Postdoctoral Research Associate - Neuroscience

Yao Chen's interdisciplinary lab in the Department of Neuroscience at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis seeks a motivated postdoctoral researcher to join our team. We focus on uncovering principles of neuromodulator actions and mechanisms of sleep functions by illuminating the nature and functions of biochemical signaling dynamics. We use advanced techniques such as fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy, optical sensors, light-activated actuators, electrophysiology, molecular biology, quantitative rodent behavior, and computational approaches. We aim to bridge cellular and systems neuroscience by both taking a systems biology approach to study cellular signals and studying cellular signals in the intact system in vivo.

The PI is committed to nurturing a creative, collaborative, and supportive lab culture. Washington University neuroscience is ranked among the top 10 in the world. The School of Medicine is ranked among the top five medical schools in the United States. The applicant will have access to extensive infrastructural and core facility support and professional development training for postdoctoral researchers via the Career Center, Teaching Center, Office of Postdoctoral Affairs, and the Postdoc Society.

Job Description

Primary Duties & Responsibilities:

For more information on our lab and recent publications, visit https://sites.wustl.edu/yaochenlab/.

Lab posting: https://neuroscience.wustl.edu/items/postdoctoral-research-associate-chen-lab/

Information on being a postdoc at Washington University in St. Louis can be found at https://postdoc.wustl.edu/prospective-postdocs-2/.

Trains under the supervision of a faculty mentor including (but not limited to):

• Research and development: Manage and conduct independent projects leading to first-author papers. Engage in experimental design, execution, and data analysis.
• Skill development: Gain expertise in optical imaging, photometry, optogenetics, neurosurgery, and data processing.
• Collaboration and communication: Engage in scientific discourse within and outside the University and contribute to a collaborative lab culture.
• Scientific contribution: Prepare and submit research papers and assist in grant preparation.
• Ethical conduct: Maintain high ethical standards and compliance in research.

Working Conditions: This position works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards. The individual must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals.

Salary Range: Base pay is commensurate with experience.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by the personnel so classified. Management reserves the right to revise or amend duties at any time.

Required Qualifications

Education: Ph.D., M.D. Or Equivalent Terminal Or Doctoral Degree.

Certifications: No specific certification is required for this position.

Work Experience: No specific work experience is required for this position.

Skills: Not Applicable

Driver's License: A driver's license is not required for this position.

More About This Job

WashU seeks highly motivated individuals who are able to perform duties in a manner consistent with our core mission and guiding principles.

Preferred Qualifications

Education: No additional education beyond what is stated in the Required Qualifications section.

Certifications: No additional certification beyond what is stated in the Required Qualifications section.

Work Experience: No additional work experience beyond what is stated in the Required Qualifications section.

Skills: Fostering Collaboration, Problem Solving, Self Motivation, Taking Initiative

Questions

For frequently asked questions about the application process, please refer to our External Applicant FAQ.

Accommodation

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email CandidateQuestions@wustl.edu or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

All qualified individuals must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.

Pre-Employment Screening

All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

Benefits Statement

Washington University in St. Louis is committed to providing a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to our employees. Benefits eligibility is subject to employment status, full-time equivalent (FTE) workload, and weekly standard hours. Please visit our website at https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/ to view a summary of benefits.

EEO/AA Statement

Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity and especially encourages applications by those from underrepresented groups. It is the University's policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Diversity Statement

Washington University is dedicated to building a diverse community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment - fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.