Senior / Principal Neuromorphic Systems Architect

About the role

Flagship Pioneering, Inc. is actively seeking a highly skilled Neuromorphic Systems Architect to join their forward-thinking team. This role is ideal for individuals with a strong technical background who are passionate about bridging neuroscience and advanced computing architectures. The successful candidate will be responsible for designing and developing hardware systems inspired by biological neural processes, leveraging principles from dynamical systems theory. The position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to pioneering research and development efforts that aim to revolutionize computing technology. Based in Cambridge, MA, this on-site role requires a candidate capable of working collaboratively across multidisciplinary teams to translate theoretical insights into practical hardware solutions. The role is suitable for candidates with varying levels of experience, with seniority determined by their background and expertise.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Develop innovative hardware architectures inspired by brain functions, utilizing principles from nonlinear dynamical systems to emulate neural processes.
• Design, create, and test prototypes of neuromorphic systems that incorporate a variety of technologies, including analog, mixed-signal, and emerging device architectures.
• Establish and refine system-level architecture frameworks, focusing on memory organization, communication pathways, and energy-efficient computing techniques suitable for neuromorphic applications.
• Collaborate closely with interdisciplinary teams, including neuroscience, signal processing, and machine learning, to incorporate biological insights into architectural designs and ensure alignment with organizational goals.
• Conduct comprehensive feasibility assessments, simulations, and initial prototyping projects to validate design concepts and identify potential improvements.
• Analyze and compare trade-offs among different emerging technologies such as CMOS, photonic devices, and memristive components like RRAM and PCM, to determine optimal solutions for neuromorphic hardware.
• Contribute to the organization's intellectual property portfolio by preparing invention disclosures, supporting patent applications, and sharing innovative ideas with the broader research community.
• Influence the long-term vision and strategic direction of neuromorphic computing initiatives within the company, helping to shape future research directions and product development strategies.
• Engage in continuous learning and stay updated on advances in neuroscience, materials science, and hardware design to inform and enhance architectural development efforts.
• Participate in technical reviews, project planning, and documentation to ensure high-quality deliverables and alignment with organizational standards.
• Mentor junior engineers and researchers, fostering a collaborative environment that encourages innovation and knowledge sharing.
• Present findings and technical insights at internal meetings, conferences, and industry forums to promote the organization's leadership in neuromorphic computing.

Requirements

• A PhD or equivalent experience in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, Computational Neuroscience, Computer Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Extensive knowledge of nonlinear dynamical systems and their applications in computational modeling and hardware design.
• Proven experience designing hardware architectures, including ASICs, FPGAs, and emerging technologies such as RRAM and PCM.
• Strong mathematical background in control theory, dynamical systems, or related fields, with the ability to apply these concepts to hardware development.
• Demonstrated ability to translate complex theoretical concepts into practical hardware implementations and prototypes.
• At least 5 years of relevant research or industry experience, with the level of seniority tailored to the candidate's background.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to analyze complex systems to identify innovative solutions.
• Strong communication skills, capable of working effectively across multidisciplinary teams and presenting technical ideas clearly.
• Experience with hardware simulation tools and design environments is preferred.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, innovative environment that values creativity and scientific rigor.
• A proactive attitude toward learning new technologies and staying current with advancements in neuromorphic computing and related fields.

Nice to have

• Prior experience working specifically in neuromorphic computing or hardware designed for spiking neural networks.
• Familiarity with asynchronous or event-driven architectures and their implementation in hardware systems.
• Knowledge of reservoir computing, recurrent dynamical systems, or physical computing substrates.
• Experience working in early-stage research and development environments, contributing to proof-of-concept projects and experimental hardware.
• A history of patents, publications, or significant contributions to the fields of neuromorphic systems, unconventional computing, or related areas.
• Understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with integrating biological principles into hardware systems.

Skills & tools

• Proficiency in hardware design and simulation tools, such as Cadence, SPICE, or equivalent environments.
• Strong analytical skills for modeling, simulation, and system analysis.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities, with a focus on innovative and practical solutions.
• Effective communication skills for collaboration across diverse technical disciplines.
• Ability to document design processes, experimental results, and technical specifications clearly and thoroughly.

Practical notes

The salary range for this position is between $150,000 and $250,000, depending on the candidate's experience, qualifications, and seniority level. Flagship Pioneering offers a comprehensive benefits package, including healthcare coverage, an annual incentive program, retirement plans, and other employee benefits. The role is based on-site in Cambridge, MA, and requires working at the company's physical location. All compensation and benefits are subject to change and are provided in good faith based on the company's estimates at the time of posting. The company values diversity and encourages qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply.