Postdoctoral Fellow/Trainee

Job Summary:

The Hughes lab seeks a skilled neuroscientist / biophysicist to design and perform experiments using optical methods to study how oligodendroglia respond to neuronal activity and demyelinating injury in gray and white matter regions. The successful candidate will work with cutting-edge tools, such as long-term three-photon in vivo imaging, to explore the intersection of neuroscience, optical physics, and oligodendrocyte biology. We are particularly interested in candidates who are passionate about pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge and are eager to contribute their expertise to a collaborative research environment. In addition to research, this role offers opportunities for professional development, mentorship, and networking within the scientific community.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design and conduct experiments to study the effects of circuit-specific neuronal activity and demyelinating injury on oligodendroglia in both superficial and deep areas of the adult brain.
• Perform experiments and participate in multidisciplinary studies involving long-term three-photon in vivo imaging, mouse genetics, molecular profiling, and mouse behavior.
• Teaching activities, such as training team members, will generally be limited to other staff, students, or faculty collaborators in the laboratory. 
• Leadership role in planning scientific activities in the laboratory, which may include writing both grants and scientific publications. 
• Responsible for presenting results internally at laboratory meetings on a regular basis and to the scientific community via conferences and publications.  

Work Location:

Onsite - this role is expected to work onsite and is located in Aurora, Colorado.  

Why Join Us:

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a challenging inflammatory disease affecting the central nervous system, impacting millions of individuals worldwide. Despite its prevalence, there remains a significant gap in our understanding of the cellular mechanisms underlying recovery from MS symptoms, particularly concerning the differences in oligodendrocyte behavior and remyelination between gray and white matter regions. This postdoctoral position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research aimed at elucidating these crucial distinctions using innovative optical methodologies.

The University of Colorado offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, life insurance, retirement plans, tuition benefits, ECO pass, paid time off – vacation, sick, and holidays and more. To see what benefits are available, please visit: https://www.cu.edu/employee-services/benefits-wellness .

Diversity and Equity:

The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus is committed to recruiting and supporting a diverse student body, faculty and administrative staff. The university strives to promote a culture of inclusiveness, respect, communication and understanding. We encourage applications from women, ethnic minorities, persons with disabilities, persons within the LGBTQ+ community and all veterans. The University of Colorado is committed to diversity and equality in education and employment.

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications:  

Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.  

• PhD in neuroscience, biophysics, physics, biomedical engineering, or related field; or equivalent combination of degree and experience 

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with in vivo brain imaging and/or neurophotonics techniques
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Proficiency in coding, data analysis, and scientific writing
• Strong publication record 

How to Apply:

For full consideration, please submit the following document(s):

1.    A letter of interest describing relevant job experiences as they relate to listed job qualifications and interest in the position

2.    Curriculum vitae / Resume

3.    Five professional references including name, address, phone number (mobile number if appropriate), and email address

Applications are accepted electronically ONLY at www.cu.edu/cu-careers .

Questions should be directed to: Ethan Hughes, Ph.D., [email protected]

Screening of Applications Begins:

Screening begins immediately and continues until June 1st , 2025.

Anticipated Pay Range:

The starting salary range (or hiring range ) for this position has been established as HIRING RANGE:

Minimum salary is $70,000 to $85,000.

Final salary is commensurate with skills and experience.  The University of Colorado offers a full benefits package.  Information on University benefits programs, including eligibility, is located at www.cusys.edu/pbs . This opportunity offers relocation assistance and work visa sponsorship. The above salary range (or hiring range ) represents the University’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. This position is not eligible for overtime compensation unless it is non-exempt.

Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Colorado provides generous leave, health plans and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.

Total Compensation Calculator: http://www.cu.edu/node/153125

ADA Statement:

The University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities throughout the employment application process. To request an accommodation pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact the Human Resources ADA Coordinator at [email protected] ​.

Background Check Statement:

The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus is dedicated to ensuring a safe and secure environment for our faculty, staff, students and visitors. To assist in achieving that goal, we conduct background investigations for all prospective employees.

Vaccination Statement:

CU Anschutz strongly encourages vaccination against the COVID-19 virus and other vaccine preventable diseases . If you work, visit, or volunteer in healthcare facilities or clinics operated by our affiliated hospital or clinical partners or by CU Anschutz, you will be required to comply with the vaccination and medical surveillance policies of the facilities or clinics where you work, visit, or volunteer, respectively. In addition, if you work in certain research areas or perform certain safety sensitive job duties, you must enroll in the occupational health medical surveillance program .