Postdoctoral Fellow – Population Neuroscience Group; Data Scientist​/AI

Organisation/Company Barcelona Beta Brain Research Center Research Field Neurosciences >
Neurology Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Positions Postdoc Positions Country Spain Final date to receive applications 24 Jan 2026 - 03:16 (Europe/Madrid) Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Hours Per Week 38 Offer Starting Date 24 Dec 2025 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure?

No

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. Pausova and Paus, 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.

Main Responsibilities

The responsibilities for this position include:

• Multiomics analytics and predictive modelling
• Bioinformatics and Knowledge Graphs (visualization and reporting)
• AI-based data integration across cohorts (with federated machine learning)
• Contribute to ongoing projects, such as:
  • Integration of macroscopic (magnetic resonance imaging) and microscopic (multi‑cell microscopy) brain phenotypes with single‑cell transcriptomics
  • Predictive modelling of late‑life dementia from mid‑life cortical atrophy associated with lifestyle and genetic risks
• 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 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 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

• 1‑year position, renewable up to 3 years depending on performance and funding availability
• 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

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:

• Cover letter addressed describing research interests and relevant background
• CV
• The names of up to three individuals who could provide reference letters

Email: talent
Subject:
Population Neuroscience Data Scientist

Email talent

Research Field Medical sciences >
Health sciences Education Level PhD or equivalent Languages ENGLISH Level Excellent

Number of offers available 1 Company/Institute Barcelona Beta Brain Research Center Country Spain State/Province Barcelona City Barcelona Postal Code 08005 Street Carrer de Wellington, 30, Sant Martí, 08005