Positions Available

Technical Staff position available

Laboratory for Integrated Theoretical Neuroscience
RIKEN Brain Science Institute

We build mathematical and computational models of neural processes to understand brain functions. We are particularly interested in the neural mechanisms used for decision making and reward-related behavior, including social intelligence and motivation. We investigate the coding capability of neural populations and neural circuits at the interface between systems and cellular neuroscience. Close collaboration with experimental studies is emphasized, e.g. we conduct fMRI and psychophysics experimental studies in-house and also often work in collaboration with experimental laboratories. Also, an integral stage in our work is to develop theories for massive information processing and statistical learning and, furthermore, put these theories into practice to reinforce our investigation. Examples of practical work include applying the most advanced analysis methods to experimental neuroscience data and making robot behavior more adaptive and more social. Please refer to our lab’s home page for more details. URL: http://www.itn.brain.riken.jp

1. Decision making and adaptive learning
2. Neuroeconomics and brain mechanisms for social intelligence
3. Computation and dynamics of neural populations and neural circuits
4. Intelligence regulated by genes and molecules
5. Theory and application of massive information processing and statistical learning
   (robot learning and data analysis, e.g. fMRI and multi-unit recording)

We seek enthusiastic and well-qualified individuals to join our research activities. Individuals with a research experience in computational neuroscience are most encouraged. We also consider individuals with a strong quantitative background, who sincerely wish to learn about neuroscience and work on research topics within our laboratory’s interests. For most of the research conducted by our laboratory, a strong theoretical background (e.g. computational neuroscience, mathematics, physics, computer science) is expected. However, applicants with a strong experimental background who wish to learn computational approaches and/or work on experimental studies to bridge experimental and computational studies of our laboratory will also be considered. Good computer programming skills are expected. The successful applicant will be expected to conduct independent research as well as work closely in a team; therefore, a good balance of self-reliance and collegiality, implying a good attitude toward balancing independence and inter-dependence, is required. Also, a reasonable amount of supporting work as a technical staff, research-wise and administration-wise, is required. Good communication skills are also essential. Please refer to our lab’s home page for more details. URL: http://www.itn.brain.riken.jp

The RIKEN Brain Science Institute is an internationally recognized research center located near Tokyo, Japan (working language is English while there are also opportunities to take Japanese classes). Applicants for technical staff positions must have a bachelor’s degree at least (masters and Ph. D holders are also welcome to apply; also see the above URL for other possible opportunities). Starting salaries will be commensurate with relevant ability and experience. Subsequent contracts, including revised salaries, will be determined and renewed annually, upon review, for up to five years.

If you are interested in applying, please prepare (1) a cover letter specifying the job opportunity you are interested in, (2) curriculum vitae, including a publications list, (3) a research statement describing your past achievements and future interests, (4) the names and contact information of two or three references with a brief description of your relationship to each reference, and (5) (optional) any additional information you think may be useful (e.g. additional skills and background, hobbies, general interests, and so on).

Note: Provided documents are strictly protected under the RIKEN Privacy Policy and will be used only for the purpose of applicant screening. Personal information will not be disclosed, transferred or loaned to a third party under any circumstances without legitimate reason.

Please submit your application materials, preferably as e-mail attachments, to or, if necessary, by postal mail to:

“Job Application”
c/o Dr. Hiroyuki Nakahara
Lab for Integrated Theoretical Neuroscience
RIKEN Brain Science Institute
2-1 Hirosawa
Wako, Saitama 351-0198
Japan

Informal enquiries also welcomed (please send email to ).