Research Officer - Computational Neuroscience and Data Scientist
Location: Parkville

• $95,348 - $102,353 per annum Salary + up to 17% Superannuation and salary packaging


• 12-month, Fixed-Term


• Parkville location

The role

The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health is seeking a highly motivated Research Officer - Computational Neuroscience & Data Scientist to join the Synapse Biology and Cognition Laboratory within the Mental Health Research Priority Area.
This role offers an exciting opportunity to lead the computational and quantitative analysis of in vivo neural imaging datasets, integrating neural dynamics with complex rodent behavioural paradigms to generate mechanistic insights into cognition and neuropsychiatric disorders.

The position will take a leading role in analysing high-dimensional neural and behavioural datasets derived from miniscope calcium imaging and/or fibre photometry, including touchscreen-based cognitive tasks.You will develop and maintain robust analysis pipelines, apply advanced statistical and machine learning methods, and build predictive and generative models linking neural population activity to behaviour. The role sits at the interface of experimental neuroscience, data science, and translational mental health research.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead computational and quantitative analysis across laboratory research projects


• Develop, refine, and maintain scalable analysis pipelines for calcium imaging and/or fibre photometry data


• Perform advanced statistical modelling and machine learning analyses of behavioural and neural datasets


• Integrate neural and behavioural data using GLMs, state-space models, latent variable models, and dimensionality reduction approaches


• Build predictive and mechanistic models of neural population dynamics and behaviour


• Contribute to experimental design to optimise computational tractability and statistical power


• Ensure reproducible, well-documented analysis workflows and data governance


• Contribute to manuscripts, grants, and research reports


• Supervise and mentor students and research assistants


• Collaborate with clinical and translational research partners (e.g. Psychiatry, University of Melbourne)

About you:

You are a quantitative neuroscientist or data scientist who enjoys working with complex biological data and collaborating closely with experimental teams.

Essential Qualifications and Experience:

• PhD (or equivalent) in computational neuroscience, data science, biomedical engineering, computer science, neuroscience, or a related quantitative discipline


• Demonstrated expertise in analysing neural time-series data


• Strong programming skills (Python and/or MATLAB required; R desirable)


• Advanced statistical modelling and machine learning experience


• Track record of peer-reviewed research publications

Desirable:

• Experience analysing miniscope calcium imaging and/or fibre photometry data


• Familiarity with calcium imaging toolkits (e.g. CNMF, Suite2p, CaImAn)


• Experience integrating neural and behavioural datasets


• Knowledge of Bayesian, state-space, or dynamical systems modelling


• Experience with translational or cross-species neuroimaging analyses

How to Apply

Apply with a Cover Letter and Resume outlining your relevant experience and interests. You may also be asked to consent to a criminal record check.

Detailed information and key responsibilities are available from the Position Description. For enquiries, please contact our People Team on [email protected].

Applications close on Friday 24 April 2026.

The preferred applicant for this job will be asked to consent to a police check.

Why Join Us?
•    Be part of a purpose-driven team making a tangible impact.
•    Work in a collaborative environment that values innovation and inclusivity.
•    Flexible working arrangements available.

Working at the Florey:

With a 50-year history, the Florey is the largest brain research centre in the Southern Hemisphere, with teams of researchers dedicated to building knowledge on a range of neurological and psychiatric conditions. Learn more about our Research Impact.

Our reputation for innovative research and our position as the leading brain research institute in the Southern Hemisphere attracts the best and brightest. Connected by our shared mission to improve lives through brain and mental health research, The Florey provides a dynamic and inspiring workplace where you can develop your career. We have a deep commitment to diversity and creating an inclusive workplace culture where our people can excel and thrive and support our exceptional people to make a positive impact on the local and global research community.

Learn more about working at the Florey here.

For enquiries, please contact our People and Culture Team on [email protected].