Center on Cognition Brain and Language (BCBL) in San Sebastian, Spain, is seeking a highly motivated PhD student to join its Perceptual Inference Group. This fully funded PhD position focuses on understanding how humans and other animals develop internal representations of the sensory world through perceptual learning. The project combines computational models with fMRI to explore commonalities and differences in visual and auditory modalities. This is an excellent opportunity for candidates with a background in cognitive neuroscience interested in computational modeling or computational neuroscientists keen on human neuroimaging.
PhD Position: Making Sense of the Sensory World – Perceptual Learning in the Human Brain
Designation
PhD Student – First Stage Researcher (R1)
Position Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Vacancies | 1 |
| Project Title | Making sense of the sensory world: perceptual learning in the human brain |
| Funding Sources | Spanish Ministry of Science, Innovation and University (202 PID2025-169017NA-I00) |
| Type of Contract | Temporary |
| Duration of Contract | 4 years |
| Job Status | Full-time (35 hours/week) |
| Gross Annual Salary | 21,000€ |
| Start Date | Flexible between 01/01/2027 and 30/04/2027 |
Research Area
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Computational Neuroscience
- Neuroimaging
Location
San Sebastian, Basque Country, Spain (BCBL – Basque Center on Cognition Brain and Language)
Eligibility & Qualification
Required Skills
- Completion of at least 300 ECTS credits through official university studies, including at least 60 ECTS credits at master’s level.
- Master’s degree in a research-related discipline (e.g., cognitive sciences, biology, computer science, experimental psychology).
- Basic programming experience in any language.
- Fluent spoken and written English.
- Good communication skills and ability to collaborate in interdisciplinary environments.
- Keen interest in Neuroscience research.
Desirable Skills
- Basic programming experience with Python.
- Basic experience with neuroimaging data analysis (e.g., in Nipype).
- Experience designing and conducting experiments using fMRI and/or E/MEG.
- Demonstrable commitment to rigorous research practices.
- Willingness to develop a combined computational/experimental profile.
Scholarship Description
This fully funded PhD position offers an immersive experience in cutting-edge cognitive neuroscience research. The project aims to unravel the mechanisms of perceptual learning, exploring how the brain constructs internal representations from sensory input. The successful candidate will design and conduct experimental research, deploy and refine computational models, write research papers for top-tier journals, and disseminate findings at international conferences. The role also involves assisting in the supervision of Master’s students. The BCBL Perceptual Inference Group, led by a PI with an ERC Starting Grant, emphasizes rigorous, robust, and reproducible science, fostering a collaborative environment with international partners, including the University of Cambridge, where placement opportunities may arise.
How to Apply
To apply, please follow the application link provided below. Ensure you select the position titled “PhD position – Making sense of the sensory world: perceptual learning in the human brain” and attach the following documentation:
- A curriculum vitae.
- A statement outlining research interests and motivation to apply for the position (maximum 2 pages).
- Two letters of recommendation.
For inquiries about the application process or technical issues, contact hr@bcbl.eu. For questions related to the position’s content, project, or research group, contact tabas@bcbl.eu.
Last Date for Application
08 November 2026
Apply Link
Apply for PhD Position at BCBL
