Post-Doctoral Research Associate

University of Texas at Dallas, United States

Updated: about 13 hours ago
Location: Richardson, TEXAS
Deadline: ;

Posting Details
Posting Details


Posting Number S05563P
Position Title Post-Doctoral Research Associate
Functional Title
Department Neuroscience
Salary Range $56,484 - 61,572, DOQ
Pay Basis Monthly
Position Status Regular full-time
Location Richardson
Position End Date (if temporary)
Posting Open Date 04/03/2024
Posting Close Date
Open Until Filled Yes
Desired Start Date 06/03/2024
Job Summary
The Gu Lab within the Department of Neuroscience at the University of Texas at Dallas is actively searching for a dedicated full-time Postdoctoral Research Associate.
The Gu Lab focuses on exploring how basal ganglia outputs interact with other brain regions to select, initiate, and execute motivated behavior in both health and disease. To accomplish this, we employ a range of advanced techniques, including single-cell/nucleus RNA sequencing, sophisticated viral tracing, machine learning-assisted mapping and reconstruction of brain-wide circuitry, behavioral clustering, cell-type and action-specific Cal-light tagging, closed-loop optogenetic manipulation, calcium imaging, and neuropixels recordings. 
Our aim is to elucidate the mechanisms at the circuit level that underpin basal ganglia function and its dysfunctions, with the ultimate goal of identifying novel therapeutic targets for a spectrum of diseases related to the basal ganglia, such as addiction, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and Parkinson’s Disease.
Why Join the Gu Lab?
Our lab offers a dynamic, supportive, and collaborative environment, fostering professional growth and the opportunity to make significant contributions to neuroscience. We are deeply committed to understanding the complexities of the brain and encourage like-minded individuals to join our quest.
This position is within the School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences at The University of Texas at Dallas (UTD — bbs.utdallas.edu). UTD is the fastest growing University in Texas, is ranked number 3 in the nation among universities less than 50 years old and houses a vibrant research community. The city of Dallas is an international economic hub with a vibrant cultural atmosphere and world-class sports and entertainment in a temperate climate.
Minimum Education and Experience

Ph.D in a related field.
Preferred Education and Experience
  • Ph.D. in biology, neuroscience, engineering, or a related field, with a keen interest in integrative neuroscience.
  • Experience with imaging, electrophysiology, or behavioral analysis; programming skills with a quantitative focus; previous research in systems neuroscience.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Duties & Responsibilities:
  • Use of state-of-the-art techniques such as calcium imaging, electrophysiology, closed-loop optogenetics, Cal-light tagging, and behavioral analysis.
  • Conducting neurobiology experiments, including rodent surgeries.
  • Taking a leading responsibility for projects, and analyzing data.
  • Prepare manuscript for publications.
  • Candidates will also have the opportunity to lead a team of undergraduate students with biology and neuroscience backgrounds to conduct experiments for projects initiated by the postdoc.
  • Other duties as assigned.


Essential Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
  • Highly organized, motivated individual who thrives both in independent research and as part of a team.
  • Strong analytical skills.
  • Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.
  • Background in systems neuroscience.
  • Programming proficiency (preferably in Python or Matlab).
  • The candidate is expected to demonstrate exceptional organizational skills, meticulous attention to detail, and a collaborative spirit.
Physical Activities
Working Conditions
Additional Information
Travel:
This position may be subject to occasional travel for conferences, training, and development, or for other project needs.
Work Notice:
Work will be performed on-site and in person.
What We Can Offer
UT Dallas is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We offer an employee-friendly work environment with a comprehensive benefit package including:
Competitive Salary
Tuition Benefits
Internal Training
Medical insurance – including 100% paid employee medical coverage for full-time employees
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Long and short-term disability
Retirement Plan Options
Paid time off
Paid Holidays All UT Dallas employees have access to various professional development opportunities, including a membership to Academic Impressions, LinkedIn Learning, and UT Dallas Bright Leaders Program.
Visit https://hr.utdallas.edu/employees/benefits/ for more information.
 
About Us
UT Dallas is a top public research university located in one of the nation’s fastest-growing metropolitan regions. Our seven schools offer more than 140 undergraduate and graduate programs, plus professional certificates and fast-track programs. Our student body is 31,000 strong, reflecting students from over 100 countries and a multiplicity of identities and experiences. UT Dallas is committed to graduating well-rounded members of the global community whose education has prepared them for rewarding lives and productive careers in a constantly changing world. 
 
The University has a variety of programs and initiatives to support engagement and success for all members of the campus community. Employee benefits include a range of physical and mental wellness resources. “LilyPad” lactation facilities are located throughout the campus. There are several Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) comprised of individuals who share common interests to help build community among UT Dallas faculty and staff (e.g., Universal Access ERG, Military and Veteran ERG, UT Dallas Young Professionals).
 
 
Rich with visual and performing arts venues, museum districts, professional and semi-professional athletics teams, botanical gardens, accessible trails and so much more, the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) metroplex has something for everyone to explore. UT Dallas partners with regional higher education institutions and school districts and with the Richardson Innovation Quarter (Richardson IQ), a major hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and educational activities. 
Special Instructions Summary
Interested applicants should submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, a brief statement of research interests, and contact information for at least two references to [email protected]
Important Message
1) All employees serve as a representative of the University and are expected to display respect, civility, professional courtesy, consideration of others and discretion in all interactions with members of the UT Dallas community and the general public.
2) The University of Texas at Dallas is committed to providing an educational, living, and working environment that is welcoming, respectful, and inclusive of all members of the university community. UT Dallas does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, genetic information, or veteran status in its services, programs, activities, employment, and education, including in admission and enrollment. EOE, including disability/veterans. The University is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities. To request reasonable accommodation in the employment application and interview process, contact the ADA Coordinator . For inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies, contact the Title IX Coordinator .

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