Post Doctoral Associate

Job No: 535879
Work Type: Full Time
Location: Main Campus (Gainesville, FL)

The University of Florida is offering a postdoctoral associate position in the laboratory of Catherine Marcinkiewcz, Ph.D. The research focuses on neural circuit mechanisms underlying addiction and neurodegenerative disease. The postdoctoral scholar will develop and lead projects in three main areas: central actions of serotonin and neuropeptides in the biology of alcohol and substance use disorders; neural circuits at the intersection of stress, alcohol use and chronic pain;

and the role of biogenic amines and environmental risk factors in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease. The role includes experimental design, execution, data analysis, and dissemination of findings, as well as collaboration with mentors and peers in the Department of Cellular & Systems Pharmacology.

Execution of experiments in systems neuroscience, behavioral genetics, molecular mechanisms of disease and neuropharmacology, using techniques such as patch‑clamp electrophysiology, optogenetics, chemo genetics, fiber photometry, spatial transcriptomics, and 3D imaging. Development of novel research questions, writing of grant proposals, publication of research results, and participation in scientific meetings and grant‑writing training.

• Doctorate in a field appropriate to the assigned duties.
• Track record of productivity and prior publications.
• Excellent writing and communication skills.

• Expertise in neuroanatomy, small animal surgery, electrophysiology, and behavioral pharmacology.
• Prior working experience with rodent models.
• Small animal stereotaxic surgery experience.
• Experience in patch‑clamp electrophysiology.
• Experience with rodent behavioral assays and analysis.
• Experience in molecular techniques such as RNAseq and in situ hybridization.
• Experience in optogenetics, fiber photometry, or in vivo calcium imaging through endoscopic lenses.

Commensurate with education and experience.

• Health insurance, vision, dental, and long‑term disability coverage through UF’s state‑ and university‑sponsored plans.
• Retirement options under the FICA Alternative Plan and other deferred retirement plans.
• Paid leave bi‑weekly.

The University of Florida is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. Hiring is contingent on eligibility to work in the U.S. The University of Florida is a public institution and is subject to all requirements under Florida Sunshine and Public Record laws. If an accommodation due to a disability is needed to apply for this position, please call  or the Florida Relay System at  (TDD) or visit Accessibility at UF.