Postdoctoral fellow in visual neurophysiology and deep modelling

Postdoctoral fellow in visual neurophysiology and deep modelling

We invite applications for postdoctoral fellow positions in the Ponce Lab at Harvard Medical School. Our group investigates how populations of neurons in the primate visual cortex represent and transform visual information. We use large-scale electrophysiology and closed-loop visual experiments with macaque monkeys to discover the principles underlying cortical computation.

We are seeking highly motivated experimentalists who are deeply excited about working with nonhuman primates and connecting those results to computational models of the brain. The ideal candidates will enjoy hands-on neural recordings, behavioral training, and visual experimentation, while also developing and testing deep neural network models of visual representation. In short: experiments first, models second.

Current and upcoming projects include studying how psychoactive compounds such as MDMA and methamphetamine (MA) alter visual processing in the primate brain. We are also expanding into high-resolution behavioral tracking to link neural activity with naturalistic behavior and perception.

The successful candidate will work closely with Dr. Carlos R. Ponce and collaborators to design and execute experiments in visual cortex, analyze neuronal population data, and build generative or predictive models to simulate cortical responses. The position requires strong experimental engagement and a collaborative mindset within a multidisciplinary team of neuroscientists, engineers, and computational modelers. We especially value candidates who bring energy, curiosity, and a high-bandwidth, team-oriented approach to their work.

Requirement(s):

• Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D. in neuroscience, biomedical engineering, computational neuroscience, physics, psychology or related field
• Strong interest and experience in systems neuroscience, electrophysiology, or primate behavior
• Familiarity with computational models of vision (e.g., CNNs, deep generative models) is preferred but not required
• Excellent communication skills and enthusiasm for collaborative work

Required documents:

• Curriculum vitae
• Brief summary of Ph.D. research
• Cover letter describing your interest in the Ponce Lab and ideas for future projects

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Selected candidates will be invited for in-person interviews and research presentations. References will be requested at later stages.

Information regarding postdoctoral fellow salary, which is determined by the number of years post PhD, and benefits can be found at https://postdoc.hms.harvard.edu/guidelines.

Harvard University and Harvard Medical School are equal opportunity employers. This position is on-site in Boston, MA.