Scientist I - Computation through Dynamicsa/ND is seeking 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. The goal is to make fundamental discoveries about multi-regional neural computation for continuous learning and flexible behaviors, and to generate insights that inform downstream computational modeling work and new experiments.
This position is full-time and of a limited duration, with an
expected end date of February 1, 2030.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
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, 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
Physical Demands- Fine motor movements in fingers/hands to operate computers and other office equipment; repetitive motion with lab equipment
Position Type/Expected Hours of Work- This role is currently able to work both remotely and onsite in a hybrid work environment. We are a Washington State employer, and the primary work location for all Allen Institute employees is 615 Westlake Ave N.; any remote work must be performed in Washington State.
- This position is full-time and of a limited duration, with an expected end date of February 1, 2030.
Travel - Attendance and participation in national and international conferences required
Additional Comments- **Please note, this opportunity offers relocation assistance**
- **Please note, this opportunity may offer work visa sponsorship**
Annualized Salary Range* 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 Institutes 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.
