Post Doc - Open Rank

University of Massachusetts Medical School•Worcester, MA

About The Position

A postdoctoral associate position is available in the Zhang Lab for a highly motivated scientist interested in understanding how external experience and internal physiology reshape sensory pathways and behavior. The laboratory uses the mammalian taste system as a model to investigate these interactions. Examples include how internal states such as hunger influence taste perception and feeding behavior, how long-term dietary experience reshapes taste sensation, physiology, and behavior, and how sensory stimulation triggers downstream signaling pathways that coordinate physiological responses. To uncover the neural and molecular mechanisms underlying these interactions, the lab uses multidisciplinary approaches, including single-cell RNA sequencing, in vivo calcium imaging and photometry, CRISPR-based genetic engineering, optogenetics, and animal behavioral analysis. The postdoctoral associate can contribute to exciting ongoing research projects and has substantial intellectual freedom to develop new research directions within the broad scope of the research program.

Requirements

Ph.D. in biological sciences or nearing completion of a doctoral degree.
Strong record of research productivity.
Ability to work collaboratively.
Rigorous scientific reasoning in addressing fundamental biological questions.

Nice To Haves

Background in neuroscience.
Experience with animal surgery, optogenetics, in vivo calcium imaging, or fiber photometry.

Responsibilities

Investigate neural and molecular mechanisms through which external experience and internal physiology reshape sensory pathways and behavior.
Conduct research using the mammalian taste system as a model.
Contribute to ongoing research projects and develop new research directions within the scope of the laboratory’s research program.

Stand Out From the Crowd

Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.

Upload and Match Resume