Scientist I – Computation through Dynamics
Allen Institute
Summary
The goal of the Neural Dynamics accelerator is to understand how the brain generates flexible behavior. We aim to uncover the algorithms—implemented by dynamics in brain-wide neural circuits—that allow animals to build internal models, process information, and choose actions.
Job description
About the Role
The goal of the Neural Dynamics accelerator is to understand how the brain generates flexible behavior. We aim to uncover the algorithms—implemented by dynamics in brain-wide neural circuits—that allow animals to build internal models, process information, and choose actions.
We are searching for a Scientist to lead the analysis of large-scale neural population recordings collected during flexible decision-making tasks. These datasets include spike trains from thousands of neurons recorded simultaneously across multiple brain regions, providing a unique opportunity to uncover how distributed neural circuits support adaptive behavior. The ideal candidate will be team-oriented, have deep knowledge in neuroscience and statistics, and be excited to work at the interface of large-scale physiology, behavior, and theory. This position will require good communication with experimentalists leveraging state-of-the-art behavioral, computational, electrophysiological, and imaging methods, as well as molecular and transgenic resources.
Essential Functions
- Build and deploy reproducible analysis pipelines for large scale neural and behavioral datasets
- Apply statistical approaches to extract structure from high-dimensional neural activity
- Develop quantitative models and analyses of behavior and neural measurements
- Collaborate internally and externally to develop theory guided hypotheses for neural computation
- Present results internally, via talks and progress reports, and to the external community, via conferences and publications
- Engage deeply with current literature, including ~quarterly presentations in the theory journal club
Required Education and Experience
- PhD in neuroscience, statistics, computer science, physics or related field; or equivalent combination of degree and experience
- Demonstrated proficiency in conducting collaborative, multidisciplinary research
- Strong understanding of statistics and data science
- Ability to write reusable code in Python
Preferred Education and Experience
- Experience with cloud computing infrastructure
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Strong publication record
Requirements
- PhD in neuroscience, statistics, computer science, physics or related field; or equivalent combination of degree and experience
- Demonstrated proficiency in conducting collaborative, multidisciplinary research
- Strong understanding of statistics and data science
- Ability to write reusable code in Python
- Experience with cloud computing infrastructure
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Strong publication record
Benefits
- Medical Insurance
- Dental Insurance
- Vision Insurance
- Basic Life Insurance
- 401(k)
- Paid Time Off
- Relocation Assistance
Company overview
The Allen Institute is a premier non-profit research organization founded in 2003 by philanthropist Paul G. Allen, co-founder of Microsoft. Headquartered in Seattle, Washington, the institute is dedicated to answering fundamental questions in biology and accelerating scientific discovery through large-scale, collaborative research projects. The organization operates several major research divisions including the Allen Institute for Brain Science, Allen Institute for Cell Science, and Allen Institute for Immunology. The Allen Institute is renowned for creating comprehensive, open-access data resources and tools for the global scientific community, such as the Allen Brain Atlas, which provides detailed maps of gene expression in the mouse and human brain. Their research approach combines experimental biology with computational analysis and data science to generate transformative insights into complex biological systems. The institute's work has significantly advanced understanding of brain function, cellular biology, and immune system dynamics, making it a leading force in modern biomedical research with a strong commitment to open science and data sharing.