Postdoctoral Research Associate, Translational Neuroscience (Phoenix)

The Warden Lab in the Department of Translational Neuroscience seeks candidates for a postdoctoral position. The broad goal of our research program is to understand the neural circuits that underlie cognitive and emotional behavioral decision-making. Many of our research projects are focused on neuromodulatory circuits such as the serotonergic dorsal raphe nucleus and the dopaminergic ventral tegmental area and their inputs and outputs. We are interested in understanding how these circuits support adaptive behavioral decision making, and how internal state and environmental structure shape their functional operation. To address these questions, we use an observational and causal approach, combining monitoring and decoding of neural activity with control of defined circuit elements. The lab employs a multidisciplinary approach combining imaging, optogenetics, anatomy, high-density freely moving neurophysiology, behavior, and computation.

Ideal candidates will have a PhD in Neuroscience, Psychology, or related fields, and an interest in the neural mechanisms underlying motivated behavioral decision-making. A quantitative background, experience in imaging or electrophysiology, and proficiency in MATLAB/Python/R are desirable but not required.

The position is part of a well-funded research program and will provide the opportunity to produce high-impact publications and establish an independent record of grant funding. The candidate will be mentored in career development. We embrace diversity and seek candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty, and staff of all identities and backgrounds. We strongly encourage individuals from underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply.

The University of Arizona College of Medicine - Phoenix anchors the 28-acre Phoenix Bioscience Core in the heart of the Valley of the Sun. The College inspires and trains individuals to become exemplary physicians, scientists and leaders who are life-long learners and inquisitive scholars. The Phoenix Biomedical Campus embodies the University's priorities of engagement, partnership, innovation, and synergy in its world-class academic and research initiatives, with clinical facilities throughout Greater Phoenix.

Outstanding UA benefits include health, dental, vision, and life insurance; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; UA/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; access to UA recreation and cultural activities; and more!

The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please click here: http://talent.arizona.edu/.

• Conduct advanced, multi-disciplinary research in neuroscience including animal behavior and in vivo physiology and optogenetics under the direction of the principal investigator
• Develop, design, and conduct complex research projects.
• Formulate research methods and develop research criteria and performs scientific data collections, reductions, and analyses involving routine procedures characterized by use of independent judgment.
• Foster collaborations within the Department and with other units across the University.
• Performs delicate small animal surgical implantations and utilize unique rodent models.
• Develop and maintain detailed records of experiments, analyzing and writing down findings.
• Assist with funding applications, including participating in grant writing, generating preliminary data, submitting grant applications, and preparing progress reports.
• Derive, analyze, and format data for publications, presentations, and grant proposals.
• Present research findings to the lab at department meetings, and at national and international symposiums.
• Prepare manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals.
• Develop and implement protocols as dictated by experimental results.
• May assist with supervision of laboratory staff.
• Oversee maintenance of hazardous/chemical waste records and disposal as needed.
• Additional duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Excellent laboratory and analytical skills and commitment to scientific excellence and innovation
• Knowledge of coordinating experiments, and completing statistics analysis and interpretation.
• Ability to conduct research independently and within a team.
• Ability to communicate professionally in a clear, concise manner orally and in writing.
• Knowledge of grant writing and manuscript preparation.
• Ability to participate at scientific conferences and present findings.

• PhD in Neuroscience, Psychology, or related field of study required.
  
  

College of Medicine-Phoenix, Office of Human Resources

HR-PHX@arizona.edu

Application: The online application should be completed in its entirety. Blank or missed information may be considered an incomplete submission.

Letter of Interest: Should clearly indicate how your skills and professional employment experience meet the Minimum and the Preferred qualifications (if applicable).