RIKEN Brain Science Institute
Call for Laboratory Heads and/or Unit Leaders to join the Intellectual Brain Function Research Group
The RIKEN Brain Science Institute (BSI) is currently accepting applications for two full-time laboratory head and/or unit leader positions in the Intellectual Brain Function Research Group. This group is part of the "Nurturing the Brain" research area, one of four strategic research areas promoted at BSI: "Understanding the Brain", "Protecting the Brain", "Creating the Brain", and "Nurturing the Brain". At present, the group includes the Laboratories for Symbolic Cognitive Development (Lab. head: Atsushi Iriki), Biolinguistics (Kazuo Okanoya), and Language Development (Reiko Mazuka). Using a variety of animal models and human subjects, these labs have helped to clarify the developmental and evolutionary processes of cognitive capabilities such as concept formation and manipulation as well as vocal communication. To further promote research in this area, new laboratories and/or units will be established in the group that complement the activities of the existing BSI laboratories, but specifically aiming at understanding fundamental brain mechanisms subserving emotional and social interactions among humans.
New laboratory heads will assemble teams of about ten researchers and technicians, while unit leaders will oversee three to five members. Employment contracts are renewed annually. Labs and units will be supported on a five-year cycle with continuation contingent upon the results of a progress review conducted by an international review committee. But the maximum Unit research period shall not exceed ten years. Applications are encouraged from outside Japan, but researchers are expected to work at BSI full-time. In addition to being able to work within an international environment, applicants must demonstrate excellent leadership, interpersonal communication, and team-building skills. More information about BSI is available at <www.brain.riken.jp>. Direct inquiries to <[email protected]>.
Applicants should send 1) a statement of their research interests and project proposal for work at BSI (no more than 2000 words), 2) a curriculum vitae, 3) a list of publications, 4) a statement highlighting main accomplishments, and 5) the names and addresses of three references, to the address below.
Search Committee 25
RIKEN Brain Science Institute
2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan
FAX: +81-48-462-4914
E-mail: [email protected]
Closing date: July 31, 2007 (receipt date)
