Postdoctoral Associate - Pachitariu Lab

Primary Work Address: 19700 Helix Drive, Ashburn, VA, 20147

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Summary:

We are seeking postdoctoral associates to investigate how large populations of neurons perform complex computations. We collect and analyze recordings of 50,000+ neurons, developing machine learning tools to extract computational principles from these large-scale datasets. We welcome applications from various fields, with a preference for experimental neuroscientists and computational neuroscientists. See more information about the lab here .

About the Role:

The lab is looking for postdoctoral associates to perform experiments and work on data analysis of neural activity, some current projects in the lab include:

• train/test paradigms for studying sensory decision making

• supervised vs unsupervised paradigms for studying neural plasticity and learning

• models for learning based on temporal and atemporal stimulus statistics

About the Lab:

Our lab is part of the Mechanistic Cognitive Neuroscience and the Computation & Theory departments at Janelia. The neuroscience department here is a collaborative group of scientists working towards understanding the neural underpinnings of complex behaviors in naturalist settings. For more information about our neuroscience department, please visit here . For information about Janelia, please visit here .

What we provide:

• A competitive compensation package, inclusive of comprehensive health and welfare benefits.

• One-on-one mentorship relationship with the lab head

• Opportunities for collaborations with other labs across the Janelia Research Campus

• Generous training and travel opportunities to scientific workshops and conferences

• Optional affordable on-site housing!

What you’ll do:

• Handling one or more independent research projects studying how neural computations support various cognitive phenomena

• Develop testable hypotheses from data analysis and modeling of neural activity

• Learn how to leverage machine learning techniques to make novel biological discoveries

• Freedom to pursue creative ideas that bring to bear your previous experience and current/future interests!

What you bring:

• A PhD in experimental neuroscience, computational neuroscience, or a related field

• Programming expertise in Python or MATLAB

• Experience analyzing neural datasets and using machine learning pipelines

• Creative ideas to apply machine learning algorithms to neuroscience research

Physical Requirements

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet).

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job’s principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however.  Unless they begin with the word “may,” the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are “essential functions” of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Compensation:

An Associate 00 is compensated at a rate of $74,200.00 annually at HHMI's Janelia Research Campus.

HHMI’s salary structure is developed based on relevant job market data. HHMI considers a candidate's education, previous experiences, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal equity when making job offers.

Compensation and Benefits

Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our Benefits at HHMI site to learn more. 

HHMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer