Postdoctoral Associate

Duke Careers • Durham, NC

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Neurobiology at Duke University School of Medicine is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Associate to join a research team investigating the neural mechanisms of motor learning and long-term motor memory. This role involves working at the intersection of systems neuroscience, neurophysiology, imaging, and computational analysis to understand how motor cortical circuits support learning and memory. The position offers an opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research using advanced experimental and analytical approaches, including two-photon imaging, optogenetics, in vivo electrophysiology, and behavioral neuroscience. The successful candidate will lead innovative projects, collaborate with interdisciplinary researchers, and advance the understanding of brain function.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Biomedical Engineering, Physiology, Biology, or a related field.
• Experience conducting independent research in neuroscience or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated experience with experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative research environment.
• Ability to work with laboratory animals in compliance with institutional and federal regulations.
• Completion of required animal research and laboratory safety training.
• Ability to manage multiple research projects and meet established milestones.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with mouse behavioral assays and motor learning paradigms.
• Experience with two-photon microscopy, optogenetics, or in vivo imaging techniques.
• Experience with electrophysiological recording methods, including patch-clamp techniques.
• Programming and data analysis experience using MATLAB, Python, or similar platforms.
• Record of peer-reviewed scientific publications.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement behavioral experiments to investigate the neural mechanisms underlying motor learning and motor memory in mice.
• Establish and optimize all-optical two-photon neurophysiology and optogenetic approaches to examine motor cortical connectivity supporting long-term memory formation.
• Perform in vivo patch-clamp recordings with cell-type specific access to characterize the cellular and circuit mechanisms of learning and memory.
• Develop and apply advanced computational and statistical analysis methods to quantify neural signaling dynamics associated with motor learning.
• Collaborate with faculty, trainees, and research staff to advance the laboratory's scientific mission and contribute to publications, presentations, and grant-funded research.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree