Senior Research Associate

Bristol         ·        Full Time        ·        Fixed-Term/Contract

Senior Research Associate

University of Bristol – Psychological Science School Team

Location:                               Bristol
Salary:                                    £39,745 to £44,737 per annum
Hours:                                    Full Time
Contract Type:                    Fixed-Term/Contract
Placed On:                            23rd January 2023
Closes:                                   17th February 2023
Job Ref:                                 ACAD106558

The role

This EPSRC New Horizons project entitled “Exploring the multiple loci of learning and computation in simple artificial neural networks” assesses the adaptive value of learning outside of synapses in spiking networks.  It is widely assumed that changes in connection weights is the sole locus of learning and computation in artificial networks and in brains, and in this project, we explore whether adaptive changes in time constants and conduction delays may also contribute to solving tasks and help explain the morphological variability of neurons.  This is a full-time position with a proposed start date of 1 April 2023 and currently has funding secured until 30 September 2024. 

What will you be doing?

The Senior Research Associate will work closely with the PI Jeffrey Bowers as well as the Co-I Benjamin Evans and the consultant Daniel Goodman who are the developers of the “Brian” spiking neural network simulator. The Senior Research Associate will be carrying out simulation studies using both evolutionary algorithms and supervised learning to solve various simple tasks when the loci of learning are manipulated.  In addition to modelling work you will be involved in writing-up research and presenting work at conferences.  You will be based in Bristol, and you can learn more about our research at the following links:

• Jeffrey Bowers: https://mindandmachine.blogs.bristol.ac.uk/
• Benjamin Evans: https://profiles.sussex.ac.uk/p555479-benjamin-evans
• Daniel Goodman: https://www.imperial.ac.uk/people/d.goodman

You should apply if

The role calls for someone with a background in computer science and machine learning, and ideally, with experience with spiking neural networks. Researchers in psychology and neuroscience fields with strong computational skills also encouraged to apply.

Additional information

For informal enquiries please contact Professor Jeffrey Bowers – J.Bowers@bristol.ac.uk

The University of Bristol aims to be a place where everyone feels able to be themselves and do their best in an inclusive working environment where all colleagues can thrive and reach their full potential. We want to attract, develop, and retain individuals with different experiences, backgrounds and perspectives – particularly people of colour, LGBT+ and disabled people – because diversity of people and ideas remains integral to our excellence as a global civic institution.

Please click here to apply.