Postdoctoral Research Associate in Neuroscience

About the role

The Postdoctoral Research Associate will conduct cutting‑edge research on basal ganglia and corticostriatal circuit mechanisms underlying substance use disorders and neurodegenerative disease using rodent models. The position is grant‑funded and may require travel, flexible hours, and weekend work.

Key responsibilities

• Design and execute experiments involving oral and intravenous alcohol/drug self‑administration in operant chambers.
• Perform stereotaxic surgeries for viral delivery, cannula, optical fiber, or electrode implantation.
• Conduct slice electrophysiology recordings and fiber photometry to monitor neural activity.
• Analyze electrophysiology, photometry, and confocal imaging data using appropriate software.
• Prepare manuscripts, presentations, and technical progress reports for sponsors.

Required profile

• PhD in neuroscience or a related field.
• 1‑3 years of post‑doctoral research experience.
• Strong publication record with first‑author papers.
• Ability to work independently and mentor junior researchers.

Required skills

• Rodent behavioral assays (operant self‑administration, conditioned place preference, T‑maze, Barnes maze).
• Slice electrophysiology (whole‑cell patch clamp).
• Fiber photometry and in‑vivo optogenetic/chemogenetic manipulation.
• Stereotaxic surgery and viral vector delivery.
• Confocal microscopy and image analysis with Imaris.
• Statistical analysis and data visualization.

What we offer

• Competitive monthly salary of $4,166.67.
• Medical, dental, vision, life, and AD&D insurance.
• Paid holidays, sick leave, and vacation time.
• Retirement plan through the Teacher Retirement System of Texas.
• Professional development resources, including LinkedIn Learning and conference support.
• Access to university facilities, recreation programs, and cultural events.