Research Scientist - Computational Neuroscience

Astera Institute•Emeryville, CA

2d•$90,000 - $200,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Astera Institute is seeking a Research Scientist in Computational Neuroscience to develop computational models of neural circuits and brain function. Astera is a private foundation on a mission to steer science and technology toward an abundant future. We believe the coming years will bring an era of unprecedented scientific and technological advancement as exponential progress in AI converges with central advances in other fields to dramatically accelerate innovation. This inflection point provides an unparalleled opportunity to fundamentally rethink the institutions, systems, and tools that drive scientific progress. Unlike traditional non-profit research organizations, projects supported by Astera operate like high-velocity startups, allowing us to focus on ambitious goals, match structure to problem, and attract strong technical talent and leadership.

Requirements

Experience programming in Python
Familiarity with scientific computing libraries such as Jax, Pytorch, NumPy, SciPy, or similar tools
Research experience in systems, computational, and theoretical neuroscience.
Experience working with data analysis, statistics, or machine learning workflows
Ability to work independently and communicate technical findings clearly

Nice To Haves

Experience with machine learning or dynamical systems modeling
C++ programming experience is a strong bonus
Familiarity with Linux, Git, and high-performance computing environments
Neural circuit modeling
Synaptic plasticity and learning
Large-scale brain simulations
Data-driven modeling of neural systems
Interest in wet lab experiments to collect more data or test theories

Responsibilities

Read, analyze, and synthesize neuroscience, cognitive science, and computational neuroscience literature.
Develop biologically plausible computational models of neural circuits, brain regions, and large-scale brain systems.
Compare model predictions with experimental data and refine models accordingly.
Develop novel algorithms inspired by biological neural computation.
Analyze large-scale neural and behavioral datasets to inform and evaluate computational models.
Stay current with advances in neuroscience, machine learning, and computational modeling.
Propose and pursue original research directions that advance our understanding of brain computation.
Make novel scientific contributions to computational neuroscience through the development of new theories and models.
Document research findings and communicate results through technical reports, publications, and presentations.