Post-Doctoral Research Associate

Society for Neuroscience
United States, Nebraska, Omaha
Sep 26, 2025
Post-Doctoral Research Associate Employer University of Nebraska Medical Center, Department of Neurological Sciences Location Omaha, Nebraska Salary Commensurate with Experience Closing date Oct 26, 2025 View more categories View less categories Sector Graduate School or University Job Function Postdoctoral Researcher Position Type Full Time Level Mid Level Job Details Company Job Details The Department of Neurological Sciences at the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) seeks a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to work in the laboratory of Dr. Fernandez-Pena to investigate the neural mechanisms underlying psychiatric diseases. By leveraging a wide array of state-of-the-art techniques including in vivo calcium imaging, telemetry, chemo- and optogenetic manipulations, neuronal circuit tracing and genetic approaches. The Fernandez-Pena Lab aims to elucidate the role of interoception (aka internal signals from the body) in the development of psychiatric disorders, particularly anxiety and depression. The successful candidate will assist with experimental design, will conduct data collection and analysis, and contribute to the publication of findings (e.g. peer-reviewed articles, conference posters, grant applications). The laboratory is part of the Department of Neurological Sciences, which houses specialized departmental shared resources, including dedicated cores providing expertise for rodent behavior testing, whole-brain clearing and imaging and single-cell profiling. Required Qualifications:A Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Physiology, Pharmacology, or related fields. Preferred Qualifications: Excellent oral and written communication skills and ability to work effectively in collaborative team settings. Experience with neuroanatomy and animal behavior. Experience with surgical procedures in, in vivo or in vitro electrophysiology and/or imaging. Prior experience with neuroimaging analysis and programming languages (e.g., MATLAB, R, Python), is highly desirable. Candidates with expertise in neuroscience or related fields are encouraged to apply by submitting a current CV, a cover letter, and the names and contact information of three references. Review of applications will begin immediately but the position will remain open until filled. Company The Department of Neurological Sciences (DONS) is comprised of clinicians, scientists, and educators who have the vision, ability, and dedication to advance neural health across the lifespan. We are leaders in patient care, research, education, and outreach, delivering innovative care to patients with the most severe and complex disorders. Our funded research includes many clinical trials and strong investigator-initiated research programs and laboratories, including Mind and Brain Health, Dynamic Imaging, and Cognition and Neuromodulation. We are also the headquarters of the Great Plains IDeA Clinical and Translational Research Network, which spans four states and nine universities and is aimed at developing new medical research and training new scholars for the public good. We continue to grow and expand through robust clinical and research programs, connections to the growing Regional Provider Network, and even into the homes of our most fragile patients through telehealth initiatives and embedded sensor technologies. We are dedicated to saving lives, relieving suffering, and reducing the terrible impact of neurological disease on our patients, families, and community.