Postdoctoral Associate

Postdoctoral Associate

The Abraira laboratory in the Dept. Cell Biology & Neuroscience at Rutgers University is seeking a motivated and dedicated Postdoctoral Fellow to join our dynamic team studying the neuroscience of somatosensation, specifically utilizing mouse genetics. The selected candidate will have the unique opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research methodologies and techniques to decode the mysteries of the somatosensory system.

Position Status
- Full Time

Posting Number - 25FA0717

Posting Open Date - 07/22/2025

Posting Close Date

Minimum Education and Experience - A Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Molecular Biology, Genetics, or a related field. Demonstrated expertise in mouse genetics, genotyping, and behavior analysis. Proficient in a range of laboratory techniques related to neuroscience, genetics, and behavioral studies. Strong publication record in reputed scientific journals. Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Prior experience in somatosensory research. Familiarity with advanced imaging, electrophysiological techniques, and behavioral assay methodologies. Proficiency in using bioinformatics tools for genetics and neuroscience research.

Equipment Utilized
- The incumbent must be proficient in using specialized laboratory equipment such as electrophysiology rigs, advanced microscopy setups, behavioral assay apparatuses, and associated data analysis software to ensure comprehensive and accurate research outcomes.

Physical Demands and Work Environment
- The position requires extended periods of standing and repetitive movements, often in a laboratory setting with controlled temperatures and the occasional need to handle and work closely with live mice, ensuring all tasks are executed with precision and adherence to safety protocols.

Overview - 55 % 1.Research and Experimentation:
Conduct rigorous and innovative research in the realm of somatosensorial, emphasizing mouse genetics to uncover genetic underpinnings and molecular mechanisms. 10 % 2.Mouse Behavior Analysis:
Design, conduct, and interpret mouse behavioral experiments to elucidate the impact of genetic variations on somatosensory processing and related behaviors. 10 % 3.Data Analysis:
Employ advanced analytical methods, including imaging, electrophysiological recordings, molecular analyses, and behavioral metrics to interpret experimental results. 10 % 4.Mouse Colony Management:
Oversee the management, breeding, and genotyping of mouse colonies to ensure the availability of specific genetic strains for research purposes. 5 % 5.

Collaboration:

Engage with internal and external research teams, sharing findings, and integrating multi-disciplinary perspectives to enhance the overall depth and breadth of the research. 5 % 6.Publication and Dissemination:
Write and contribute to peer-reviewed publications, present findings at national and international conferences, and engage with the broader scientific community. 5 % 7.Lab Assistance/Teaching:
Mentor and provide guidance to junior researchers, graduate students, and lab technicians, fostering an environment of learning and collaboration.

Statement
- In this position, the Postdoctoral Fellow will frequently encounter complex issues, ranging from dissecting intricate genetic interactions impacting somatosensory processing to interpreting multifaceted behavioral data in the context of genetic variations. They will be expected to exercise significant discretion and independent judgment, utilizing their depth of expertise to design experiments, interpret nuanced results, and make decisions that guide the direction of the research, ensuring that the findings are robust, reproducible, and align with the overarching objectives of the lab.