Connectionists: Postdoctoral Researcher and Engineer Positions in Multi-scale Neural Modeling, OIST

[Kenji Doya]

Postdoctoral Researcher and Engineer Positions in Multi-scale Neural Modeling
Neural Computation Unit
Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology

The Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology started a new project “Brain/MINDS” that aims to create structural and anatomical maps of the marmoset brain using innovative technologies.

Within this project, the group lead by Prof. Kenji Doya at Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) will develop computational frameworks for constructing multi-scale neural models that link cellular and network dynamics to behavioral and cognitive functions by utilizing large-scale anatomical and physiological data sets.

Positions are available for postdoctoral researchers and engineers to work on one or more of the following subtopics:
1) Estimation of cellular and synaptic parameters from connectome, imaging, and electrode recording data.
2) Automated reduction of conductance-based models to integrate-and-fire models, and spiking neural network models to population firing rate models.
3) Application and validation of the above methods with the data being produced by the project.

Candidates should have Ph.D. or masters degree in mathematics, computer science or relevant areas and must have strong skills in programming, data analysis, and simulation. Experience in statistical machine learning and/or computational neuroscience is desired.

OIST offers an excellent interdisciplinary research environment, including high-performance computing, in its campus overlooking beautiful coastline and coral reefs. Researchers will have opportunities to closely collaborate with leading neuroscientists participating in the project.

Initial appointment will be from October 2014 to March 2015, with a possibility of renewal till March 2017. Competitive salary is offered based on the candidate’s experience. OIST is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer and provides strong support for its staff and family members coming from abroad.

Applicants should send a CV, publication list, statement of research, and contact information of three referees to Prof. Kenji Doya <doya at oist.jp>.

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Kenji Doya <doya at oist.jp>
Neural Computation Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology
1919-1 Tancha, Onna, Okinawa 904-0495, Japan
Phone: +81-98-966-8594; Fax: +81-98-966-2891
https://groups.oist.jp/ncu