Job ID: 122421

Postdoctoral Associate in Neural Circuits of Threat Processing

Position: Post-doctoral Position

Deadline: 15 April 2025

City: Boulder

Country: United States

Institution: University of Colorado Boulder

Department: Molas Laboratory

Description:

The Molas Laboratory at the University of Colorado Boulder (CU Boulder) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position, immediately available, to investigate the neural circuits underlying innate threat processing in mice. This project explores behavioral responses to natural threats and the adaptive mechanisms that emerge with repeated exposures. From a translational perspective, we also examine how stressors impact defensive and adaptive behaviors over time.

The Molas Lab uses a combination of cutting-edge techniques, including genetic tools for neuronal ensemble labeling and manipulation, whole-brain light-sheet microscopy, two-photon imaging, single-cell spatial transcriptomics, and machine learning models for behavioral annotation, to understand these complex neural processes. The ideal candidate will bring expertise in systems neuroscience, neural imaging, optogenetics, and computational analysis (Python, R, or Matlab).

The University of Colorado Boulder is committed to building a culturally diverse community of faculty, staff, and students dedicated to contributing to an inclusive campus environment. We are an Equal Opportunity employer, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.

What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be

  • Design and execute experimental approaches to study threat processing and adaptive learning
  • tay up to date with the relevant scientific literature and contribute to lab and department discussions.
  • Mentor and provide guidance to junior researchers and students.
  • Maintain an organized, comprehensive lab notebook and data management.
  • Prepare and contribute to manuscript publications.
  • Present research at conferences and collaborate with other groups.

What You Should Know

  • Access to world-class research facilities and resources.
  • Collaborative and innovative scientific environment.
  • Great quality of life in beautiful Colorado and in a vibrant and culturally diverse city.

What We Can Offer

  • Salary $61,000 to $66,000 per year depending on experience.
  • Relocation assistance is available depending on department guidelines.
  • This position provides an exceptional opportunity to advance your career in neuroscience, working with state-of-the-art tools in a dynamic and collaborative environment. CU Boulder offers a competitive benefits package to support your professional and personal well-being.
The University of Colorado offers excellent benefits, including medical, dental, retirement, paid time off, tuition benefit and ECO Pass. The University of Colorado Boulder is one of the largest employers in Boulder County and offers an inspiring higher education environment. Learn more about the University of Colorado Boulder.

What We Require

  • Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Biology, Psychology, or a related field.
  • Hands-on experience with in vivo optogenetics, chemogenetics or fiber photometry.
  • At least 3 years of experience working with rodents/mice.
  • Proficiency in Python or R for data analysis.

Special Application Instructions

Note: Application materials will not be accepted via email. For consideration, applications must be submitted through CU Boulder Jobs.

To view the job ad in its entirety and apply to this position, please visit: https://jobs.colorado.edu/jobs/JobDetail/Postdoctoral-Associate-in-Neural-Circuits-of-Threat-Processing/62673// 

This position will be open till April 15, 2025.