Flatiron Research Fellow, Center for Computational Neuroscience

New York, NY             ·            Full time

Location: 160 Fifth Avenue
Time type: Full time
Job requisition id: R0000686

Position Summary

The Center for Computational Neuroscience (CCN) invites applications for Flatiron Research Fellowships (FRFs – our designation for Postdoctoral Fellows) in CCN’s computational vision and neural circuits and algorithms groups.  CCN aims to develop theories, models, and computational methods that deepen our knowledge of brain function — both in health and in disease. CCN takes a “systems” neuroscience approach, building models that are motivated by fundamental principles, that are constrained by properties of neural circuits and responses, and that provide insights into perception, cognition and behavior. This cross-disciplinary approach not only leads to the design of new model-driven scientific experiments, but also encapsulates current functional descriptions of the brain that can spur the development of new engineered computational systems, especially in the realm of machine learning.  

CCN’s current research groups include computational vision (Eero Simoncelli, PI), neural circuits and algorithms (Dmitri ‘Mitya’ Chklovskii, PI), neuroAI and geometry (SueYeon Chung, PI), and statistical analysis of neural data (Alex Williams, PI), and is planning to expand the number of research groups in the near term. 

While the current open positions are in the computational vision and neural circuits and algorithms groups only, CCN scientists are encouraged to collaborate across research groups and the wider Flatiron Institute.  Interested candidates should review the CCN public website for specific information, and to select a group for their primary affiliation.

Visit the Flatiron Institute career page to learn more.

Position Summary 

The CCN FRF program offers the opportunity for postdoctoral research in areas that have strong synergy with one or more of the existing research groups at CCN or other centers at the Flatiron Institute. During this recruitment cycle, CCN is accepting applications for the computational vision and neural circuits and algorithms groups only.  Each CCN FRF will have a primary mentor from a CCN research group, though affiliations and collaborations with other research groups within CCN and throughout the Flatiron Institute are encouraged.  Candidates seeking a joint appointment between CCN and another Flatiron Center are encouraged to apply to both centers and to state their interest in a joint position in their cover letter.  In addition to carrying out their own research, Flatiron Research Fellows are expected to: disseminate their results through scientific presentations, publications, and software release, collaborate with other members of the CCN or Flatiron Institute, and participate in the scientific life of the CCN and Flatiron Institute by attending seminars, colloquia, and group meetings. Flatiron Research Fellows also have the opportunity to organize workshops and to mentor graduate and undergraduate students.

Review of applications will begin immediately and will remain ongoing until all positions are filled, for positions starting in 2023.

Required Application Materials:

• Curriculum Vitae with bibliography;
• Research statement of no more than three pages describing past work and proposed research program.  Applicants are encouraged to discuss the broad impact of the past and proposed research on computational neuroscience. Applicants should also indicate the primary CCN group(s) with which they’d seek to conduct research, and any desired affiliation with other Flatiron Centers. 
• Three (3) letters of recommendation submitted confidentially by direct email to ccnjobs@simonsfoundation.org

Optional Application Materials:

• Cover letter (optional);

Selection Criteria:

• Applicants must have a PhD in a related field or expect to receive their PhD before the start of the appointment.
• Applications will be evaluated based on 1) past research accomplishments 2) proposed research program 3) synergy of applicant’s expertise and research proposal topic with existing CCN staff and research programs.

Education:

• PhD in computational neuroscience or a relevant technical field such as electrical engineering, machine learning, statistics, physics, or applied math.

Related Skills:

• Flexible multi-disciplinary mindset;  Ability to work independently, as well as in a collaborative environment.
• Strong interest in the scientific study of the brain;
• Ability to execute and communicate original scientific research;
• Demonstrated abilities in analysis, software and algorithm development, modeling and/or scientific simulation;

FRF positions are two-year appointments and are generally renewed for a third year, contingent on performance. FRFs receive a research budget and have access to the Flatiron Institute’s powerful scientific computing resources. FRF may be eligible for subsidized housing within walking distance of the CCN. 

The Simons Foundation’s Diversity Commitment

Many of the greatest ideas and discoveries come from a diverse mix of minds, backgrounds and experiences, and we are committed to cultivating an inclusive work environment. The Simons Foundation actively seeks a diverse applicant pool and encourages candidates of all backgrounds to apply. We provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic disposition, neurodiversity, disability, veteran status, or any other protected category under federal, state and local law.

Please click here to apply.

Tagged as: Neuroscience