Postdoctoral Fellow in Neuroscience

Harvard University

Position Description

The Olveczky Laboratory in the Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology at Harvard University invites applications for a Postdoctoral Fellow position in systems neuroscience.

The lab investigates the neurobiological mechanisms underlying complex behaviors in rats, using tools from circuit-driven neuroscience and computational ethology. The successful candidate will contribute to ongoing research exploring how neural circuits support flexible and learned behaviors.

The position is based at Harvard’s Northwest Laboratories and provides access to state-of-the-art facilities and a highly collaborative scientific community.

Responsibilities and Research Focus

The postdoctoral fellow will design and conduct experiments using approaches that may include:

• Chronic neural recordings in freely behaving animals.
• High-resolution behavioral tracking and analysis.
• Optogenetic manipulations of neural circuits.
• Quantitative data analysis and modeling of behavioral and neural datasets.

The position offers an exceptional opportunity to develop independent research projects while collaborating within a dynamic and interdisciplinary environment.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Neuroscience or a closely related field (by start date).

Additional Qualifications

• Proven independent research experience and creativity.
• Strong background in systems or behavioral neuroscience.
• Experience with neurophysiology and quantitative data analysis.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Appointment Details

• Duration: One year, renewable annually for up to three years based on performance and funding.
• Salary: $67,600–$80,000 (commensurate with experience).
• Benefits: Full Harvard University employee benefits.
• Location: Northwest Laboratories, Cambridge, MA.

Application Instructions

Applicants should send the following materials to Professor Bence Olveczky at olveczky@fas.harvard.edu:

1. Cover letter describing research interests.
2. Curriculum vitae (CV).
3. Statement of research accomplishments and future goals.
4. Contact information for three references.

Review of applications will begin October 4, 2025, and continue until the position is filled.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Harvard University is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive academic community.
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and prohibit discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.