Post-Doctoral Associate – Department of Neuroscience

The Cohen Lab in the Department of Neuroscience at the University of Minnesota seeks a postdoctoral fellow to lead a project to uncover the functions of neuromodulators (e.g., serotonin, norepinephrine) and their impact on downstream networks of cells across the mouse brain. Experiments will include measurements and manipulations of neurotransmitter release, neural activity, and behavior. The ideal candidate will be team-oriented, with expertise in electrophysiology, optical physiology, and behavior. The position will be open starting in the fall of 2026 (start date is flexible).
Lab overview:
We aim to understand how the nervous system learns and makes decisions in dynamic environments. We are currently studying the structure and function of neurons that release monoamines (serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine, and histamine). These make up less than one-thousandth of one percent of our neurons, yet they broadcast their signals to most of the brain. Many disorders of the nervous system, including Alzheimer’s, depression, schizophrenia, drug addiction, and Parkinson’s disease, appear to involve dysfunction of monoaminergic signaling. Using anatomical techniques, cell-type-specific neurophysiology, theory, computation, and well-controlled behavioral tasks in mice, we aim to understand the functions of monoaminergic neurons and their targets throughout the brain. We anticipate that these basic discoveries will lead to an understanding of the biology of the nervous system and better treatments for its disorders.
We strive to make the lab a place of belonging, personal growth, and development. The best scientific environments include people with diverse backgrounds and perspectives. We are committed to the development and career growth of every lab member. For prior work from the lab, see https://www.jeremiahcohen.com/
Responsibilities
Research (90%)
* Design and perform experiments involving in vivo electrophysiology, optical physiology, and mouse behavior
* Develop and implement quantitative models and analyses of behavior and neural measurements
* Present results internally, via talks and progress reports, and externally, via conferences and publications
Lab operations (10%)
* Train team members to perform procedures
* Collaborate with team members to maintain lab operations

Required education and experience
* Ph.D. in neuroscience, biological sciences, biomedical engineering, or a related field
* Prior publications

Neuroscience is the scientific study of the nervous system. It is an interdisciplinary science that collaborates with other fields such as chemistry, computer science, engineering, linguistics, mathematics, medicine and allied disciplines, philosophy, physics, and psychology.

The Department of Neuroscience is committed to providing excellence in research, education, and public service. The Department of Neuroscience is part of the University of Minnesota’s Medical School.

Pay Range: $63,480 – $69,180 annually; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Please visit the Benefits for Postdoctoral Candidates website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training
• Medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

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 [email protected] or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

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The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation’s most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

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