Postdoctoral Scientist - Neuropharmacology Research

Why RTI

RTI International is an independent, scientific research institute dedicated to improving the human condition. Our vision is to address the world's most critical problems with technical and science-based solutions in pursuit of a better future. Clients rely on us to answer questions that demand an objective and multidisciplinary approach—one that integrates expertise across social, statistical, data, and laboratory sciences, engineering, and other technical disciplines to solve the world’s most challenging problems.

We believe in the promise of science and technical solutions, and we push ourselves every day to deliver on that promise for the good of people, communities, and businesses in the US and around the world. If you are looking for the opportunity to make a real difference, RTI is the place for you.

Discovery Sciences at RTI International, located in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, conducts innovative neuropsychopharmacology research focused on understanding the neural mechanisms underlying reward, stress, and pain. Our multidisciplinary team combines behavioral neuroscience, pharmacology, and advanced neural recording and manipulation techniques to support high-quality translational research. We are seeking a full-time Research Associate to contribute to and help manage a dynamic nonclinical and preclinical research program involving behavioral and neurophysiological studies in rodents.

As a Research Associate, you will play a key role in conducting and managing neuropsychopharmacology studies involving behaving rodents. This position requires both hands‑on laboratory expertise and strong organizational skills to support complex research projects from planning through execution, analysis, and reporting. You will work closely with investigators and collaborators while helping maintain a high standard of scientific rigor, regulatory compliance, and laboratory operations.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct behavioral and pharmacological dosing experiments in rodents.
• Perform rodent surgeries, including intracranial procedures, and provide pre‑and post‑operative care.
• Manipulate and monitor neural activity in rodents engaged in behavioral tasks.
• Maintain oversight of laboratory rodents, including monitoring animal health and welfare.
• Maintain accurate behavioral observations, experimental records, and data collection documentation.
• Review study data and associated records to ensure accuracy, completeness, and quality.

In addition to experimental work, you will help ensure smooth laboratory operations and regulatory readiness. This includes maintaining laboratory resources, supporting staff development, and contributing to scientific communication and dissemination.

Additional responsibilities include:

• Obtain, maintain, and inventory laboratory supplies and records.
• Maintain and troubleshoot laboratory equipment as needed.
• Ensure experiments are conducted in strict accordance with established protocols and applicable regulations, including NIH, GLP, and DEA requirements when necessary.
• Prepare for and assist with laboratory inspections and audits.
• Assist with training and mentoring new or less experienced staff members.
• Prepare written and oral reports and maintain clear communication with supervisors, colleagues, and external collaborators.
• Publish and present scientific findings in peer‑reviewed journals and professional conferences.
• Occasionally support weekend, holiday, or evening work as research activities require.

Required Qualifications:

• Doctoral degree in a relevant scientific discipline such as neuroscience, pharmacology, psychology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience working with behavioral and/or pharmacological rodent models.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively while meeting aggressive project timelines and deliverables.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with neural recording techniques and analysis of neurophysiological datasets.
• Experience with microscopy methods and related data interpretation.
• Proficiency with computational and statistical analysis tools such as MATLAB,…