Research Scientist - Computational Neuroscience

ABOUT ASTERA:

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. You can read more about our mission, vision, and programming here https://astera.org/vision/.

POSITION SUMMARY

Astera Institute is seeking a Research Scientist in Computational Neuroscience to develop computational models of neural circuits and brain function.

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.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

- 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

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

- Experience with machine learning or dynamical systems modeling

- C++ programming experience is a strong bonus

- Familiarity with Linux, Git, and high-performance computing environments

NICE-TO-HAVE AREAS OF INTEREST

- 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

EDUCATION

- Ph.D. or equivalent demonstrated expertise in Computational Neuroscience, Neuroscience, Computer Science, Physics, Electrical Engineering, Applied Mathematics, or a related discipline.

LOCATION

This position can be remote, hybrid, or onsite at our office in Emeryville, CA. Some travel may occasionally be required for collaboration and team events.

COMPENSATION

The posted wage range is based on location in the Bay Area. The successful candidate will receive a competitive compensation package, commensurate with their experience and location.

- Benefits Summary https://www.notion.so/Benefits-Summary-Permanent-Staff-224445d3aea54599a8cad2ef46640b21?source=copy_link

CULTURAL ALIGNMENT

- Surprising problem-solver – you love finding unexpected solutions to problems we don't even know we have, and see options where others only see constraints.

- Flexible by default – you don't draw hard lines around your job description and expect your role to evolve significantly over 6–12 months.

- Bias to action – you launch and iterate on thoughtful experiments rather than waiting for perfect plans, and you're energized by novel problems.

- High standards, internally driven – you believe you can build the world's best vehicle for unleashing extraordinary individuals to create public goods, and you hold yourself to that bar without benchmarking against others.

- Open to feedback – You create opportunities to give and receive honest feedback, staying focused on both personal and team growth, and committing to transparency even when it’s uncomfortable.

- Operate with the highest levels of integrity, judgment, and stewardship -- you treat residents, peers, and vendors with genuine respect for their time and contributions.

- Embrace the tools that define great work today – Astera is building for an AI-driven future and equips the team accordingly. We see these as genuine force multipliers, not optional extras, and we expect our people to use them.

- Understand that theories are opinions until they’re adequately validated with data – follow the scientific method rigorously.