This position is for a software/data engineer that will support a project focused on the relationship between neural activity and behavior. We are seeking a software engineer to work at the intersection of neurobiology and data science in an effort to understand the role of neural activity in animal cognition, learning, and motor control. The role will involve developing shareable tools for data analysis, visualization, and sharing, and working with collaborators. This role will also involve working closely with researchers in our lab to design, implement, and apply novel computational methods for the analysis of neural and behavioral data; devising standardized storage/visualization solutions for complex datasets; and disseminating these tools through the development of open-source software packages. This role is particularly well-suited for applicants with strong technical skills and an interest in neuroscience research, and it constitutes excellent preparation for both graduate study in the computational/life sciences or subsequent work in industry.
Responsibilities will include:
Database coordination - the candidate will maintain and update the codebase related to the MoSeq pipeline. To do so, the candidate will maintain aspects of software code and custom data processing pipelines for complex environments, and to do so will learn from developer meetings with researchers how to design, plan, and implement software that enriches research productivity and reliability.
Data Analysis - the candidate will assist with data analysis using the MoSeq pipeline. To do so, the candidate will begin to build an understanding of research activities through regular engagements with members of the Datta lab, follow a scope of work, project plan, working on and track the progress of small number of milestones at a time related to Moseq analysis, and work in a team of developers and researchers in collaboration with systems professionals to assist with data analysis using MoSeq.
Computer programming - the candidate will be required to generate new computer code to keep the MoSeq platform up to date and to interact with collaborators. To do so, the candidate will troubleshoot problems and suggest improvements to coding practices in the current code, maintain internal code design and development guides for future contributors, and clearly communicate with lab members and computing staff.
Basic Qualifications
Minimum of two years' post-secondary education or relevant work experience
Additional Qualifications and Skills
Bachelor's degree in computer science, neuroscience or a related field (or equivalent experience)
Strong quantitative skills, as demonstrated by familiarity with mathematics, statistics, data science, or some other technical discipline
Proficiency in Python
Software engineering or mathematical modeling project experience, either through coursework or prior employment preferred
Familiarity with neuroscience or artificial intelligence (preferred)
Some knowledge of computer vision techniques (preferred)
Some prior experience with machine learning/optimization frameworks such as PyTorch, TensorFlow, and JAX (preferred)
Familiarity with Git and open-source project experience (preferred)
Strong communication skills.
Additional Information
This is a one-year term position from the date of hire, with the possibility of extension, contingent upon work performance and continued funding to support the position.
The health of our workforce is a priority for Harvard University. With that in mind, we strongly encourage all employees to be up-to-date on CDC-recommended vaccines.
Please note that we are currently conducting a majority of interviews and onboarding remotely and virtually. We appreciate your understanding.
The Harvard Medical School is not able to provide visa sponsorship for this position.
Not ready to apply? Join our talent community to keep in touch and learn about future opportunities! (https://www.gem.com ?formID=16341e35-cbc6-4904-88a3-09b35763307e)
Benefits
We invite you to visit Harvard's Total Rewards website (https://hr.harvard.edu/totalrewards) to learn more about our outstanding benefits package, which may include:
Paid Time Off: 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year (3 weeks for support staff and 4 weeks for administrative/professional staff), 12 accrued sick days per year, 12.5 holidays plus a Winter Recess in December/January, 3 personal days per year (prorated based on date of hire), and up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents who are primary care givers.
Health and Welfare: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, disability and life insurance programs, along with voluntary benefits. Most coverage begins as of your start date.
Work/Life and Wellness: Child and elder/adult care resources including on campus childcare centers, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness programs related to stress management, nutrition, meditation, and more.
Retirement: University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation, based on age and earnings with full vesting after 3 years of service.
Tuition Assistance Program: Competitive program including $40 per class at the Harvard Extension School and reduced tuition through other participating Harvard graduate schools.
Tuition Reimbursement: Program that provides 75% to 90% reimbursement up to $5,250 per calendar year for eligible courses taken at other accredited institutions.
Professional Development: Programs and classes at little or no cost, including through the Harvard Center for Workplace Development and LinkedIn Learning.
Commuting and Transportation: Various commuter options handled through the Parking Office, including discounted parking, half-priced public transportation passes and pre-tax transit passes, biking benefits, and more.
Harvard Facilities Access, Discounts and Perks: Access to Harvard athletic and fitness facilities, libraries, campus events, credit union, and more, as well as discounts to various types of services (legal, financial, etc.) and cultural and leisure activities throughout metro-Boston.
EOE Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.
