Connectionists: Positions available at RIKEN Brain Science Institute

[hiroyuki nakahara]

Dear colleagues,

Applications are invited for opening positions for postdoctoral
scientists to work at the Laboratory for Integrated Theoretical
Neuroscience (Lab Head: Hiro Nakahara; http://www.itn.brain.riken.jp),
RIKEN Brain Science Institute (BSI). Our laboratory is interested in
elucidating neural mechanisms of decision making with computational
foundations, including the following research topics; 

1.	Neural mechanisms and computations of decision making;
value-based decision making, motivated/social behaviors (neuroeconomics),
and adaptive learning (reinforcement learning); functions (although not
limited to) in basal ganglia related circuits and prefrontal areas

2.	Computational and mathematical foundations of neural activities;
population coding properties, and characterization/analysis of
interactions among neural activities

To investigate these, we primarily use computational approaches (e.g.,
building computational and mathematical models of neural processes), and
human functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) experiments. We are
currently having opening positions for both computational studies and
human fMRI studies, and are seeking enthusiastic and well-qualified
scientists to join in our research activities. 

For computational studies, a qualified record and research experience in
computational neuroscience is expected in the area described above or
related area. A strong quantitative background in neuroscience,
mathematics, computer science, statistics, machine learning, physics or
related area is expected. The successful candidate should have good
general computer skills, and especially good computer programming skills
(e.g., Matlab). Close collaboration with experimental studies is
emphasized; in-house fMRI and psychophysics experiments, and frequent
collaborative research with experimental laboratories (e.g., monkey
neurophysiology).

For human fMRI experimental studies, the ideal candidate should have a
qualified record and research experience in human fMRI experiments in
the research area described above or related area, but candidates with a
strong record and experience in different research areas, using fMRI,
psychophysics or related technique (e.g., single-unit neurophysiology)
are also considered. Candidates who wish to pursue experimental studies
by linking experimental and computational approaches are encouraged to
apply. The successful candidate should have a strong training in
experimental methodology with solid quantitative skills. Research using
fMRI is conducted by using RIKEN BSI's 4 Tesla MRI system, in
collaboration with Dr. Kang Cheng (RIKEN BSI, fMRI Support Unit) and
other excellent collaborators.

Applicants should have, or be expecting to receive, a Ph.D., and have
research interest and background in the area of (or related to) research
described above. The successful candidate will be expected to conduct
independent research as well as work closely in a team; therefore, a
good balance of self-reliance and collegiality, implying a good attitude
toward balancing independence and inter-dependence, is required. Good
communication skills are essential, also being fluent in spoken and
written English (working language is English at RIKEN Brain Science
Institute, while there are also opportunities to take Japanese classes.)

The RIKEN Brain Science Institute is located near Tokyo, Japan. Starting
salaries will be commensurate with relevant ability and experience.
Subsequent contracts, including salary adjustment, will be determined 
and renewed annually, upon review, for up to five years.  

Please send your application to itninfo at brain.riken.jp with the
following materials: (1) a cover letter specifying the job opportunity
you are interested in, (2) curriculum vitae including publication list,
(3) research statement describing your past achievements and future
interests, (4) the names and contact information of three references
(including the current superviser, if available) with a brief
description of your relationship to each reference, and (5) (optional)
any additional information you think might be useful (e.g. additional
skills and background, general interests, and so on). 

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Screening
will be done on a rolling basis, and applications submitted by the end
of August, 2011 will be treated equally in the first screening.　
Informal inquiry should be sent to itninfo at brain.riken.jp.

The above information is an excerpt from the formal job announcement,
posted on RIKEN Brain Science Institute website:
http://www.brain.riken.go.jp/en/work/positions/20110628_h_nakahara.html.

Best wishes,

Hiro Nakahara
Lab for Integrated Theoretical Neuroscience
RIKEN Brain Science Institute
http://www.itn.brain.riken.jp

-- 
hiroyuki nakahara 
http://www.itn.brain.riken.jp