Assistant Professor

The Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) located in Cambridge, MA, invites applications for a faculty position at the level of tenure-track Assistant Professor beginning July 1, 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter. We seek candidates whose research uses experimental methods in non-human animal subjects to understand how mechanisms of the brain give rise to the mind. These methods could include ethology, neurophysiology, optogenetics, and connectomics. We are especially interested in researchers whose work spans multiple levels of analysis and includes the use of modern computational tools.

Successful applicants are expected to develop and lead an independent, internationally recognized research program, and to teach courses in brain science and mentor graduate and undergraduate students. Faculty also engage in the intellectual life of the department through seminars, colloquia, symposia, and similar events, and shape the work of the department through committee service. We strongly encourage candidates from underrepresented backgrounds to apply. A PhD in neuroscience, biology, physics, electrical engineering, computer science, or another relevant field is required by the start of employment.

Located on the main MIT campus in Cambridge, MA, BCS offers supportive mentorship to new faculty, an exceptional environment for scientific inquiry, and a strong commitment to an inclusive, welcoming culture. MIT offers a generous range of benefits and resources to promote the health and well-being of MIT faculty members and their families in support of work-life balance, housing, and childcare.

Application materials must be submitted online at and include a cover letter, current Curriculum Vitae, statement of research, a teaching and mentoring plan, a broader impact statement, and up to five representative reprints. The broader impact statement can cover topics including but not limited to service, contributions to the university community, or other means of supporting the educational environment. BCS values rigorous and replicable science. Applicants are encouraged to describe how these values are reflected in their work to date and their future research plans including, but not limited to rigor in reporting, data sharing, and biological variables. Please arrange to have three letters of recommendation submitted online. To receive full consideration, completed applications must be submitted by midnight (EST) on December 1, 2025.

The pay range for a 9-month academic appointment at the Assistant Professor rank: $140,000 – $156,000. MIT provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of what the Institute reasonably expects to pay for a position at the time of posting. The pay offered to a selected candidate during hiring will be based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate’s work experience and education/training, internal peer equity, and applicable legal requirements. This pay range represents base pay only and does not include any other benefits or compensation.

MIT is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and strongly encourage applications from individuals from all identities and backgrounds. All qualified applicants will receive equitable consideration for employment based on their experience and qualifications and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, or national or ethnic origin. View MIT Policy on Non Discrimination and EEOC’s Know Your Rights .

Employment is contingent upon the completion of a satisfactory background check, including possible verification of any findings of misconduct (or pending investigations) from prior employers.