Postdoctoral Associate

University of Colorado Boulder • Boulder, CO

37d • $61,000 - $63,120

About The Position

A postdoctoral position is available on an NIH/NIDA-funded project to examine mechanisms and behavioral effects of genes identified through human genome-wide association studies of smoking behaviors. We have developed mouse models to knock-down expression of targeted genes for nicotine behavioral studies and RNA sequencing analysis. This position is ideal for highly motivated individuals with an interest in working with a multidisciplinary team of investigators. The successful candidate will work closely with Dr. Marissa Ehringer, with opportunities to interact with other faculty at CU Boulder including Dr. Jerry Stitzel and Dr. Charles Hoeffer. There will also be guided mentoring to develop research projects related to ongoing studies using rodent models of substance use behaviors in collaborations with investigators studying these disorders in humans. CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. The Institute for Behavioral Genetics (IBG) is an organized research unit of the University of Colorado Boulder Graduate School dedicated to conducting and facilitating research on the genetic and environmental bases of individual differences in behavior. There is a particular interest in the genetics of substance use, psychiatric, behavioral and neurological disorders. IBG researchers make use of multiple animal models related to these behaviors.

Requirements

• Qualifications include a Ph.D. or equivalent degree in Biology, Physiology, or another relevant field (genetics, bioinformatics, or statistics) and a strong background in behavioral genetics and statistics; less than two years of postdoctoral experience.
• The work schedule is required to be flexible to accommodate experimental needs, including availability of some weekend days.
• The candidate will have extensive experience with mouse behavioral studies of substance use, advanced methodological and statistical skills, proficiency with the R statistical computing language, peer-reviewed publication experience, and an ability to work independently in addition to succeeding in a collaborative team environment.

Nice To Haves

• Preference will be given to qualified applicants with skills in RNA sequencing analysis and statistical programming, along with experience in harvesting and dissecting mouse brain.

Responsibilities

• Collaborating with Dr. Marissa A. Ehringer on scientific projects examining genes identified through human GWAS using rodent models.
• Taking the lead on scientific projects and seeing them through to publication as the first author.
• Oversight of mouse colony for breeding, genotyping, and behavioral testing of substance related behaviors.
• Writing and running scripts for analysis of RNA sequencing data.
• Supervision of graduate and undergraduate trainees.
• Assist with EH&S compliance for the laboratory.
• Be responsible for lab supply ordering and inventory.
• Assistance with grant development, and encouragement to submit your own grants as PI.

Benefits

• At the University of Colorado Boulder, we are committed to supporting the holistic health and well-being of our employees.
• Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance for you and your dependents; and an ECO Pass for local transit.
• As one of Boulder County's largest employers, CU Boulder offers an inspiring academic community and access to world-class outdoor recreation.
• Explore additional perks and programs through the CU Advantage program.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Educational Services
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees