Job Description

Post-Doctoral Fellow
Section on Behavioral Neuroscience
National Institute of Mental Health
National Institutes of Health
Department of Health and Human Services
Bethesda, MD 20892, USA

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), a major research component of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), is seeking exceptional candidates for a Post-Doctoral Fellow position in the Division of Intramural Research Programs (DIRP), Section on Behavioral Neuroscience, headed by Dr. Yogita Chudasama.

We are seeking highly motivated individuals interested in the functional and anatomical organization of frontotemporal circuits in rodents and marmosets. Studies will have a strong behavioral emphasis and will include: 1) the precise developmental characterization of circuit neuroanatomy using viruses, 2) the careful measurement of the abnormal development of cognitive and social behaviors, and 3) temporary in vivo interference of selective pathways or catecholamine messengers using cell-type specific suppression or stimulation with genetically encoded agents. Our goal is to assess the behavioral consequences of anatomical, neurochemical and genetic manipulations to large-scale circuits associated with complex cognitive-emotional functions.

The ideal candidate will be a talented and motivated scientist with good intuition and an ambition to succeed as an independent investigator. They must have recently acquired a Ph.D. in the field of neuroscience and have experience in the general area of neuroscience, neurobiology or neurophysiology. The candidate is expected to be experienced in methods of histology and microscopy, and be familiar with methods of fluorescence imaging, fiber photometry and optogenetics. Experience with coding in R, Matlab and/or Python will be an advantage. The candidate should have excellent interpersonal and communication skills, and bring a strong desire to prepare manuscripts, as well as mentor technicians and students. Our lab embraces and promotes diversity, equity and inclusion. We base our strengths on teamwork and believe that the most efficient way to achieve goals is through the collective discussion of ideas and approaches in a positive workplace for all.

Salary will be commensurate with education and experience. Applicants should submit: a) a curriculum vitae including publication list, b) a one-page summary of research interests, and c) names and contact details of three referees to Dr. Yogita Chudasama by email ([email protected]).