Job Details

Postdoctoral Associate in Neural Circuits of Threat Processing

Position Number: 6078221
Location: Boulder, CO
Position Type: Laboratory and Research

Postdoctoral Associate in Neural Circuits of Threat Processing

Requisition Number: 62673
Location: Boulder Colorado
Employment Type: Research Faculty
Schedule: Full Time
Posting Close Date: 15-Apr-2025
Date Posted:

Job Summary

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.

Who We Are

The primary vision of the Molas lab seeks to understand the neuronal circuits and mechanisms controlling novelty responses and adaptive learning processes with repeated exposures, by using a multidisciplinary research strategy with cutting-edge tools that integrate circuit mapping, gene expression analysis, photometry recordings, optogenetics, together with mouse behavioral paradigms.

Visit our website to know more about our research and team:

https://sites.google.com/view/molaslab

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.

Benefits

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.

Be Statements

Be ambitious. Be groundbreaking. Be 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.

What You Will Need

Excellent oral and written communication skills in English.
A strong record of publication in peer-reviewed journals.
References that demonstrate your scientific capabilities and collaborative spirit.
Enthusiasm for working in a highly collaborative, team-oriented environment.

Special Instructions

To apply, please submit the following materials:

Resume or CV
Cover Letter addressed to the Search Committee briefly describing your qualifications, professional goals, and specific interest in the position.
List of 3 references

If you are selected as the finalist, your degree will be verified by the CU Boulder Campus Human Resources department using an approved online vendor. If your degree was obtained outside the United States, please submit a translated version as an optional attachment.

This position will be open till April 15, 2025.

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

In compliance with the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, in any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.

To apply, visit https://jobs.colorado.edu/jobs/JobDetail/Postdoctoral-Associate-in-Neural-Circuits-of-Threat-Processing/62673