Postdoc & Technician Positions job with OIST Graduate University Biological Physics Theory Unit

The Biological Physics Theory Unit at OIST Graduate University has openings for a postdoc and a technician to join our research team on data-driven approaches to complex systems, especially including the analysis of animal behavior and, in a new line of research, deep neural networks.

Work in the unit has pioneered a new field, the physics of behavior: from individual organisms to entire societies.  The systems we study range from the solitary movements of the nematode C. elegans and Drosophila larva, to social behaviors in zebrafish, to the complex collective of an ant colony.  In all these cases we seek general organizing principles and work in close collaboration with scientists from around the world to develop and analyze novel, quantitative experiments of organisms in natural motion.  These are complex, purposeful systems and our work is notable for combining theory with data-driven understanding derived from cutting-edge precision experiments. 

Additionally, we are leveraging machine learning to explore how our behavioral understanding can be used for important societal problems, such as the control of invasive species. We also aim to exploit our data-driven approach to understand the behavior of deep networks

Required skills

• For the postdoctoral position a PhD in physics or related quantitative discipline is required.   
• For the technician position a MSc is required in physics, computer science or related discipline as well as programming experience. 
• Fluent English conversation and writing skills are required.

Preferred skills

• For both positions, experience with deep learning is beneficial but can also develop as part of the position.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on general principles of behavior in living and artificial systems using ideas from physics and/or machine learning. Within the overall competencies of the unit, the exact topic/project directions are flexible and negotiable. 
• Contribute to unit teamwork through mentoring and organizational efforts.

Submission Documents

• Motivation letter (one page or less) 
• Curriculum Vitae 
• Names and email contacts of three references

Benefits / Offer:

A competitive salary and relocation package are offered. Standard medical insurance and housing allowance are included. This an ideal position for those seeking quantitative, cross-disciplinary experience in the understanding of complex systems.