RESEARCH FELLOW

A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your CV. The cover letter should specifically address why you are interested in this position and how your experience and skills directly relate to the responsibilities and qualifications of this position and include a brief statement of research areas and the names of three references. The Michigan Neuroscience Institute is an inclusive workplace that encourages individuals from diverse backgrounds and with diverse experiences to apply.

Please visit https://medicine.umich.edu/dept/michigan-neuroscience-institute for more information about the Institute.

The Allada Laboratory (alladalab.org) at the Michigan Neuroscience Institute seeks a highly motivated postdoctoral research fellow to investigate the molecular and circuit mechanisms underlying sleep homeostasis using Drosophila. The successful candidate will apply advanced approaches in Drosophila genetics, molecular biology, RNA sequencing, FACS, biochemistry, confocal imaging, behavioral neuroscience, and multi-omic data analysis.

Candidates should possess strong technical expertise in Drosophila genetics and molecular biology and demonstrate the ability to design, execute, troubleshoot, and interpret complex experiments. The position requires a highly productive, goal-oriented scientist who takes initiative, operates effectively in a fast-paced research environment, and can drive projects forward with a high degree of scientific ownership and accountability.

The successful candidate must demonstrate excellent written and oral communication skills, effectively interact with computational and experimental collaborators, and establish organized and reproducible workflows for experimental and data analysis pipelines. The position also requires the ability to incorporate constructive feedback effectively, adapt to evolving project priorities, and communicate scientific findings clearly to both internal and external audiences through presentations and peer-reviewed publications.

• Ph.D. in neuroscience, genetics, molecular biology, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated expertise in Drosophila genetics and molecular biology techniques.
• Strong record of scientific productivity, including peer-reviewed publications and evidence of driving projects toward completion.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and maintain strong organizational skills in a collaborative research environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively within collaborative teams, integrate constructive feedback, and continuously improve scientific and technical performance.
• Experience with one or more of the following is preferred: RNA-sequencing, FACS, confocal imaging, behavioral neuroscience, bioinformatics, or multi-omic data analysis.

• Highly productive and goal-oriented with strong scientific initiative.
• Demonstrates accountability, follow-through, and attention to detail.
• Comfortable operating independently while contributing effectively within collaborative teams.
• Receptive to mentorship and constructive feedback with a commitment to continuous growth and scientific rigor.