Job advertisement for a Research Scientist position in Laboratory
for Distributed Cognitive Processing,
RIKEN Center for Brain Science

Research Scientist Position Available (Position Number W19124)

Institution and Laboratory:
RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Wakoshi, Japan. Laboratory for Distributed Cognitive Processing (Team Leader: Lukas Ian Schmitt, PhD)
Lab Page: https://cbs.riken.jp/en/faculty/l.schmitt/
Official Posting: https://cbs.riken.jp/en/careers/20190906_w19124_l.schmitt_r.html
Contact: lukas.schmitt [at] riken.jp

Position:
Research Scientist 1 position

Research Area:
The laboratory for distributed cognitive processing investigates how dynamic interactions across brain networks make it possible to form an internal model of the outside world and use it to guide behavior. We are seeking an enthusiastic candidate to take the lead in developing analytical and computational approaches needed to study the neural implementations of cognitive processes relevant to this ability, such as working memory, in the context of hierarchical decision making. The project would involve the following:

1. Development of new analytical techniques (such as novel approaches for dimensionality reduction or neural modelling) to assess functional neural dynamics based on spiking activity recorded in the thalamus and cortex of mice performing cognitive tasks.
2. Application and improvement of methods to capture latent processes in behavior (e.g. using bayesian decision theory) and investigate them using optogenetic control of brain circuits.

Qualifications:
The successful applicant should have the following characteristics:

1. An enthusiastic attitude along with an interest in understanding complex cognitive functions like working memory, attention and sensory decision-making.
2. Completion or expectation of a Ph.D. in a relevant field (e.g., Neuroscience, Cognitive Science, Computer Science).
3. Experience with data analysis or modelling using applicable programming languages (e.g., using MATLAB, Python, R or similar).
4. Ability to work in an international setting as well as communication skills in English.
5. Direct experience with the analysis of extracellular recordings of spiking neurons and/or with machine learning based approaches would be preferred but is not required.

Work Location:
RIKEN Wako Branch (wakoshi, saitama)

Employment Salary and benefit information:

1. A one-year fixed-term employment contract, renewable based on evaluation, to a maximum of the end of the fiscal year (March 31) in which the employee completes 7 years of employment. Salary is negotiable but will be commensurate with qualification and experience. Health care benefits, housing (rental) subsidy and commuting (transport) subsidy will be provided.
2. RIKEN may adjust the above maximum period of renewability based on a) the employee’s abilities, work load at the time of contract completion, performance and work attitude and b) the continuation of the employee’s center, laboratory or project and RIKEN’s management situation and budget at the time. In principle, employment contracts will not be renewed for individuals older than 65 years.
3. The employee’s period of fixed-term employment cannot exceed 10 years from the initial date of hire (or 10 years from April 1, 2013 for fixed-term employees already at RIKEN prior to this date).

Application Documents:
(1) Complete CV (with photo and email address)
(2) List of research achievements and publications
(3) Research summary and reasons for applying (approx. 1 page)
(4) 1-2 letters of recommendation (including one from the current supervisor, if available)
(Recommendation letters must be emailed directly from the reference to lukas.schmitt [at] riken.jp)
(5) (EU residents) Consent form for handling personal information based on GDPR
If you are a resident of the European Economic Area (EEA), you are required to submit the document, “Consent form for handling personal information based on GDPR” with your signature.

• Detailed information about General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is available on the following website: https://ec.europa.eu/info/law/law-topic/data-protection_en

Send the PDF formatted application by email to lukas.schmitt [at] riken.jp (please change [at] to the @ symbol).
Note: Application documents will not be returned.

Search Duration:
Open until the position is filled.

Additional Information:
In principle, there will be a trial period of employment (2 months).
Social insurance will be applied to compensation. Membership in the RIKEN Mutual Benefit Society (RIKEN Kyosaikai) is mandatory.
This position falls under the specialized duties discretionary work system; one working day will be calculated as 7 hours and 30 minutes. Days off include public holidays, New Year’s holidays (Dec. 29 – Jan 3), and RIKEN Foundation Day.

These and other provisions are in accordance with RIKEN regulations.
RIKEN is promoting a Gender Equity Program by taking various measures to create a workplace where both men and women are able to give full rein to their talents and abilities. When applicants are judged to be equally qualified on the basis of fair and impartial criteria, women applicants will be given preference.
http://www.riken.go.jp/en/careers/working-at-riken/benefits/