Software Engineer

About Us

Cortical Labs Pty Ltd is a pioneering company at the forefront of innovation, uniting experts in machine learning, artificial intelligence, engineering, neuroscience, and stem cell culture. Our mission is to develop synthetic biological intelligence chips, venturing into uncharted territories of technology and biology.

To realise this vision, we operate within a multidisciplinary framework, creating cutting-edge software (such as real-time closed-loop systems), advanced hardware (including multielectrode arrays and perfusion loop bioreactors), and innovative synthetic biology protocols.

Our focus goes beyond merely enhancing computers or improving data centres; we’re driven by curiosity about the possibilities. What if we could cultivate a mind that thrives in the limitless realm of digital computing? We’re excited to explore the implications this has for digital environments, robotics, science, and personal care. We ponder the journey of a mind born from the physical world yet fluent in the digital realm, and we’re eager to discover where it will lead us and what it can teach us.

To date, we have successfully developed a working prototype that demonstrates real-time learning in neural systems. For a deeper dive into our research, check out our recent paper at Neuron and explore a graphical representation of our work at SpikeStream.

For more insights into what we do, explore the following links:

• Forbes Article
• Twitter Overview
• Introduction to Synthetic Biological Intelligence (SBI) and Cortical Labs

Who We're Seeking

We are excited to invite a highly skilled Software Engineer to join our dynamic and passionate team at Cortical Labs! In this pivotal role, you will play an integral part in the development of our groundbreaking biological computing platform, which is poised to redefine the boundaries of technology and neuroscience.

As a Software Engineer at Cortical Labs, you will have the extraordinary opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects that push the envelope of innovation. You will collaborate with a diverse group of forward-thinking professionals who are dedicated to transforming ideas into reality. Together, we will explore uncharted territories and make significant contributions to the future of biological computing.

Join us and be part of a vibrant, creative environment where your expertise will be valued, and your contributions will have a lasting impact!

You Have:

Technical Skills

• Proficient Programmer: Demonstrated expertise in Python and C programming, with a strong foundation in software development principles.
• Systems Expertise: A deep understanding of computer architecture, memory management, concurrency, and synchronisation, enabling you to optimise code for performance and efficiency.
• High-Performance Computing: Experience working with low-latency and high-performance systems, ensuring that applications meet demanding performance requirements.
• Debugging and Optimisation: Proficiency in using debugging tools, performance profiling techniques, and optimisation strategies to identify and resolve issues, as well as enhance code efficiency.
• Code Quality: Ability to write simple, maintainable, well-documented code that adheres to best practices and is easy to understand and modify.
• Problem-Solving: Excellent problem-solving skills with a creative and innovative approach to tackling complex technical challenges.

Soft Skills

• Effective Communication: Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, to effectively collaborate with team members and stakeholders.
• Teamwork: Ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment, sharing knowledge and ideas to achieve common goals.
• Adaptability: Flexibility to adapt to new technologies and challenges, demonstrating a willingness to learn and grow.

Key Responsibilities

• Craft and Sustain High-Quality Software: Develop and maintain robust, high-performance software solutions using Python and C, ensuring they meet the evolving needs of our innovative projects.
• Collaborative Design and Optimisation: Engage closely with both hardware and software engineers to design, implement, and optimise software that seamlessly interacts with hardware at a low level, driving efficiency and functionality.
• Diagnose and Resolve Complex Issues: Take on the challenge of troubleshooting and debugging intricate software and hardware integration problems, applying analytical skills to identify root causes and implement effective solutions.
• Elevate Code Quality through Reviews: Conduct thorough code reviews, providing constructive feedback to team members to enhance code quality.
• Implement Automated Testing: Write comprehensive automated tests to ensure the reliability and performance of our software, promoting a culture of quality and continuous improvement.
• Maintain Code Consistency and Style: Write and comment code in alignment with the existing coding style and standards, ensuring a cohesive and understandable codebase for current and future team members.

What Success Looks Like

• In the first month: You will embark on an exciting journey of integration into our vibrant team. During this time, you'll become well-acquainted with our existing codebase, gaining a solid understanding of our innovative projects and practices. You will also have the opportunity to complete a small project, showcasing your skills and creativity while laying the foundation for your future contributions.
• In the following months: Your role will evolve as you dive deeper into the development of our cutting-edge biological computing platform. You will play a pivotal role in implementing and rigorously testing new features, making significant contributions that drive our mission forward. Additionally, you will actively engage in code reviews, sharing your insights and expertise while also taking on the rewarding responsibility of mentoring junior team members and helping to foster a collaborative and growth-oriented environment.

The Team

You will report to the CTO and work closely with a team that has a deep understanding of biological computing. You will also work closely with other talented engineers and scientists.

Your whole self is welcome here! We value open sharing of information, and we treat each other with respect.

Preferred Qualifications

• Open-Source Contributions: A track record of contributing to open-source projects or a strong personal portfolio showcasing relevant work, demonstrating your commitment to the software development community.
• Linux Mastery: In-depth knowledge of Linux operating systems, particularly in low-level programming and kernel module development, enabling you to work effectively with system-level components.
• Real-Time Systems: Familiarity with real-time operating systems, providing you with the skills to develop applications that meet strict timing requirements.
• Hardware-Software Integration: Experience in hardware-software integration, allowing you to work seamlessly with hardware engineers and understand the interplay between hardware and software components.
• Networking Protocols: A solid understanding of networking protocols such as TCP/IP, UDP, HTTP, and WebSockets, enabling you to develop applications that effectively communicate and interact with other systems.
• Web Development Fundamentals: Familiarity with web development technologies such as JavaScript, HTML, and CSS, broadening your skill set and enabling you to contribute to full-stack projects.

Benefits

At Cortical Labs, we offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your professional and personal well-being. Here's what you can expect:

• Competitive Compensation: Enjoy a competitive salary that rewards your skills and contributions.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: We offer a generous benefits package that includes health insurance, retirement plans, and other perks.
• Professional Development: Invest in your career growth with opportunities for training, mentorship, and professional development programs.
• Advancement Opportunities: Cortical Labs is a rapidly growing company with ample opportunities for career advancement.

Diversity and Inclusion

We believe that diversity is essential to our success. We are committed to creating an inclusive work environment where everyone feels valued and respected. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, national origin, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, marital, veteran, or disability status.

By joining Cortical Labs, you will have the opportunity to be part of a groundbreaking project that has the potential to revolutionise the field of computing.