Post-Doctoral Associate - Neuroscience

About the Job

Post-Doctoral Associate

A postdoctoral position at NIH-level salary is available in the laboratory of Dr. Detlef Heck, Department of Biomedical Sciences at the University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth Campus.

We study brain-wide neuronal circuits supporting motor, cognitive and affective brain functions with a special focus on the role of the cerebellum. Experimental techniques include multi-site, high-density electrophysiological recordings in freely moving mice during behavior, neural circuit tracing, pathway and cell-type specific optogenetic and chemogenetic manipulations, detailed behavioral analysis and, in collaboration with other groups, calcium and voltage imaging of neuronal activity.

Candidates should have a PhD degree (or equivalent) in neuroscience or related fields. Prior experience with in vivo electrophysiological recordings, viral vector techniques and proficiency in MATLAB or Python are desired. Current postdoc salary is at $61,000/year with a competitive benefits package. The Department of Biomedical Sciences offers a nurturing environment and promotes interdisciplinary collaborations. In addition to trainings in the lab setting, the University of Minnesota Postdoctoral Programs (https://grad.umn.edu/prospective-postdocs) offer supplementary trainings in grants writing, teaching, career development, etc.

Interested individuals please contact Dr. Detlef Heck at heckd@d.umn.edu with any questions. Applications must be submitted online.

Job Duties:

● Conduct research using multi-site, high-density recordings of neuronal activity in freely moving mice using shank electrodes and tetrodes.

• Analyze and interpret neurophysiological and behavioral data

• Collaborate with a diverse team of researchers, including the PI, graduate students, and other postdoctoral fellows.

• Publish research findings in high-impact peer-reviewed journals and present at scientific conferences.

• Gain experience writing and submitting grants for institutions such as the National Institutes as Health.

• Have the freedom to pursue your own research interests within the broader theme of neuronal control of behavior, with the PI's guidance and support.

● Teaching

This position is based on campus. Per UMN policy, work may be done remotely when appropriate and approved by your manager. All UMN employees are expected to follow applicable public health and safety procedures.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

Ph.D. in Neuroscience or related field

Preferred Qualifications:

Prior experience with in vivo electrophysiological recordings, viral vector techniques and proficiency in MATLAB or Python are desired.

About the Department

The mission of the University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth campus is to be a national leader in improving healthcare access and outcomes in rural Minnesota and American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) communities.

We do this by:

Educating medical students dedicated to serving rural Minnesota and American Indian/Alaska Native communities'

Fostering excellence in research

Emphasizing the training of physicians in Family Medicine

Creating strong partnerships locally, regionally, nationally and internationally

Working in innovative, interdisciplinary and inter-professional teams

Benefits

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off

• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program

• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans

• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts

• University HSA contributions

• Disability and employer-paid life insurance

• Employee wellbeing program

• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution

• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity

• Financial counseling services

• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefits.

How To Apply

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

This position will remain open until filled.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

Diversity

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

About the U of M

University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD)

The University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD) consistently ranks among the top Midwestern, regional universities in U.S. News and World Report's "America's Best Colleges" issue.

Overlooking Lake Superior, UMD provides an alternative to both large research and small liberal arts environments and attracts students looking for a personalized learning experience on a medium-sized campus of a major university. A firm liberal arts foundation anchors a variety of traditional degree programs, as well as professional and graduate students that draw on UMD's many research institutes and labs.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).