Hi, I'm Jax Skye, PhD
A
Computational Cognitive Neuroscientist
About
Dr. Skye is an INSPIRE Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of Iowa who applies computational modeling and neuroanatomical methods to predict behavior and clinical outcomes from high-dimensional brain data. His work integrates lesion-based approaches, network neuroscience, and machine learning to uncover latent structure in complex cognitive and clinical phenotypes. Across projects, he focuses on building reproducible, generalizable models that translate neurobiological insights into clinically meaningful predictions.
- Languages: Python, MATLAB, R, Bash, HTML/CSS
- Libraries: TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn, statsmodels, SciPy, NumPy, pandas, umap, networkx, KeplerMapper, Matplotlib, Seaborn
- Tools & Technologies: Git, Apptainer, Docker, high-performance computing cluster, LaTeX
- Applications: FreeSurfer, FSL, EEGLAB, MRIcroGL, Surf Ice, Slicer, SPSS, JASP, REDCap, Qualtrics, Prolific, MTurk, Unity, Motive, Pupil Labs, ImageMagick, gimp, Inkscape, Microsoft Office, Prezi
- Operating Systems: Linux (Ubuntu, CentOS), Windows, iOS
Looking for an opportunity to work in a fast-paced environment where I can apply my expertise in neuroscience methods and data analysis to solve real-world problems.
Projects
Developed stroke prediction pipeline
- Tools: Python, scikit-learn, TensorFlow, NumPy, pandas, matplotlib, seaborn, Git, Apptainer, HPC
- Methods: low-dimensional embeddings (UMAP), ridge and kernel ridge regression, clustering, cross-validation, held-out cohort evaluation
- Deliverables: Reproducible modeling pipeline, cross-cohort validation results, peer-reviewed manuscript
Brain networks supporting theory of mind
- Tools: Python, MATLAB, FSL, FreeSurfer, MRIcroGL, Git
- Methods: lesion–symptom mapping, lesion network mapping, structural and functional MRI, neuropsychological assessment
- Deliverables: Network-level lesion maps, statistical models linking damage to behavior, manuscript in preparation
Latent structure and localization of visuospatial impairment
- Tools: R, MATLAB, bash, Surf Ice, MRIcroGL
- Methods: factor analysis, lesion–symptom mapping, lesion network mapping, cross-cohort prediction
- Deliverables: Doctoral dissertation, predictive models, peer-reviewed publications
Neural basis of time orientation
- Tools: MATLAB, R, MRIcroGL, Surf Ice
- Methods: lesion–symptom mapping, network localization, neuropsychological assessment
- Deliverables: Peer-reviewed publication (Annals of Neurology, study featured on cover), conference presentations
Anatomical underpinnings of tumor-related syndrome
- Tools: MATLAB, MRIcroGL, Surf Ice, clinical imaging data
- Methods: lesion localization, group-level neuroanatomical analysis
- Deliverables: Peer-reviewed publication (Brain Communications), graphical abstract
Multisensory signal integration in VR
- Tools: MATLAB, Pupil Labs eye tracking, infrared motion tracking, HTC Vive
- Methods: psychophysics, virtual reality stimulus presentation, multisensory integration modeling
- Deliverables: Experimental datasets, conference posters, undergraduate research project
Selected Publications
Nonlinear low-dimensional embeddings predict stroke outcomes.
Skye, J., Kliemann, D., Boes, A. D., & Traer, J. A. (2026)
Submitted to Human Brain Mapping
Neuroanatomy of cerebellar mutism syndrome: The role of lesion location.
Skye, J., Bruss, J., Toescu, H., Herbet, G., Aquilina, K., Grafft, A., Bardi Losa, G., & Boes, A. D. (2024)
Brain Communications, 6(4)
https://doi.org/10.1093/braincomms/fcae197
Localization of a medial temporal lobe–precuneus network for time orientation.
Skye, J., Bruss, J., Herbet, G., Tranel, D., & Boes, A. D. (2023)
Annals of Neurology, 94(3), 421–433
https://doi.org/10.1002/ana.26681
Jax Skye (2023)
Uncovering the latent structure of visuospatial ability and predicting visuospatial dysfunction from lesion location
Published doctoral dissertation
Dr. Skye's dissertation
Education
Iowa City, Iowa, USA
Training Program: Iowa Neuroscience Specialty Program in Research Education (INSPIRE)
Advisors: James Traer, PhD | Dorit Kliemann, PhD
Iowa City, Iowa, USA
Degree: Doctorate of Philosophy in Neuroscience
Advisors: Daniel Tranel, PhD | Aaron Boes, MD, PhD
GPA: 3.9/4.0
Reno, Nevada, USA
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience
Minor: Philosophy
GPA: 3.9/4.0