Open postdoctoral, Ph.D., and research assistant positions 

We seek outstanding applicants who are interested in developing theoretical models to investigate fundamental questions in Computational and Theoretical Neuroscience. 

The selected candidates will be working on questions addressing how brain computations emerge from the dynamics of the underlying neural circuits and how the neural code is shaped by computational needs and biological constraints of the brain. To tackle these questions, we employ a multidisciplinary approach that combines state-of-the-art modeling techniques and theoretical frameworks, which include but are not limited to data-driven circuit models, biologically realistic deep learning models, abstract neural network models, machine learning methods, and analysis of the neural code.

Our research team, the Theoretical and Computational Neuroscience Laboratory, is on the main UCLA campus and enjoys close collaborations with the world-class neuroscience community at UCLA. The lab, led by Mario Dipoppa, is a cooperative and vibrant environment where all members are offered excellent scientific training and career mentoring. 

We have multiple open positions at different levels. For all these positions, we offer competitive salaries and benefits. Our lab and UCLA provide visa support for international candidates.

Postdoctoral positions. We are looking for candidates, who are eager to solve fundamental questions with a creative mindset. Candidates should have a strong publication track record in Computational Neuroscience or a related quantitative field, including but not limited to Computer Science, Machine Learning, Engineering, Bioinformatics, Physics, Mathematics, and Statistics. Candidates holding or about to obtain a Ph.D. degree, who are interested in joining the laboratory as postdoctoral researchers should submit: i) a CV including a publication list; ii) a copy of a publication or preprint in which they played a significant role (for example, first-author, co-first author, and/or corresponding author); iii) a research statement describing past research and career goals (max. two pages); and iv) contact information for two academic referees.

Ph.D. positions. We are looking for candidates with a profound curiosity for exploring novel research directions in Computational Neuroscience. Candidates should have a strong academic track record in a quantitative field. Candidates interested in joining the laboratory as Ph.D. students should first enroll in one of the graduate programs at UCLA. Informal inquiries on the appropriate graduate program are welcome by email. Candidates should attach a CV and a description of their research interest in their inquiries. 

Research Assistant positions. We are looking for candidates keen on gaining research experience in Computational Neuroscience, pursuing their own projects, and supporting those of other team members. Candidates should have a bachelor's or master's degree in a quantitative discipline and strong programming skills, ideally in Python. Candidates interested in joining the laboratory as research associates should send: i) a CV; ii) a research statement describing past research and career goals (max. one page); and iii) contact information for two academic referees.

UCLA is an Affirmative Action / Equal Opportunity Employer (AA/EOE). We strive to promote an inclusive and collaborative work environment. We welcome applications from diverse backgrounds and perspectives. Individuals from underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.

We strongly encourage candidates to apply early, as applications will be reviewed until the positions are filled. The positions are available immediately, with a flexible starting date. Please submit the application material as a single PDF file with your full name in the file name to mdipoppa at g.ucla.edu. Informal inquiries are welcome.