The Cognitive Axon Lab, in the Department of Psychology and Carnegie Mellon Neuroscience Institute, seeks applications for a multi-year Postdoctoral Research Associate at Carnegie Mellon University. This is a Collaborative Research in Computational Neuroscience (CRCNS) funded position.
The successful candidate will be jointly supervised by Professors Timothy Verstynen (CMU, Psychology) and Jonathan Rubin (University of Pittsburgh, Mathematics). The project specifically focuses on how dynamics of cortico-basal ganglia-thalamic pathways contribute to naturalistic foraging behaviors. The position will be renewed on an annual basis with two years of funding secured.
Core responsibilities include:
- Decision making, linking computational models and mathematical analysis to human and rodent data.
- Managing data analysis and archiving, mentoring students and other trainees
- Presenting results at conferences and in journal publications, and assisting with putting together future funding applications
- 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.
You should demonstrate:
- Analytical skills
- Organization and planning skills
- Problem-solving and reasoning skills
- Strong oral and written communication skills
Qualifications:
- PhD in areas covering cognitive computational neuroscience (e.g., neuroscience, mathematics, cognitive science, computer science), or a related discipline required
- Preferred experience in analysis of behavioral and imaging data, machine learning, and 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 cognitive computational neuroscience, neuroscience, mathematics, cognitive science, computer science, or a related discipline
- Experience analyzing behavioral and imaging data
- Experience with machine learning
- Experience in computational neuroscience
- Strong analytical, organizational, planning, problem-solving, reasoning, oral communication, and written communication skills
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.
