Postdoctoral Research Associate, Contemplative Research Fellow in Cognitive Science

The Contemplative Sciences Center (CSC) at the University of Virginia is seeking applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate, a Contemplative Research Fellow who is trained in cognitive science, to join ongoing and emerging research in the CSC’s CIRCL, Contemplative Innovation + Research Co-Lab . Contemplative Research Fellows are Postdoctoral Research Associates who specialize in the investigation of contemplative practices and experiences. This position will possess demonstrated expertise in cognitive science (neuroscience/psychology or relevant field) as it relates to methods in the contemplative sciences. The CIRCL is a collaboratory for experimental research homed in the Contemplative Commons that facilitates diverse disciplinary expertise to study a broad spectrum of topics related to how contemplative practices operate in human bodies, minds, cultures, and ecologies. The fellow will conduct research in their specialized area of cognitive science as part of a collaborative multidisciplinary research team of faculty, postdoctoral associates, and graduate student research assistants. Research in the CIRCL co-lab investigates how contemplation intersects with themes of nature, technology, and the arts. Though studies involve a range of populations, a focus is how contemplation can enhance wellbeing among young adults. Studies currently include meditation in different environmental exposures, immersive technologies of sound and light, Virtual Reality, and lucid dreaming.

CSC’s Contemplative Research Fellow postdoctoral program is designed to mentor emerging scholars and scientists in the transdisciplinary study of contemplation to prepare the next generation of researchers, grow expertise at the University of Virginia, and contribute to advancing contemplative knowledge and know-how. The fellow will work as an integral member of the CIRCL co-lab and join a consortium of faculty researchers from across the University and around the world. Fellows receive mentorship from faculty, professional training in transdisciplinary methods, experience in contemplative research design and application, and administrative support.

Research Focus

• Potential areas of study include, but are not limited to, neurophysiological investigations including attention, mind-wandering, spontaneity, imagination, enhanced cognition, somatic awareness, multisensory experiences, emotional regulation, prosocial affect, cultural thought, ecological immersion, transcendent emotions, and nondual experiences.
  
• Depending on priorities and experience, fellows will develop a research focus in their area of specialization, contribute to collaborative research, and take on varying degrees of managing a research project.
  

Eligibility

• Applicants must have completed or be in the process of completing a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or related) in cognitive science (neuroscience/psychology or relevant field) by the start date of the fellowship or have received their doctorate within three years prior to their start date.
• There are no citizenship requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary research team.
• Co-author scholarship related to CIRCL research.
• Participate in regular CIRCL meetings and CSC community activities.
• Engage with an interdisciplinary cohort of postdoctoral associates at UVA.
• Other responsibilities to be detailed that align with the fellowship.

Desired Skills and Experience

• Ability to administer, process, and analyze neurophysiological data from EEG, HRV devices, wearables, and related biometric technologies.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team with diverse expertise.
• Ability to problem solve and innovate.
• Previous experience conducting scientific research on contemplative practice/s is a plus, not required.
• Previous experience coordinating research is a plus, not required.
• Excellent written communication skills. Ability to work with co-authors to publish. Ability to translate scientific findings.
• Collaborative. Organized. Dependable. Responsive. Attentive to detail.

Time Period

• The fellowship is a two-year academic appointment with the possible option to continue for a third year. Each year is contingent on a successful review by the supervisor, which will be conducted each year during the ninth month of their appointment. Criteria of evaluation include: (i) rigor of research, (ii) ability to collaborate and work efficiently, and (iii) commitment to shared values.

Compensation and Benefits

• Fellows are classified as Postdoctoral Research Associates at the University and will receive a competitive salary in the range of $60,000-$70,000 along with the benefits awarded for a Postdoctoral Research Associate by UVA.
• Fellows will receive $5,000 per year for conferences and professional development.
• Employment is contingent on successful completion of background check.

For more information on the benefits available to postdoctoral associates at UVA, visit postdoc.virginia.edu and hr.virginia.edu/benefits . The selected candidate will pass a criminal background check.

To Apply

Please apply online and search for R0070240. Please note that multiple documents can be uploaded in the box. Applicants must submit:

• Curriculum Vitae
• Cover letter (2 pages max) that describes the candidate’s research focus and interests, and how their training aligns with the mission of CSC’s CIRCL research.
• Three professional references.

For information about the position contact Michael Sheehy, sheehy@virginia.edu. For questions about the application process, please contact Michele Jarman, Faculty Search Advisor, at emj2us@virginia.edu. Review of applications will begin March 17, 2025 and continue until the position is filled. The anticipated start date of this position is Fall, 2025.

Physical Requirements

This is primarily a sedentary job involving extensive use of desktop computers. The job does occasionally require traveling some distance to attend meetings, and programs.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Click here to read more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.