Open Position: Post Doc in Topological and Network Neuroscience
Job Description We invite applications for one Postdoctoral Researcher in Topological and Network Neuroscience to work with Dr. Giovanni Petri at ISI Foundation. This is a full-time, 1-year fixed term position (renewable for a second year). This interdisciplinary project will leverage recent advances in topological data analysis tools to investigate structural and dynamical alteration in brain connectivity and functions, with special attention to neurodegenerative diseases. The appointed researcher is expected to interact with members of the group, as well as with graduate and phd students, and to work across a range of applications of network and topological data analysis, exemplified by the multiple internal and external collaborations (with the ISI "Mathematics and Foundations of Complex Systems” Lab led by Prof. Yamir Moreno, with the computational neuroscience group led by Dr. Demian Battaglia, Aix-Marseille; with the Brain Dynamics Lab, led by Prof. Manish Saggar, Stanford; with the cognitive control lab led by Prof. Jonathan Cohen, Princeton). While the appointed researcher will focus on analysis and modelling of neurodegenerative conditions, the techniques developed are expected to be valuable across a range of data-driven approaches, e.g. complex systems, computational topology, machine learning and computational mesoscopic modelling. Duties of the researches will range from experimental studies to theoretical and methodological work including the development and testing of computational algorithms. In addition to the main research project, the group works also on fundamental problems in statistical topology, simplicial modelling of social and biological systems and predictability of socio-biological systems.
We welcome applicants with a strong background in computational neuroscience, neuroimaging, statistical physics, machine learning, artificial intelligence, complex systems, or other closely related fields. Our priority is to attract researchers who are either technically very strong and interested in asking bold new questions about how our brain works, or coming from the neurosciences and want to position themselves at the forefront of data analysis techniques.
Specifically you will:
Design and implement large-scale studies of functional neural data based on concepts borrowed from topological data analysis, network science and deep learning, working on high-quality datasets of Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s Diseases and dementia;
Decode and interpret brain spatio-temporal motifs and their role in integrating (or hindering, in the case of pathologies) information processing;
Carry out innovative, impactful research in the areas of: topological data analysis, functional brain networks and mesoscopic computational modelling;
Produce high quality scientific and technical outputs including journal articles, conference papers and presentations and technical reports.
Required skills: Ph.D in Neuroscience, Computational Neuroscience, Mathematics, Physics or related quantitative field. Experience in complex networks, statistical mechanics or topological data analysis. Have good programming skills in at least one of the following languages Matlab, Python, C++. Fluency in English both spoken and written. Highly collaborative spirit and personal initiative. And obviously excellent personal skills.
Additional desired skills: Experience with EEG and fMRI is optional but appreciated. Knowledge of computational models of neural populations or whole-brain brain modelling is optional, but appreciated.
ISI offers: We provide an unusually rich opportunity for collegial interaction in a highly competitive environment. Mentoring will be provided by a multidisciplinary faculty team including co-investigators on the project (Dr. Giovanni Petri, Prof. Yamir Moreno, Prof. Francesco Bonchi) and collaborators from neurology, computer science, mathematics and complex systems science. We provide a competitive salary according to the qualifications and medical and pension benefits according to the Italian State. Applications received before the February 15th 2019 will be given priority, but the position will remain open until filled. The researcher will be appointed for one year with the possibility to extend for a second year, based on satisfactory performance. To apply, please send your cover letter, curriculum vitae and professional reference list to Dr. Giovanni Petri.
ISI is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, religion or disability. Position details
Length: 12 months, full-time, with potential to be extended for a second year. Location: ISI Foundation, Turin, Italy Starting date: as soon as possible Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Evaluation begins immediately. ----