Scientist I – Neurophysiology of Dynamic Decision Making – Neural Dynamics

The mission of the Allen Institute is to unlock the complexities of bioscience and advance our knowledge to improve human health. Using an open science, multi-scale, team-oriented approach, the Allen Institute focuses on accelerating foundational research, developing standards and models, and cultivating new ideas to make a broad, transformational impact on science.

The mission of the Allen Institute for Neural Dynamics is to answer fundamental questions about brain function. Specifically, how does our brain build our understanding of the complex world around us to guide the flexible behaviors that address our biological needs? The answers will be in terms of defined neuron types interacting across the whole brain and body, requiring us to develop next-generation neurotechnologies and employ a team-based approach for discovery neuroscience. Knowledge, data, and tools will be widely shared, in part to support the development of therapies for brain disorders.

We are seeking a scientist to lead a project to uncover the functions of neuromodulators (e.g., serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine) and networks in the frontal cortex and basal ganglia during dynamic decision making in mice. The ideal candidate will be team-oriented, have deep knowledge in neuroscience and behavior, and a strong interest in quantitative electrophysiology and computations in brain-wide circuits. This position will leverage state-of-the-art behavioral, computational, electrophysiological, and imaging methods, as well as molecular and transgenic resources. The goal is to make fundamental discoveries about identified cell types within brain circuits during flexible behaviors.

The Allen Institute believes that team science significantly benefits from the participation of diverse voices, experiences, and backgrounds. Progress in science benefits from multiple perspectives. We are committed to increasing diversity across every team and encourage people from all backgrounds to apply for this role.

Essential Functions

• Design and perform experiments involving in vivo cell-type-specific electrophysiology, neural manipulations, and carefully controlled mouse behavior
• Develop and implement quantitative models and analyses of behavior and neural measurements
• Collaborate with scientists and engineers to develop and evaluate methods for data collection, quantification, and analysis
• Train team members to perform procedures
• Collaborate internally and externally to analyze data and develop hypotheses
• Present results internally, via talks and progress reports, and to the external community, via conferences and publications

Note: Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. This description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions; it does not proscribe or restrict the tasks that may be assigned.

Required Education and Experience

• PhD in neuroscience, biological sciences, biomedical engineering, or related field; or equivalent combination of degree and experience

Preferred Education and Experience

• 3-5 years of postdoctoral experience
• Experience with neurophysiology and behavior
• Demonstrated proficiency in conducting collaborative, multidisciplinary research
• Strong understanding of statistics and data science
• Ability to write reusable code in Python or Matlab
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong publication record

Work Environment

• May enter laboratory environment, including potential exposure to lasers, biohazards

Physical Demands

• Fine motor movements in fingers/hands to operate computers and other office equipment; repetitive motion with lab equipment
• Stooping, bending, crouching
• Reaching, or climbing ladders

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

• This role is currently working onsite and is expected to work onsite for the majority of working hours. The primary work location for this role is 615 Westlake Ave N., with flexibility to work remotely on a limited basis.

Travel

• Occasional participation in national and international conferences required

Additional Eligibility Qualifications

• In keeping with our focus on employee safety, all employees must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 as a condition of employment unless a medical or religious exemption is approved. All employees will be required to keep their vaccination status up to date according to CDC guidance and our policy.

Additional Comments

• **Please note, this opportunity offers relocation assistance**
• **Please note, this opportunity offers work visa sponsorship**

It is the policy of the Allen Institute to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, the Allen Institute will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.