lundi 10 décembre 2012

Postdoctoral positions available, Laboratory for Integrated Theoretical Neuroscience at RIKEN Brain Science Institute, Japan


Dear colleagues, 

Applications are invited for opening positions for postdoctoral scientists to work at the Laboratory for Integrated Theoretical Neuroscience (Lab Head: Hiro Nakahara; http://www.itn.brain.riken.jp), RIKEN Brain Science Institute. The goal of our laboratory is to discover the computational principles that underlie the way that brain mechanisms realize intelligent behaviors. We use computational approaches and/or conduct human fMRI experiments. We work on two areas: decision making and neural coding ? primary and secondary interest; in particular, the postdoctoral scientists are expected to work under any of the following three topics: 

1) Modeling neural computations of value-based decision making and reward-oriented behavior 
2) Conducting human fMRI experiment to address value-based decision making, including social setting 
3) Analyzing neural data for our interest, and developing methods of analysis for understanding neural interactions 

Applicants should have, or be expecting to receive, a Ph.D., and have research interest and background in the area of (or related to) research described below. Please send your application to itninfo [ chez ] brain.riken.jp with the following materials: (A) a cover letter specifying the research topic of your interest, (B) CV including publication list, (C) research statement describing your past achievements and future interests, (D) the names and contact information of three references (including the current supervisor, if available) with a brief description of your relationship to each reference, and (E) (optional) any additional information you think might be useful (e.g. additional skills and background, general interests, and so on). Application review will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Start date is flexible, but an early starting time is preferred. Informal inquiry should also be sent to itninfo [ chez ] brain.riken.jp. 

Each research topic is described briefly in the following, together with experience and skills expected for applicants: 

1) ‘Modeling neural computations.’ We build computational and mathematical models of neural processes for value-based decision making and reward-oriented behavior. We are particularly interested in their adaptive nature (e.g., reinforcement learning). We also seek how such behaviors are supported by neural processing and representation of the environment and potential outcomes, and further by representational and structural learning of those. Circuit-wise, we are interested in how the basal ganglia circuit, including dopamine neurons, contribute to these functions, in relation to prefrontal areas and other subcortical areas (e.g., lateral habenula, amygdala). Applicants are expected to have a qualified research experience in computational neuroscience in the area or related area. A strong quantitative background is expected, including good computer and programming skills (e.g., Matlab). Close collaboration with experimental studies is emphasized. 

2) ‘Conducting human fMRI experiment’. We investigate value-based decision making, reward-oriented behavior, and social value-based decision-making and learning. For instance, using model-based analyses, we are interested in investigating how values associated with different options is processed in the brain to reach a final decision, and/or how learning about another person affects one’s own value-based decisions. 
The ideal candidate should have a qualified research experience in human fMRI experiments in the area or related area, but candidates with a strong record and experience in different research areas, using fMRI, psychophysics or related technique (e.g., single-unit neurophysiology) are also considered. Candidates who wish to pursue experimental studies by linking experimental and computational approaches are encouraged to apply. Solid quantitative skills are appreciated. Research is conducted by using RIKEN BSI's 4 Tesla MRI system, in collaboration with Dr. Kang Cheng (RIKEN BSI, fMRI Support Unit) and other excellent collaborators. 

3) ‘Analyzing neural data’ and ‘developing methods of analysis’. We analyze neural data with our interest described in the topic 1), wherein the data is often supplied from by our collaborators (e.g. data of dopamine neural activity from behaving animals’ experiment). In addition, we are interested in developing methods of analysis for simultaneously recorded neural data with an emphasis on understanding consequences of neural interactions, including higher-order interactions. Expected backgrounds and skills for ideal candidates are similar to those under theme 1) described above. 

For all the topics 1)-3), the successful candidate will be expected to conduct independent research as well as work closely in a team; therefore, a good balance of self-reliance and collegiality is required. Good communication skills are essential (working language is English at our institute.) 

RIKEN Brain Science Institute (2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama, Japan) is located in greater Tokyo area, about 30 min from the center of the city by train (http://www.brain.riken.jp). Starting salaries will be commensurate with relevant ability and experience. Commuting and housing allowances will be provided. Social insurance will be applied. Subsequent contracts, including salary adjustment, will be determined and renewed annually, upon review, for up to five years. 

Best wishes, 

Hiro 

Hiroyuki Nakahara, Ph.D. 
Laboratory for Integrated Theoretical Neuroscience 
RIKEN Brain Science Institute