Careers

Dec. 20, 2023

Research Scientist Position
Brain Image Analysis Unit, Center for Brain Science（W23266)

Laboratory

Brain Image Analysis Unit, Center for Brain Science (Unit Leader: Henrik Skibbe)

Research Area

Engineering, Mathematical and Information Science, Computer Science

Research field

Computer Science

Job title and description

Job title

Research Scientist 1 position
Research Scientist is defined as those with a doctoral degree more than 5 years.

Job description

The Brain Image Analysis Unit is at the forefront of applying advanced machine learning techniques, particularly deep learning, to enhance brain imaging data processing and analysis. Specializing in a range of imaging data such as two-photon and bright-field microscopy, along with MRI scans, our unit fosters interdisciplinary collaborations with experts in computer science, neuroscience, and medicine to push boundaries in brain imaging analysis.

We are on the lookout for candidates passionate about developing deep learning algorithms for microscopy and MRI brain image analysis. Potential research areas include:

Enhanced segmentation of neural tracer data in fluorescence microscopy.
In-depth analysis of white matter hyper-intensities in human MRI brain scans.
Innovative techniques for improved segmentation in biomedical imaging.
While experience in biomedical image analysis is beneficial, it is not mandatory. Ideal candidates should possess a strong foundation in computer vision or image processing, eager to apply their expertise to novel challenges in the biomedical realm.

Qualifications

Candidates should hold a Ph.D. in a field related to our research focus, such as computer science, biomedical engineering, or a closely related discipline. We expect a demonstrated proficiency in developing deep learning techniques for image analysis/processing, evidenced by publications in reputable peer-reviewed journals or major conferences in relevant fields. Additional expertise in areas like biological/medical/neural image processing, image registration, computer vision, machine learning, and optimization will be considered a significant asset.

Fluency in English, both written and verbal, is required. Candidates should also be proficient in programming, preferably with experience in C++, Python, or JavaScript, at an advanced level. We value the ability to collaborate effectively in a multidisciplinary team environment, showcasing both technical acumen and interpersonal skills.

Work location

Branch and address
RIKEN Wako　(2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198）
RIKEN has implemented a work-from-home system. Employees can work from home in accordance with the prescribed procedures.

Salary and benefits

  1. A one-year fixed-term employment contract, renewable based on evaluation, to a maximum of the end of the fiscal year 2028 (March 31,2029).
  2. RIKEN may adjust the above maximum period of renewability based on a) the employee’s abilities, work load at the time of contract completion, performance and work attitude and b) the continuation of the employee’s center, laboratory or project and RIKEN’s management situation and budget at the time. In principle, employment contracts will not be renewed for individuals older than 65 years.

In principle, the first two months of employment is considered a trial period. Salary will be a monthly salary based on experience, ability, and performance, and will consist of a base salary and a variable salary. The variable salary will be determined each fiscal year based on experience, ability, and performance. The monthly base salary is 355,000 JPY as of April 1st 2024. The monthly base salary and variable salary are subject to change due to amendments to RIKEN regulations.

Discretionary work, commuting and housing allowances will be provided. Social insurance will be applied.

The approximate amount of monthly salary at the time of employment:
The monthly salary including discretionary work allowance at the time of employment will be 403,000 JPY or more.

Mandatory membership in the RIKEN Mutual Benefit Society (RIKEN Kyosaikai).
This position falls under the specialized duties discretionary work system; one working day will be calculated as 7 hours and 30 minutes.
Days off include public holidays, New Year's holidays (Dec. 29 - Jan 3), and RIKEN Foundation Day.
Paid leave includes annual paid leave (up to 20 days depending on the month of employment), special paid leave (childcare, family nursing care, etc.), and work life balance holidays (up to 7 days depending on the month of employment).
There are also additional leave systems such as maternity leave, childcare leave, and family nursing care leave.
Smoking is not permitted on site except in designated smoking areas. Smoking will be entirely prohibited on site from April 2024.
These and other provisions are in accordance with RIKEN regulations.

RIKEN is promoting a Gender Equity Program by taking various measures to create a workplace where both men and women are able to give full rein to their talents and abilities. When applicants are judged to be equally qualified on the basis of fair and impartial criteria, women applicants will be given preference.

Also, eligible for an exemption from repayment for category 1 scholarship loans provided by the Japan Student Services Organization before fiscal year 2003, and eligible applying for the MEXT Grants-in-Aid for Scientific Research (Kakenhi).

The Wako Campus has an on-site daycare, RIKEN Kids Wako. For details, please send an email to the HR at kids [at] riken.jp.

Application and required documents

  1. Complete CV (with photo and email address)
    WORD(56KB) or EXCEL(159KB)
    *Write the RIKEN job ad number “W23266”, indicated in the parentheses next to the job title, in the RIKEN job ad number section in the upper right corner of your CV.
  2. List of research achievement
  3. External funding awarded
  4. Summary of research experience to date
  5. Reason for applying for the post (personal strengths, motivation, future research plans, career aspirations, etc.)
  6. A letter of recommendation from the current supervisor (If unavailable, a letter from a substitute reference will be acceptable.）
    *Please specify the referee’s contact information (Name, affiliation, job title, phone number, and email address)
  7. Consent form for handling personal information based on GDPR
    If you are a resident of the European Economic Area (EEA), you are required to submit the document, “Consent form for handling personal information based on GDPR” with your signature.

    *You will find detailed information about General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) on the following website: https://ec.europa.eu/info/law/law-topic/data-protection_en

How to apply

The above documents except the recommendation letters combined into a single ZIP file should be sent to bia-jobs [at] ml.riken.jp
The file name of the ZIP should contain your contact email address.

Recommendation letters must be directly sent from the referees to bia-jobs [at] ml.riken.jp with the file name " [applicant’s name] (Recommendation letter)". Please specify the applicant's name, referee's name and contact information in the recommendation letter.

If a confirmation email is not received within 7 days after submission, please contact: bia-jobs [at] ml.riken.jp

Note: All the submitted documents will not be returned.

Deadline

Open until the position is filled

Handling personal data
Submitted documents are strictly protected under the RIKEN Privacy Policy and will be used only for the purpose of applicant screening. Personal information will not be disclosed, transferred or loaned to a third party under any circumstances without just cause.

Selection process

Application screening, interview and oral presentation by selected applicants

Start of employment

April 1st, 2024 (Negotiable)

Contact information

RIKEN CBS
Brain Image Analysis Unit
Email: bia-jobs [at] ml.riken.jp
For inquiries, please send an email.