Seeking Research Scientist or Postdoctoral Researcher (26-1676) Part-time

Research Scientist or Postdoctoral Researcher

Laboratory for Neural Computation and Adaptation RIKEN Center for Brain Science (Team Director: Taro Toyoizumi)

Our research is within the field of Computational Neuroscience. We utilize computer models to explore how information is processed in the brain and how the brain circuits adapt to the environment. Drawing on analytical techniques from statistical physics and information theory, we probe the key functional properties of neural circuits. We apply these techniques to distill diverse experimental findings into a few core concepts. We hold a particular interest in activity-dependent forms of plasticity in the brain, which exert significant influences on learning, memory, and development. Leveraging mathematical models, we aim to formulate a theory that bridges cellular-level plasticity rules and computation. The capacity of neurons to represent and retain information is gauged from the structure and behavior of resulting circuits. For additional details, refer to Toyoizumi Lab

Engaging in computational neuroscience research. The successful applicant will take the lead on the CREST BioDX project, which focuses on “Understanding sleep function in the brain through multiscale approaches.” This project will be undertaken in partnership with Drs. Kaoru Inokuchi (U. Toyama) and Tatsuya Haga (CiNet).

* The scheduled completion date of this project is March 31, 2029.

Applicants should have a PhD or are expected to obtain a PhD by the date of employment in physics, neuroscience, mathematics, computer science, engineering, or a related area. We seek highly motivated postdoctoral researchers with a strong analytical background and interest in neuroscience. Candidates who want to bridge theory and experiment are also encouraged to apply.

RIKEN Wako Campus (2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198) RIKEN may order the employee to change work locations, if necessary, in accordance with RIKEN regulations.

Salary will be an annual salary based on experience, ability, and performance, and will consist of a base salary and a variable salary. The variable salary will be determined each fiscal year based on experience, ability, and performance. Discretionary work, commuting and housing allowances will be provided. Social insurance will be applied.

The total amount of monthly discretionary work allowance and monthly salary at the time of hiring will be 448,990 JPY or more for Research Scientist, and 382,610 JPY or more for Postdoctoral Researcher.

RIKEN has a telecommuting system, but this position requires attendance at the work location. Therefore, the telecommuting system is not available for this position, in principle.

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 Saturdays and Sundays, public holidays, New Year's holidays (Dec. 29 – Jan. 3), and RIKEN Foundation Day. Paid leave includes annual paid leave (up to 20 days depending on the month of employment), special paid leave (caring for a sick child, family nursing care, etc.), and work life balance holidays (up to 7 days depending on the month of employment). There are also additional leave systems such as maternity leave, childcare leave, and family nursing care leave. Smoking is entirely prohibited on site. These and other provisions are in accordance with RIKEN regulations. Mandatory membership in the RIKEN Mutual Benefit Society (RIKEN Kyosaikai).

Eligible to apply for the MEXT Grants-in-Aid for Scientific Research (Kakenhi). RIKEN is actively undertaking initiatives to promote gender equality and diversity, and moving forward with the establishment of a diverse and vibrant research environment. If multiple candidates are found to have the same aptitude following a fair assessment, active efforts will be made to recruit female candidates. The Wako Campus has an on-site daycare, RIKEN Kids Wako. For details, please send an email to kids@riken.jp.

Open until the position is filled