Decoding Biological Dynamics
Using tools from dynamical systems, information theory, and machine learning to uncover biological dynamics across timescales, from neural activity to gene regulation and physiology. See Tosif Ahamed's work.
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The Computation & Theory (C&T) group at Janelia brings together expertise in areas such as computational biology, biophysics, machine vision and learning, and theoretical neuroscience. We aim to answer fundamental questions in biology by applying theoretical tools, maximizing the insights extracted from biological data, and closing the loop between theory and experiment.
About the program
Janelia Theory Fellows think independently and contribute to Janelia's collaborative, interdisciplinary research environment. They are mentored by one or more C&T group leaders who support the development and execution of their research vision.
Beyond the mentor lab, Theory Fellows collaborate broadly with other researchers in C&T. They have the opportunity to initiate collaborations with experimental groups, with the goal of testing their ideas by guiding the design and execution of new experiments, and to gain expertise in a variety of areas.
Appointments are for three years and include:
- Access to top-tier computational infrastructure
- A generous computer and travel budget
- Competitive salary and benefits
What you do
Theory Fellows are expected to:
- Pursue high-impact, engaging research
- Apply theoretical tools to real biological systems
- Collaborate across disciplines, including with experimentalists
- Guide and interpret experiments based on theoretical insights
- Grow through mentorship and cross-disciplinary exchange
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The Body's Role in Shaping the Mind
Exploring how internal physiological needs shape behavior and brain function, this research reframes the nervous system as a regulator of bodily balance, not just a controller of action. Using theoretical frameworks, it investigates how information flows between brain and body to support survival. See Michele Nardin's work.
Sharper Images through Smarter Optics
By applying phase diversity, researchers can computationally correct optical distortions in microscopy images, restoring sharp details and extending this technique across a range of imaging systems. See Magdalena Schneider's work.
Brains Built for the Real World
Exploring how animals solve complex, real-world problems efficiently by leveraging structure in their environment by using normative theory and machine learning to model natural behavior and neural computation under biological constraints. See Ling-Qi Zhang's work.
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Who you are
We're looking for early-career scientists who:
- Hold a PhD in a relevant scientific discipline (not required at time of application)
- Are excited to apply computation and theory to biology
- Thrive in interdisciplinary, collaborative environments
Application timeline
- Applications are due November 3, 2025 3:00pm EST
- Finalists must interview in-person on December 10-11, 2025 to be considered
Meet our Theory Fellows
Get to know our Theory Fellows and their work.
Theory Fellow
Tosif Ahamed
Theory Fellow
Sahil Loomba
Theory Fellow
Michele Nardin
Theory Fellow
Alice Wang
Theory Fellow
Ling-Qi Zhang
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“Janelia is just a perfect place for combining my interests and being at this intersection between computation, theory, and experiments. It's great to do science at the interface here.”
Magdalena Schneider
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Join the C&T Team
Learn more about participating labs
Discover potential collaborations
Join the Theory Fellow Program
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Program Administration
Senior Director, Janelia Scientific Programs and Training
Zarixia Zavala-Ruiz
Senior Scientific Program Manager
Dominika Braverman