Postdoctoral Fellow - Population Neuroscience Group
Context
The Barcelonaβeta Brain Research Center (BBRC) is a research center dedicated to the prevention of
Alzheimer disease and the study of cognitive functions affected in healthy and pathological aging. It
was created in 2012 by the Pasqual Maragall Foundation, with the support of the Pompeu Fabra
University.
The mission of the BBRC is to provide innovative solutions to decipher and prevent biological changes
and cognitive dysfunction associated with neurodegenerative diseases. Due to the aging of the world
population, these diseases constitute a global challenge, since for example, dementia can reach epidemic
levels in 2050, with a forecast of more than 150 million people affected, if is not found a way to prevent
its appearance and development.
The BBRC received the HR Excellence in Research award (HRS4R) granted by the European Commission; a
recognition that shows its adherence to the principles of the European Charter for Researchers and the
Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Research Staff. The center offers a stimulating and favorable
working environment in accordance with the Charter and Code, which describe the rights and
responsibilities of researchers and their employers, and contributes to the creation of a transparent,
attractive and open ecosystem at international level.
Pasqual Maragall Foundation, Pompeu Fabra University and “la Caixa” Foundation are permanent
members of the BBRC Board. The center is affiliated and located in the Ciutadella Campus of the Pompeu
Fabra University of Barcelona, in a building inaugurated in 2016. The BBRC headquarters has excellent
technical facilities, including a 3T MR scanner dedicated to research, and spaces for conducting Clinical
Trials and EEG. State-of-the-art scientific facilities, effective management and continuous high-standard
peer-review evaluation are the BBRC core proceedings to ensure achieving world-class research results.
BBRC is also part of the Barcelona Biomedical Research Park (PRBB), a large research facility that hosts
other seven different research institutions related to biomedical research, including the Center for
Genomic Regulation (CRG), the Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), the Department of
Experimental and Health Sciences of the Pompeu Fabra University (CEXS-UPF), the Institute of
Evolutionary Biology (IBE CSIC-UPF), the Barcelona Institute of Global Health (ISGlobal) and the Barcelona
site of the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), among others, in a multidisciplinary,
collaborative and stimulating international environment in close contact with a clinical setting, thus
conducive to translational research.
About the job
BBRC is looking for a Postdoctoral Fellow. This is a full-time position, and the selected candidate will
join the Population Neuroscience Group.
This Group, co-directed by Drs. Paus and Pausova, works on genetic and environmental factors shaping
the human brain across the lifespan. Ultimately, we wish to identify key processes necessary for
building resilience to brain disease. We use a combination of approaches applied to large datasets,
including neuroimaging (multi-modal MRI), multi-omics (e.g., genomics and metabolomics), and
geospatial mapping of area-level environment. To facilitate the neurobiological interpretation of MRI-
based metrics, we employ virtual histology (spatial correlation between gene expression and cortical
phenotypes). To validate findings obtained in cohort studies, we use ex vivo (e.g., brain organoids) and
in vivo (e.g., mice) experimental models. Our Group collaborates with colleagues based in two
international consortia: CHARGE and ENIGMA. Our research takes place in both Barcelona, Spain and
Montreal, Canada – with a dedicated team of students and fellows at both locations, and opportunities
for reciprocal visits between the two sites.
For more information see: www.fpmaragall.org and www.barcelonabeta.org
Main Responsibilities
The responsibilities for this position include:
- Develop and implement AI-based models for analyzing high-dimensional biological and imaging
data. - Contribute to ongoing projects, such as:
AI-based modeling of cortical circuit structure and function from single-cell
transcriptomic data.
o AI-based super-resolution of low-field MR images in developing brains.
o AI-based modeling of social and environmental factors using geospatial and satellite
image data. - Integrate multimodal datasets (transcriptomics, imaging, behavioral, and environmental) for
predictive modeling. - Collaborate with neuroscientists, biostatisticians, and clinical researchers within BBRC and
external partners. - Contribute to manuscript preparation, presentations, and dissemination of research outcomes.
- Supervise or mentor junior researchers and students when appropriate.
Qualifications and experience
- PhD in engineering, computer science, bioinformatics, applied mathematics, neuroscience, or a
related field. - Proven experience in machine learning, deep learning, generative AI and data mining.
- Strong programming skills (e.g., Python, R, MATLAB, or similar).
- Experience with data visualization and model interpretability
Personal Skills
- Self-initiative. Capacity to work independently and communicate efficiently.
- Strong problem-solving mindset.
- Strong writing skills.
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively with a multidisciplinary team.
- Good Organization and time management skills
- Ability to think independently and work collaboratively (empathic and focused team- worker).
- Goal-oriented and work ethic driven.
- Strong interest in biological and neuroscientific applications of AI.
- Interest in joining a non-profit organization with a mission of high social impact.
We offer
- Starting date: Immediately.
- Contract: Temporary position for 1 year, with the possibility of renewal for up to 3 years.
- Full-time position, 38 hours/week.
- Salary will depend on experience and will be in accordance with BBRC’s salary scales.
- The Foundation offers an extended vacation period and the possibility of benefit from flexible
working hours. - Hybrid work model (on-site + teleworking).
We offer a unique research opportunity in a highly innovative project in a multidisciplinary institution,
promoting a diverse and inclusive environment and welcomes applicants regardless of age, disability,
gender, nationality, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or gender identity.
In the BBRC we also care about developing your professional abilities and career. We evaluate the
potential of our team in order to develop the skills necessary to achieve a high level of professional
performance.
Application process
To apply, please submit a single PDF file containing the following:
1) Cover letter addressed describing research interests and relevant background
2) CV
3) The names of up to three individuals who could provide reference letters. All files or inquiries
should be submitted electronically to: talent@barcelonabeta.org
Subject: Population Neuroscience Data Scientist
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