Postdoctoral Scholar - Research Associate

For more than 75 years, the University of Southern California has been working to ensure that people of every age and from every circumstance can live life to the fullest. Throughout the decades, Trojans near and far have advanced the profession of occupational therapy and the research discipline of occupational science. Today, the USC Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy proudly carries this legacy forward as we aim to improve the quality of life of people and communities across the world.

We have a shared purpose here at USC Chan. Together, our researchers, educators, clinicians, students and alumni are dedicated to optimizing the engagement of people — especially those with disability, injury, illness, unhealthy lifestyles or chronic conditions — in the ordinary and extraordinary activities of life.

The University of Southern California (USC) Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy is seeking two Postdoctoral Scholars – Research Associates to join the Neural Plasticity and Neurorehabilitation Laboratory led by Dr. Sook-Lei Liew. These positions are funded by an NIH R01 grant focused on advancing research in neurorehabilitation, imaging analysis, and brain-computer interfaces.

About the Role

The Postdoctoral Scholars will contribute to multidisciplinary research investigating how brain activity and neuroplasticity relate to motor recovery following neurological injury. Projects may include developing and testing novel brain-computer interface (BCI) systems, conducting neuroimaging analyses (MRI, EEG, fNIRS), and designing experimental and clinical studies to improve rehabilitation outcomes.

The scholars will work closely with Dr. Liew and collaborators across neuroscience, engineering, and rehabilitation disciplines, gaining valuable experience in both basic and translational research.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct independent and collaborative research in neurorehabilitation and brain-computer interface technology

• Design, implement, and analyze neuroimaging and behavioral experiments

• Prepare manuscripts for publication and assist in grant writing

• Mentor graduate and undergraduate students involved in related research

• Present research findings at conferences and other academic venues

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

• Ph.D. in neuroscience, biomedical engineering, occupational therapy, kinesiology, psychology, or a related field

• Strong background in neuroimaging (e.g., MRI, EEG) or brain-computer interface research

• Demonstrated record of scientific productivity (e.g., publications, conference presentations)

• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with neurorehabilitation or motor recovery research

• Proficiency in programming and data analysis tools (e.g., MATLAB, Python, R, SPM, FSL)

• Familiarity with human subjects research and IRB protocols

The annual base salary for this position is $68,640. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state, and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to the Background Screening Policy Appendix D for specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying. 

Minimum Requirements: Ph.D. in neuroscience, biomedical engineering, occupational therapy, kinesiology, psychology, or a related field Strong background in neuroimaging (e.g., MRI, EEG) or brain-computer interface research Demonstrated record of scientific productivity (e.g., publications, conference presentations) Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills