At a Glance
- Tasks: Investigate how toddlers dance to music using cutting-edge technology.
- Company: Birkbeck, a leading research institution in Central London.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 31 days leave, flexible working, and generous benefits.
- Other info: Fixed-term role with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Join a groundbreaking project exploring the essence of human movement and music.
- Qualifications: Experience with EEG, motion tracking, and testing young children.
The predicted salary is between 51387 - 51387 £ per year.
We are recruiting a postdoctoral researcher to support work on an ESRC supported project entitled 'Spontaneous movement to music in toddlers'.
Learning to align movement with sound is a crucial skill for social cognition, supporting conversational turn-taking and musical performance.
Parents report that 90% of children dance to music by 12 months.
The early emergence of dance to music, its cross-cultural ubiquity, and its absence in non-human primates suggests that it is a core element of what it means to be human.
However, spontaneous dancing to music in toddlers has not previously been studied in the laboratory.
As a result, we know little about the form and function of dance in toddlers.
In this project, we will use optical motion tracking and EEG to investigate why and how toddlers dance to music.
We are looking for a researcher to work under the supervision of Prof Adam Tierney, Prof Denis Mareschal, and Prof Elisa Ferrè.
The project will use a variety of methods, including EEG, optical motion tracking, and behavioural testing.
The ideal candidate will have experience in both EEG and motion tracking, as well as experience with testing infants and/or young children.
- Job responsibilities
- Collaborate in the design and piloting of the experimental protocols and analysis techniques
- Recruit participants
- Conduct testing
- Preprocess and analyse data, and
- Lead the write up of study results.
- Contract
This role is offered on a fixed-term basis from 1 February 2027 through 31 January 2029.
This is a full-time role, working 35 hours per week.
Appointment will be subject to a satisfactory enhanced check with the Disclosure and Barring Service.
Interviews will be held on 11 January 2027.
Salary and benefits
- Grade 7 of the College's London Pay Scale which is £45,132 rising to £51,387 per annum.
- Birkbeck offers a competitive salary and pension scheme, 31 days paid leave, flexible working arrangements and some of the most generous benefits in the HE sector, all while being located right in the heart of Central London.
- The salary quoted is on the College's London Pay Scale which includes a consolidated Weighting/Allowance which applies only to staff whose normal contractual place of work is in the London area.
- Eligibility and compliance
We welcome applicants from all sections of the community.
The College is committed to improving the gender and cultural diversity of its workforce, holding a bronze Athena SWAN award and operating Disability Confident & Mindful Employer schemes.
Postdoctoral Researcher in Spontaneous movement to music in toddlers in London employer: Birkbeck, University of London
Birkbeck, University of London is an exceptional employer that values its staff and fosters a supportive work culture, particularly in the hybrid and part-time Senior Student Casework Lead role. With a strong commitment to employee development, you will have access to numerous growth opportunities while working in a vibrant academic environment that prioritises student welfare and engagement. The university's location in the heart of London offers unique advantages, including cultural diversity and access to a wealth of resources, making it an ideal place for meaningful and rewarding employment.
Contact Details:
Birkbeck, University of London Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Researcher in Spontaneous movement to music in toddlers in London
✨Get Involved in Local Psychological Communities
Join local psychology associations or groups where professionals gather. Whether it’s workshops, conferences, or social events, connecting with others in the field can lead to job opportunities and insider info on unadvertised openings.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you’re a recent graduate, don’t forget to tap into your university’s career services. They often have exclusive partnerships with organisations looking for fresh talents, plus access to internships that could lead to full-time roles.
✨Showcase Your Skills Online
Create a blog or a LinkedIn page where you share insights about psychology theories or current trends. This not only showcases your knowledge but can help you connect with like-minded professionals and potential employers.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
When you find a role like Postdoctoral Researcher in Spontaneous movement to music in toddlers at Birkbeck, University of London, make your application stand out by applying directly through our website. This gives you a better chance to be seen by hiring managers. Plus, tailor your application to highlight your passion for psychology and relevant experiences!
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Researcher in Spontaneous movement to music in toddlers in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV with Relevant Experience:In psychology, it’s crucial to highlight your relevant experience, such as internships, research projects, or any volunteer work in mental health settings. Make sure to include specific roles and responsibilities, demonstrating how you've applied theoretical knowledge in real-world situations—this is what gets us excited!
Show Off Your Academic Achievements:Given the nature of psychology, we want to see your academic journey laid out clearly. Include your degree(s), grades, and any specialised courses or certifications that set you apart. If you've got published papers or presentations at conferences, be sure to mention them—it shows your commitment to the field!
Personal Statement: Make It Count:Your personal statement is your chance to shine! Share insights about why you’re passionate about psychology and how this role at Birkbeck, University of London connects with your career goals. Be honest about your motivations and what you hope to learn—this is key for a full-time position and helps us gauge your fit in our team!
Focus on Soft Skills in Your Application:Psychology is as much about people as it is about theories. Highlight your soft skills such as communication, empathy, and teamwork in your application. These traits are essential in our field and will help us see how you connect with others, so don't hold back in showcasing them!
How to prepare for a job interview at Birkbeck, University of London
✨Brush Up on Key Psychological Theories
Before stepping into the interview with Birkbeck, University of London, revisit key psychological theories that are relevant to the role, like cognitive behavioural therapy or humanistic psychology. Expect to discuss these during your interview, as they want to see how you apply theory to practice.
✨Bring Real-Life Case Studies
Prepare a couple of case studies or anecdotes that demonstrate your practical experience in psychology. Whether it’s handling a difficult client or designing a psychological assessment, these stories will highlight your skills and help you stand out in your full-time interview.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Ethical Guidelines
Get comfy with the ethical guidelines set by the British Psychological Society. Be ready to chat about how you ensure ethical practice in your work, as this is crucial in the psychology field, and Birkbeck, University of London will be keen to know you’ve got integrity.
✨Showcase Your Continuous Learning
Since you're going for a full-time gig, it’s essential to demonstrate your commitment to ongoing professional development. Bring up any workshops, courses, or readings you’ve engaged in recently. This shows Birkbeck, University of London that you’re not just there for a job, but genuinely passionate about the field.
