Postdoctoral Researcher Opportunity: Join the Ohmae Lab at CIBR!

About the Lab

Our research group combines systems neuroscience and modern AI to study neocortico-cerebellar cognition.

We ask how the brain processes sequential information and learns through prediction-error to build abilities ranging from basic motor skills to higher cognitive functions, including language. We pursue this goal through an integrated approach that combines large-scale neuronal recordings from awake, behaving animals with deep learning–based computational modeling.

Core methods

• Large-scale neural recordings during cognitive tasks using Neuropixels (high-density, multi-channel electrode arrays) and calcium imaging (e.g., fiber photometry)

• Deep learning–based modeling: building biologically constrained ANN models and running simulations to uncover computational mechanisms in the brain.

Research themes (examples)

• Cerebellar sequence processing (mouse experiments)

• fMRI analysis of language and sequence processing (computational)

• Cerebellar BMI development (mouse experiments + computational)

We also take an AI-inspired neuroscience approach: our work suggests that modern AI—especially large language models (LLMs)—may share key computational principles with the brain (see our review “brain–AI convergence” below). By comparing the two, we generate testable hypotheses and evaluate them experimentally.

We warmly invite people who share our vision to join our team. We particularly welcome candidates with expertise in systems neuroscience, animal experiments, neural data analysis, and/or computational modeling.

Our Latest Works:

Brain-AI convergence: Generative world models and hierarchical attention for human intelligence.

https://www.cell.com/patterns/fulltext/S2666-3899(26)00102-9

Emergence of syntax and word prediction in an artificial neural circuit of the cerebellum.

https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-44801-6

Position: Postdoctoral Researcher

Job Description:

Carry out physiological experiments, data analysis, and computer simulations/computational modeling. Set up and maintain experimental equipment. Specific duties will be determined based on the candidate's expertise and project assignments.

Qualifications:

1. Demonstrated excellence in written and spoken English.

2. Strong communication and collaboration skills, including timely reporting of work progress and effective teamwork.

3. PhD degree in neuroscience, biology, engineering, computer science, or a related field.

Application Materials: English CV and a Cover Letter

Application Method: Please send your application materials to the following email address: keiko.kitaguchi@gmail.com with CC to xueshengyuan@cibr.ac.cn.