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October 29, 2011

Science, what's it up to?

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Oh, Aasif Mandvi. Well done.

"Pretty soon, you're hooked on that grant money, looking for the next big score... Is that what you want?"

posted October 29, 2011 08:59 AM in Humor | permalink | Comments (0)

October 17, 2011

Be a postdoc at the Santa Fe Institute, 2012 edition

It's that time of year again: SFI is hiring new Omidyar Fellows.

Appointments begin Fall 2012 and run for two to three years. Having done my own postdoc work at SFI as an Omidyar Fellow, I can tell you that it's an exceptionally good place to be. It's not the place for everyone, and that's the point. It's best for folks who do their best work in unstructured environments, have a good nose for asking fundamental questions, and are comfortable working in a highly interdisciplinary environment.

The deadline to apply is November 1. Here's the official ad:

The Omidyar Postdoctoral Fellowship offers:
• unparalleled intellectual freedom
• transdisciplinary collaboration with leading researchers worldwide
• up to three years in residence in Santa Fe, New Mexico
• discretionary research and collaboration funds
• individualized mentorship and preparation for your next leadership role
• an intimate, creative work environment with an expansive sky

The Omidyar Fellowship at the Santa Fe Institute is unique among postdoctoral appointments. The Institute has no formal programs or departments. Research is collaborative and spans the physical, natural, and social sciences. Most research is theoretical and/or computational in nature, although it may include an empirical component. SFI typically has 15 Omidyar Fellows and postdoctoral researchers, 15 resident faculty, 95 external faculty, and 250 visitors per year. Descriptions of the research themes and interests of the faculty and current Fellows can be found at http://www.santafe.edu/research.

Requirements include a Ph.D. in any discipline (or expect to receive one by September 2012), computational and quantitative skills, an exemplary academic record, a proven ability to work independently and collaboratively, a demonstrated interest in multidisciplinary research and evidence of the ability to think outside traditional paradigms. Applications are encouraged from candidates from any country and discipline. Women and minorities are especially encouraged to apply.

More information is here.

posted October 17, 2011 09:03 PM in Complex Systems | permalink | Comments (0)

October 07, 2011

Steve Jobs

This video of Steve Jobs' commencement address at Stanford in 2005 sat on my to-watch list for months. Now seemed like a good time to watch it. Good words, Steve.

posted October 7, 2011 07:26 AM in Things to Read | permalink | Comments (2)