Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Software Curator, Neural Computation Unit
As a core project of Japan’s flagship neuroscience program, Brain/MINDS 2.0 (https://brainminds.jp/en/), OIST Neural Computation Unit is developing an AI-powered neuroscience data analysis and modeling platform Neuro-Workflow (https://github.com/oist/neuro-workflow), by which users can intuitively design and execute a workflow by connecting varieties of computing modules (nodes) through graphic user interface and chat with AI agents, and share the nodes and workflows they developed for collaborations and reproducible research.
We call for a software curator to maintain the quality and interoperability of such nodes and workflows.
The Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University was established in 2011 to contribute to the development of science and technology worldwide and to serve as a hub of innovation in Okinawa. OIST is a dynamic new graduate university of science and technology in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan which offers a 5-year PhD program and brings together outstanding researchers from across the country and across disciplines to conduct cutting-edge scientific research.
The university is located on 85 hectares of protected forestland overlooking a beautiful shoreline and coral reefs. The campus is striking architecturally, and the facilities are outstanding. To facilitate multidisciplinary research, there are no academic departments. Outstanding resources and equipment are provided and managed to encourage easy access and collaboration.
English is the official language of the University, and the university research community is fully international, with more than 50 countries represented. OIST is rapidly gaining recognition in the worldwide academic community as a model for excellence in education and research, and our unwavering commitment to scientific and technological innovation is dedicated to generating progress that will fuel Okinawa's economic growth.
The software curator will:
- test and tune contributed nodes and workflows
- create new nodes and workflows as needed
- coordinate input/output of nodes to assure interoperability
- maintain documentation of nodes and workflows
- compile instructions to AI agents to automate those works
- communicate with contributors and users for troubleshooting and validating functions
(Required)
- Bachelor's or higher degree in computer science, neuroscience, biology, or related fields.
- Programming skills in Python.
- Communication and technical writing skills in English.
(Preferred)
- Experience in computational neuroscience.
- Familiarity with Git, GitHub, and AI-assisted coding.
- Communication skills in Japanese.
In accordance with the OIST Employee Compensation Regulations
Expected Annual Salary for full-time appointment: 4.0 M - 6.5 M yen
Expected hourly pay for part-time appointment: up to 2,000 yen, depending on experience, skills, and background.
*The salary for this position will be determined in accordance with the OIST Employee Compensation Regulations, taking into account the candidate's experience, skills, and background.
*This position will be classified as either a Staff Scientist or Technician under OIST's personnel classification system, depending on the candidate's qualifications and experience.
Benefits & Resources:
- Relocation, housing and commuting allowances
- Annual paid leave and summer holidays
- Health insurance (Private School Mutual Aid)
- Welfare pension insurance (kousei-nenkin)
- Worker's accident compensation insurance (roudousha-saigai-hoshou-hoken)
- Access to Child Development Center
- Access to Schooling Options
- Language Education
- Resource Center (Daily Life Support in Okinawa)
- Remote Work System
- Disability Support
- LGBTQ+ Inclusion & Support Resources
- Cover letter (English)
- Curriculum vitae (English)
- Names and contact information of 2-3 referees
* Please be sure to indicate where you first saw the job advertisement.
How to Apply
Apply by uploading your submission documents HERE.
*This is a secure file uploading system for handling confidential materials.
- OIST Graduate University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action educator and employer and is committed to increasing the diversity of its faculty, students and staff.
- Information provided by applicants or references will be kept confidential in accordance to the OIST Privacy Policy; documents will not be returned.
- Recruiting Organization: Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology School Corporation
- Prevention of Passive Smoking: No smoking indoors
- Please view our policy for rules on external professional activities: Rules for Concurrent Appointment.
- Further details about the University can be viewed on our website.
Full-time, fixed-term appointment for 2 years, including a 6-month probationary period.
A part-time position will also be considered, with a maximum contract term of 6 months.
The contract may be renewed by taking into consideration the performance, conduct, and behavior of the Employee and OIST’s financial and other circumstances.
* This position will be funded through the AMED Brain/MINDS program.
Full-time appointment: 9:00-17:30 (Discretionary)
Part-time appointment: maximum of 7 hours per day, 5 days per week. Break: 12:00 – 13:00 (if working hours are more than 5 hours for the day)
Holidays
Saturday, Sunday, National holidays, and Year-end and New Year holidays (Dec. 29 – Jan. 3)
Leave*
Annual Paid Holidays, Summer Leave, Sick Leave, and Special Leave
*Leave entitlements and eligibility are determined in accordance with OIST regulations and applicable employment conditions.
Overtime work hours
Full-time appointment: Discretionary Working Hours System
In the discretionary labor system for specialized work, the employee shall be deemed to have worked 7 hours 30 minutes per day.
For part-time appointments, overtime work is generally not required.
Thank you for your application. Please note that only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.