Research Assistant Computational Neuroimaging (Animal MRI)

In this project, you will play a key role in the development of a software toolbox for harmonizing and performing quality control on large-scale open animal MRI datasets. Working with approximately 2,000 MRI scans collected from multiple open repositories, you will help create robust and reproducible workflows that support high-quality neuroimaging research.

You will develop a Python-based toolbox to automatically retrieve datasets, apply harmonization procedures, and perform comprehensive quality control checks at the individual scan level. Your work will contribute to improving the consistency, reliability, and reusability of preclinical MRI data across studies and institutions.

• Develop and maintain a Python toolbox for retrieving, processing, and analyzing open animal MRI datasets.
• Implement and evaluate harmonization approaches to reduce variability between datasets acquired at different sites and under different imaging protocols.
• Design and perform automated and semi-automated quality control procedures for large-scale MRI datasets.
• Document software, workflows, and methodologies following Open Science and reproducible research practices.
• Collaborate with researchers in neuroimaging, data science, and translational neuroscience.
• Contribute to project reports, presentations, and scientific publications where appropriate.

• A unique opportunity to contribute to a cutting-edge NWO-funded research project.
• Hands-on experience with large-scale neuroimaging datasets and advanced data processing techniques.
• A collaborative and internationally oriented research environment.
• Opportunities for professional development and scientific collaboration.
• A temporary appointment for 12 months.

Are you passionate about data science, neuroimaging, and open science? Would you like to contribute to an innovative research project aimed at improving the quality and reproducibility of animal MRI research? We are looking for a motivated Research Assistant to join our team for a 12-month, NWO-funded project.

The goal of the Medical Neuroscience department is to have a significant impact on health, prevention and innovation of care. We aim to achieve this through research that increases our understanding about brain development, function and plasticity.

With our multidisciplinary team, we focus on neurodevelopmental and stress-related processes in brain health and disease, integrating research from molecule to human and population. In addition, we educate the next generation of professionals on these topics.

We are looking for a motivated Research Assistant who is passionate about Open Science and reproducible research, and who enjoys combining scientific programming, data analysis, and software development to improve the quality and reusability of neuroimaging data. You will play a key role in developing tools and workflows that enable transparent, scalable, and reproducible analysis of large-scale animal MRI datasets.

You have:

• Are following or have completed Master's degree in Biomedical Sciences, Neuroscience, Biomedical Engineering, Medical Technology, or a related field.
• A strong interest in Open Science and reproducible research.
• Experience with programming in Python and working in a Linux environment.
• Experience with version control using Git.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and project management skills.
• Ability to work independently while also contributing effectively to a multidisciplinary research team.
• Excellent written and spoken English skills.
• Enthusiasm for developing robust and reusable software tools that support high-quality scientific research.

The following skills are considered an advantage:

• Experience with neuroimaging Python toolboxes such as Nilearn and Nipype.
• Experience with DataLad for managing and sharing research data.
• Experience with software containerization technologies such as Docker and/or Singularity.
• Experience working in high-performance computing environments and job scheduling systems such as SLURM.
• Experience with MRI data analysis, image processing, or scientific software development.

• The first job interviews will take place on 3 December 2026. Please take this into account.
• This position requires a Certificate of Conduct (VOG).

We are recruiting for this position ourselves. Unsolicited marketing is not appreciated, but do feel free to share the vacancy in your network!