About Us
At Cortical Labs, we have integrated machine learning, engineering, and neuroscience to develop Synthetic Biological Intelligence (SBI).
Our work focuses on using biological neurons as a functional component of computing systems to create technology that is adaptive and resource-efficient.
To achieve this, we operate within a multidisciplinary framework.
Our team develops the software for real-time closed-loop systems and the hardware necessary to support the neural cultures.
We are focused on the practical application of biological intelligence in digital environments, robotics, and scientific research.
We are driven by curiosity regarding how a system born from the physical world interacts with digital platforms.
We seek resourceful individuals who value intellectual honesty and the challenge of discovery to help us explore the implications of this technology.
If you are interested in the intersection of biology and computing, we invite you to join our team.
To date, we have successfully developed and launched our CL1 product that demonstrates real-time learning in neural systems and have just launched our cloud service for global access to these systems.
For a deeper dive into our research, check out our recent paper at Neuron, a video explainer from Reuters and explore our work on GitHub.
For more insights into what we do, explore the following links:
Forbes Article
Twitter Overview
Gizmodo Article
Introduction to Synthetic Biological Intelligence (SBI) and Cortical Labs
Human Neurons playing Doom on Cortical Cloud
Who We're Seeking
We are considering candidates from Staff Scientist through to Principal Scientist level.
The final title, scope and level of responsibility will be determined through the interview process based on your experience, scientific leadership and ability to take ownership of Cortical Labs' research direction.
You are an accomplished neuroscientist who can move comfortably between scientific detail, experimental delivery and long-term strategy.
You are comfortable challenging assumptions without derailing progress, bringing structure to highly exploratory work and collaborating with specialists from different technical disciplines.
You Have:
A PhD or equivalent research experience in neuroscience, computational biology, systems neuroscience or a closely related field
Deep expertise in areas such as neural network dynamics, learning, cognition or biological intelligence
Strong knowledge of experimental design, scientific methodology and hypothesis-driven research
Experience interpreting complex, multidimensional biological datasets
Demonstrated capability applying advanced statistical and analytical methods
Experience developing novel research strategies and identifying promising scientific directions




The ability to communicate complex scientific ideas clearly to multidisciplinary audiences
Experience working effectively across biology, hardware and software teams
Strong scientific leadership capability, including guiding research activity and influencing scientific direction
Creative problem-solving skills
Structured curiosity and the ability to explore novel ideas methodically
Experience delivering rigorous scientific work within commercial, resource or time constraints
Preferred Experience
The strongest candidates may also bring experience in one or more of the following areas:
In vitro neural systems and neural cell culture
Stem cell biology and neural differentiation
Synthetic biology
Electrophysiology
Multielectrode array systems
Computational neuroscience or computational biology
Neural network dynamics, plasticity, learning or cognition
Advanced statistical analysis of biological datasets
Preparing peer-reviewed scientific papers and publications
Grant writing and research funding applications
Developing patentable ideas or intellectual property
Pharmaceuticals, biotechnology or commercial scientific research
Startup or small-team environments
Managing and developing scientists
Shaping scientific team culture
Cell culture quality management
Experimental planning and cell culture plating
Candidates coming from academia should be able to demonstrate experience translating research into practical, commercial or time-sensitive outcomes.
Key Responsibilities
Lead or materially contribute to significant areas of Cortical Labs' research
Develop novel techniques and strategies to understand and leverage biological intelligence from in vitro cultures
Design rigorous research programmes from hypothesis through to measurable outcomes
Interpret complex, multidimensional data generated through Cortical Labs' research processesExtend existing projects through new analysis, hypotheses and experimental approaches
Identify emerging, underexplored or high-potential scientific directions
Help establish and prioritise Cortical Labs' broader scientific roadmap
Coordinate research activities across wetware, hardware and software teams
Balance exploratory research with the need to deliver timely, meaningful progress
Prepare scientific papers, publications and technical communications
Support grant writing and funding applications
Represent Cortical Labs through conferences, research partnerships and broader scientific engagement




Contribute to the development of patentable ideas and intellectual property
Support the growth and development of Cortical Labs' scientific capability
Depending on seniority and capability, the position may also involve:
Managing and mentoring scientists
Building a team beneath the role
Managing cell culture quality and reliability
Overseeing cell culture plating and experimental planning
Taking broader ownership of research programmes and scientific strategy
What Success Looks Like
Within the first 90 days
, you will have developed a strong understanding of Cortical Labs' existing research, technology and scientific priorities.
You will have built effective relationships across the wetware, hardware and software teams, reviewed current datasets and research programmes, and identified opportunities to extend existing work through new analysis, hypotheses or experimental approaches.
You will also have begun contributing to scientific communications, publications and the coordination of new research activities.
Within the first year
, you will have made a clear scientific impact across Cortical Labs' priority research programmes.
This may include drafting, submitting or publishing meaningful scientific papers, contributing to successful grant applications or new funding opportunities, identifying patentable ideas or intellectual property directions, and improving the pace and coordination of multidisciplinary research.
Success will also be reflected in stronger scientific capability across the team, clearer long-term research priorities and, where relevant, the development of a well-functioning scientific team beneath the role.
Benefits
At Cortical Labs, we offer a comprehensive advantages package designed to support your professional and personal well-being.
Here's what you can expect:
Opportunity to define and scale a core platform at the frontier of neuroscience and computing.
Collaborative, creative, and mission-driven culture.
Competitive compensation and benefits.
Flexible work arrangements and supportive team environment.
Office located in the heart of Melbourne's innovation district.
Diversity and Inclusion
We believe in building a diverse and inclusive team and we encourage applications from women, non-binary individuals, and underrepresented groups in tech.
We value a wide range of experiences and career paths, and we know that not everyone will meet every criterion listed.
If this role aligns with your experience and interests, we encourage you to apply.
At Cortical Labs, we believe the next revolution in computing won't come from silicon alone.
If you're excited about the idea of running lab operations for a dynamic team (or similar) working with real living neurons, advanced computing infrastructure, and a world-class team - we encourage you to apply.
#J-*****-Ljbffr

📌 Staff/Senior Staff/Principal Scientist (Neuroscience) (Melbourne)
🏢 black.ai
📍 Melbourne