Job Description

About the Sarvestani Lab:

The Sarvestani Lab is advancing a predictive science of the brain that views the body as inseparable from neural function. Our research asks: given an animal’s body and environment, can we forecast what its neural systems should look like? We explore how ecological constraints and movement patterns shape visual perception by studying species ranging from tree shrews to rats.

Our projects aim to formalize the link between an animal’s body, its brain, and its behavior. By combining cross-species comparisons, behavioral training, and neural recordings, we seek to understand how movements influence sensory feedback and visual processing—laying the foundation for more effective clinical therapies and biologically inspired AI.

Learn more about our work:

About the Role:

We are seeking a highly motivated and creative Postdoctoral Scientist with expertise in sensory systems neuroscience to join a collaborative, cross-disciplinary team. The successful candidate will investigate how animals detect, perceive, and respond to the visual world, focusing on the integration of movement and sensory processing in ecologically grounded experimental systems.

Research Environment:

The position is jointly supported by the Department of Neurobiology & Behavior at Cornell University and the Howard Hughes Medical Institute. The postdoc will work in a vibrant, interdisciplinary setting and have access to cutting-edge tools and collaborative networks.

What You’ll Do:

Engage in experimental neuroscience projects such as:

• Exploring how the brain learns to gather sensory information through body movements

• Investigating how motor development shapes visual circuits and behavior in tree shrews

• Studying the role of proprioception in neural dynamics of visual perception

• Exploring sensory substitution paradigms

Contribute to the lab’s research using methods such as:

• Behavioral training and motion capture

• Two-photon imaging (head-fixed, with interest in free-moving applications)

• Electrophysiology in both head-fixed and freely moving animals

• High-speed movement quantification in developing and adult animals

• Closed-loop experimental control using sensors and actuators

What We Provide:

• A highly integrative research environment bridging systems neuroscience, behavior, and computational approaches.

• Mentorship focused on scientific and career development.

• Access to workshops, training resources, and seminar series through Cornell and HHMI.

• Support for participation in conferences and cross-disciplinary initiatives.

• Opportunities to shape experimental paradigms and influence lab direction.

What You Bring:

• Ph.D. in systems neuroscience, engineering with neuroscience experience, or a related field.

• Experience with two-photon imaging and/or electrophysiology is required.

• Strong interest in visual perception and movement analysis.

• Background in small animal surgery and behavioral neuroscience is required.

• Fluency in Python and/or MATLAB is required.

• Familiarity with Arduino, signal processing, and real-time control systems

• Strong publication record and scientific communication skills.

• A proactive, self-driven mindset with the resilience to pursue innovative questions.

Physical Requirements

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet).

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job’s principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however.  Unless they begin with the word “may,” the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are “essential functions” of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

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