Carnegie Mellon University's Cognitive Axon Lab, within the Department of Psychology and the Carnegie Mellon Neuroscience Institute, invites applications for a multi-year Postdoctoral Research Associate position. This is an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated researcher who thrives in a collaborative, intellectually stimulating, and challenging environment.
This position is supported by a Collaborative Research in Computational Neuroscience (CRCNS) grant and will focus on computational approaches to understanding neural systems and brain function. The successful candidate will be jointly supervised by Professor Timothy Verstynen (Carnegie Mellon University, Department of Psychology) and Professor Jonathan Rubin (University of Pittsburgh, Department of Mathematics), providing a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of computational neuroscience, psychology, and applied mathematics.
Core responsibilities include:
- Focus on decision-making, linking computational models and mathematical analysis to human and rodent data
- Collect and analyze data
- Conduct research experiments
- Lab maintenance, including equipment maintenance and ordering supplies may be required depending on area and specialty
- Other duties as assigned
Adaptability, excellence, and passion are vital qualities within Carnegie Mellon University. We are in search of a team member who can effectively interact with a varied population of internal and external partners at a high level of integrity. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work.
Qualifications:
- PhD in areas covering computational neuroscience (e.g., neuroscience, mathematics, cognitive science, computer science), or a related discipline required
- Preferred experience in computing, in dynamical systems, and in computational neuroscience
- A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.
Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.
Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays, and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance.
Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and much more!
For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page.
At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.
Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!
Location
Pittsburgh, PAJob Function
Pre/Post-Doctoral Associates & FellowsPosition Type
Postdoctoral Associate / Fellow (Fixed Term)Full Time/Part time
Full timePay Basis
SalaryMore Information:
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Click here to view a listing of employee benefits
Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran.
Statement of Assurance
Skills Required
- PhD in computational neuroscience, neuroscience, mathematics, cognitive science, computer science, or related discipline
- Experience in computing (programming / computational methods)
- Experience in dynamical systems and mathematical analysis
- Experience in computational neuroscience (modeling or analysis of neural systems)
Carnegie Mellon University Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about Carnegie Mellon University and has not been reviewed or approved by Carnegie Mellon University.
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Retirement Support — Retirement support is positioned as a standout, with automatic employer contributions to a TIAA-administered plan at 8% of base salary (and 9.78% for 9‑month academic appointments), plus optional employee deferrals. Vesting after three years is clearly specified, which helps set expectations for long-term value.
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Parental & Family Support — Parental and family support is strengthened by 100% paid parental leave for six weeks and 100% paid maternity leave for 6–8 weeks (delivery-type dependent), effective July 1, 2024. Childcare support is also referenced through a Cyert Center subsidy up to $5,000 per family, alongside no-cost EAP access.
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Wellbeing & Lifestyle Benefits — Wellbeing and lifestyle benefits include free Pittsburgh Regional Transit access and access to fitness classes and facilities, adding recurring non-cash value to the overall package. Pittsburgh’s relatively affordable cost of living can further increase the perceived adequacy of a given salary compared with higher-cost coastal hubs.
Carnegie Mellon University Insights
What We Do
Carnegie Mellon University founder Andrew Carnegie said: "My heart is in the work." No statement better captures the passion and drive of our people to make a real difference. At Carnegie Mellon, we're not afraid of the work. Our educational environment creates problem solvers, drivers of innovation and pioneers in technology and the arts. Employers in every field say our graduates are ready to hit the ground running the day they graduate. So, join us. Whether you're looking for a career or an education. Or both.
