"Postdoctoral Associate – Systems Neuroscience: In Vivo Imaging & Electrophysiology"

Postdoctoral Associate – Systems Neuroscience: In Vivo Imaging & Electrophysiology

Location: Virginia Tech, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at VTC (Roanoke, Virginia, USA)

Lab: Shin Lab | Lab Website

Institution Type: Academic

Position Type: Postdoctoral Associate

Discipline: Systems Neuroscience, Circuit Neuroscience, Social Behavior, Pain Research

The Shin Lab at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech is seeking a highly motivated and creative Postdoctoral Associate to join our team. Our research focuses on thalamo-hippocampal circuits underlying social aggression and pain regulation, with the goal of uncovering novel mechanisms that shape complex behaviors. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals passionate about systems and circuit neuroscience, offering a stimulating and collaborative environment, cutting-edge tools, and strong mentorship for scientific and career development.

Recent highlights from the Shin Lab:

• https://news.vt.edu/articles/2025/07/research_fralinbiomed_shinR01_mmdd.html
• https://news.vt.edu/articles/2023/11/research_fbri_shinstress_1123.html

Responsibilities:

• Lead an independent research project using cutting-edge approaches in whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiology, in vivo calcium imaging, and animal behavioral tests.
• Employ advanced neural circuit dissection methods (e.g., optogenetics, chemogenetics, stereotaxic viral delivery).
• Analyze and interpret complex datasets and contribute to conceptual advances in the field.
• Draft and publish high-impact papers and pursue fellowship opportunities.

Required Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in neuroscience or related discipline.
• Strong background in in vivo behavioral assays, electrophysiology, and/or imaging techniques.
• Solid publication record in peer-reviewed journals.
• Experience with stereotaxic surgery and circuit-level manipulations is highly desirable.
• Communication skills and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

Why Join Us:

• Work in an NIH-funded lab with an exciting and evolving research program.
• Gain hands-on experience in circuit-level analysis of behavior.
• Collaborate with a vibrant research community at Virginia Tech and beyond.
• Opportunity for career development, conference travel, and grant writing support.

How to Apply:

Please send the following to Dr. Sora Shin at srshin@vtc.vt.edu:

• A cover letter describing your research experience and interests
• Your CV
• Contact information for three references

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Apply via link here: https://careers.pageuppeople.com/968/cw/en-us/job/533798/postdoctoral-associate