The MAPLE (Music, Acoustics, Perception and LEarning) lab at McMaster University has one opening for a new graduate trainee beginning Fall 2026.  The successful applicant(s) will join an interdisciplinary project exploring musical emotion from two perspectives: experimental (music cognition), and computational (music information retrieval).

This project will build on collaborations with leading scholars in music theory and music information retrieval, complementing our team’s expertise in music perception and cognition.  Most recently we have been working with Tuomas Eerola (Durham University) on computation aspects of the project, and Jonathan De Souza (Western University) on music theoretical aspects.

Additional details outlining the project’s background can be found in two recent publications in Psychology of Music.  Delle Grazie et al. (in press) focuses on perceptual aspects of this project, and Eerola & Schutz (in press)  on computational aspects.

Applicants will need a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Cognitive Science, Neuroscience, Computer Science, or another affiliated discipline. Experience with computer programming and statistical analyses will be viewed favourably but is not required.

New: Applications to the Psychology MSc program received by the deadline stated on the departmental page will receive a full review.  To streamline the review process, please email Dr. Schutz (schutz@mcmaster.ca) an electronic copy of materials (including names and contact information for references) IN ADDITION to submitting a the formal application. Emailing materials  directly will ensure they become available for review in a timely manner. Please also include your CV, unofficial transcript, a brief writing sample, and indication of citizenship/residency status (i.e. Canadian or non-Canadian) in your email.

Specific questions beyond those addressed on this page should be directed to Dr. Schutz’s lab manager (maplelab.assistant@gmail.com)

As the School of the Arts is focused on undergraduate education, graduate students interested in research training matriculate through the Department of Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour (PNB).  However, those interested in connections between the cognitive science of language and music can apply to work in the lab by enrolling in McMaster’s new and innovative graduate program in the Cognitive Science of Language.  Please contact Dr. Schutz directly before applying if you are interested in this option.