"Research Professional 5-Preclinical Research - Department of Neuroscience"

Job Details

About the Job

This position will work on a research project investigating the role of thalamo–accumbens neural circuits in relapse-like behaviors following abstinence from opioids. The project integrates behavioral models of opioid self-administration with circuit-level and cellular neuroscience approaches to understand mechanisms underlying vulnerability to relapse.

The successful candidate will conduct independent and collaborative research using rodent models of opioid use disorder. Experience with self-administration paradigms, in vivo fiber photometry, and/or ex vivo electrophysiology is advantageous but not required; candidates with strong quantitative or neuroscience backgrounds and a willingness to learn new techniques are strongly encouraged to apply.

The Researcher will work closely with the Principal Investigator, Yanaira Alonso-Caraballo, and will receive direct mentorship and hands-on training tailored to the candidate’s background and career goals. Training will emphasize experimental design, data analysis, scientific writing, and development of an independent research trajectory.

In addition to research training, the position provides structured mentorship in grant writing and career development, including support for applications to external funding mechanisms (e.g., NIH fellowships and career development awards). The Postdoctoral Researcher will have opportunities to contribute to manuscripts, present findings at national and international conferences, and participate in collaborative projects within and beyond the lab.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Research (90%)
• Design, conduct, and analyze independent and collaborative experiments related to circuit-level mechanisms of opioid relapse; interpret results and report findings to the Principal Investigator.
• Lead individual research projects while contributing to larger, team-based research efforts within the lab.
• Develop, modify, and optimize experimental and analytical protocols; document and maintain protocols in accordance with institutional and funding requirements.
• Maintain accurate and organized research records and datasets.
• Prepare and present research findings at laboratory meetings, departmental seminars, and local and national scientific conferences.
• Work closely with the Principal Investigator to prepare manuscripts, figures, and support materials for peer-reviewed publication.

Training and mentorship (10%)
• Mentor and train undergraduate and master’s-level students in experimental techniques, data analysis, and responsible conduct of research.
• Provide guidance on experimental design, troubleshooting, and interpretation of results.
• Contribute to a collaborative, inclusive, and supportive laboratory training environment.

Qualifications

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
• Advanced degree in Neuroscience or closely related field with one or more years of research training.
• A scientific track record demonstrated by first author paper(s) published or accepted in a well-recognized journal.

Preferred
• Prior experience working with opioid mouse models, or intravenous self-administration paradigms is ideal.
• Experience with in-vivo fiber photometry/electrophysiology is desirable.

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $83,000 - $85,000 annually ; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff

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

The University 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
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

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 be given 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.

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