An exciting opportunity at the Allen Institute for Brain Science – a new Scientist position in Modeling is now open.
Please apply here:
We are seeking a Scientist to work on bio-realistic modeling of the mouse visual cortex, in close collaboration with in-house experimentalists studying the structure (cell types and connectivity) and in vivo function (patterns of neural
activity and computations) of cortical circuits involved in behavior.
Our team constructs models of neurons based on in vitro studies (see, e.g.,
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-017-02718-3 and
http://celltypes.brain-map.org) and employs them as building blocks for large-scale data-driven models of cortical circuitry (see, e.g.,
https://www.biorxiv.org/content/early/2018/03/31/292839). The developed models are used to ask questions about activity and mechanisms observed in unprecedented high-throughput in vivo recordings
(http://observatory.brain-map.org/visualcoding). We also build and disseminate modeling software to support this work (https://alleninstitute.github.io/bmtk/index.html).
Job Responsibilities:
- Join ongoing efforts on building and simulating models of cortical areas in the mouse visual cortex, using point-neuron and biophysically detailed (compartmental) approaches.
- Use these models to explore mechanisms underlying neural activity and computations observed in vivo in the context of a behavioral task; the aim is to provide mechanistic predictions for subsequent experimental testing by in-house collaborators.
- Collaborate with in-house theoreticians and experimentalists to test hypotheses about cortical computations and algorithms in realistic models and in experiments.
- Contribute to the development of modeling and analysis software.
- Publish/present findings in peer-reviewed journals/scientific conferences.
Basic Qualifications:
- PhD degree in Neuroscience, Physics, Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Bioengineering, or related field.
SCIENTIST I: 0-2 years postdoctoral experience in computational science
SCIENTIST II: 3+ years postdoctoral experience in computational science
Desired Qualifications:
- Experience in computational neuroscience and/or systems neuroscience is preferred, but other strong applicants will be considered (with background in computational physics, biophysics, and related disciplines).
- Candidates with strong background in experimental systems neuroscience, willing to switch to computational work, are encouraged to apply.
- Experience with parallel computing is a plus, as well as experience with programming in Python and/or MATLAB.
- Experience with models of neurons/neuronal circuits is a plus.
- Ability to meet aggressive timelines and deliverables in a collaborative environment is required.
- Strong publication record.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
It is the policy of the Allen Institute to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual
orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, the Allen Institute will provide
reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.
Anton Arkhipov
Associate Investigator
T: 206.548.8414
Allen Institute for Brain Science