Scientist I – Computation Through 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 Allen Institute for Neural Dynamics (AIND) is focused on foundational neuroscience. We are interested in how the brain builds our understanding of the complex world to guide the flexible behaviors that address our biological needs. The answers will be in terms of defined neuron types and circuits interacting across the whole brain and body. We develop experimental and theoretical methods and employ a team-based approach for discovery neuroscience. Knowledge, data, models, and tools will be widely shared, in part to support the development of therapies for brain disorders.

AIND is seeking a Scientist to lead efforts in building and analyzing neural network models for the development of hypotheses to guide analysis of neural and behavioral data. The ideal candidate will be team-oriented, have deep knowledge in neuroscience and statistics, and a strong interest in the neural implementation of computation. 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. The goal is to make fundamental discoveries about computation for continuous learning and 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

• Develop models that generate hypotheses for analyzing neural and behavioral data
• Develop and implement quantitative models and analyses of behavior and neural measurements
• 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
• Engage deeply with current literature, including ~quarterly presentations in our theory journal club

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, statistics, computer science, or related field; or equivalent combination of education and experience

Preferred Education 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 infrastructures and task-driven or data-driven network models
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong publication record

Physical Demands

• Fine motor movements in fingers/hands to operate computers and other office equipment; repetitive motion with lab equipment

Travel

• Attendance and participation in national and international conferences required

Additional Comments

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

Annualized Salary Range

• $77,250 - $103,000 *

* Final salary depends on required education for the role, experience, and level of skills relevant to the role, along with work location, where applicable.

Benefits

• Employees (and their families) are eligible to enroll in benefits per eligibility rules outlined in the Allen Institute’s Benefits Guide. These benefits include medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance. Employees are also eligible to enroll in the Allen Institute’s 401k plan. Paid time off is also available as outlined in the Allen Institute’s Benefits Guide. Details on the Allen Institute’s benefits offering are located at the following link to the Benefits Guide: https://alleninstitute.org/careers/benefits.

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