Position Summary

Dr. Cheng Huang’s laboratory in the Department of Neuroscience at Washington University in St. Louis is currently seeking a postdoctoral researcher to investigate the mechanisms of dopamine-mediated adaptive memory in the Drosophila brain. This study will employ a diverse range of interdisciplinary approaches, incorporating cutting-edge techniques such as behavioral analysis, imaging, connectom, genetic, molecular, and biochemistry methodologies.

The Huang lab uses fruit flies, Drosophila, as a model system to study how animals acquire and store information from past experiences and then shape their future decisions. Utilizing novel chronic voltage-imaging techniques, we can track neuronal changes underlying memory with unprecedented millisecond-scale temporal precision and over long-term durations of many weeks in behaving flies. The unique combination of quantitative behavior measurements, large-scale optical imaging, synaptic-level connectome analyses and computational approaches empower us to address fundamental questions regarding memory processing integratively. More details about our research directions and recent publications can be found at sites.wustl.edu/huanglab/research/ .

The PI is devoted to providing mentorship and fostering a creative, thoughtful, and collaborative atmosphere within the lab. As part of the esteemed neuroscience community at Washington University School of Medicine, the Department of Neuroscience offers excellent infrastructure, core facility support, and a vibrant research environment in the 11-story Neuroscience Research Building. Additionally, postdoctoral researchers benefit from a specialized Office of Postdoctoral Affairs that offers numerous professional development opportunities. The St. Louis area blends the advantages of a major city with an affordable living experience. This position includes a competitive salary and a generous benefits package, making it an attractive opportunity for aspiring researchers.

Information on being a postdoc at Washington University in St. Louis can be found at postdoc.wustl.edu/prospective-postdocs-2/ .

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

Trains under the supervision of a faculty mentor including (but not limited to):

• Manages their own project, which should lead to a first author publication.
• Develops expertise in functional brain imaging and quantitative behavioral assays.
• Develops proficiency in career skills, including writing, public speaking, networking, and critical evaluation of scientific literature.
• Presents scientific work both inside and outside the University with excellent oral communication skills.
• Assists with grant preparation and reporting.
• Prepares and submits papers on research with excellent writing skills.
• Designs research experiments.
• Evaluates research findings and reports results.
• Conscientious discharge of his/her research responsibilities.
• Maintains conformity with ethical standards in research.
• Maintains compliance with good laboratory practice including the maintenance of adequate research records.
• Engages in open and timely discussion with his/her mentor regarding possession or distribution of material, reagents, or records belonging to their laboratory and any proposed disclosure of findings or techniques privately or in publications.
• Collegial conduct towards co-trainees, staff members and members of the research group.
• Adherence to all applicable University policies, procedures and regulations. 
• All data, research records and materials and other intellectual property generated in University laboratories remain the property of the University.

Required Qualifications

Ph.D., M.D. or equivalent terminal or doctoral degree.

Preferred Qualifications

We seek highly motivated, independent individuals who are dedicated to the pursuit of scientific discovery. While experience in optical imaging, electrophysiology, animal behavior, or systems neuroscience is valued, we appreciate that our interdisciplinary work benefits from various perspectives. As such, applicants with backgrounds in molecular and cell biology, systems biology, biophysics, or engineering may also be well-suited for this position, even if their previous work does not directly involve neuroscience or Drosophila research.

Working Conditions

This position works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards. The individual must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals.

Salary Range

Base pay is commensurate with experience.

Applicant Special Instructions

Applicants should submit the following materials to huang.cheng@wustl.edu :

1) A cover letter detailing your motivation for applying, research experience, and areas of interest; 2) Your curriculum vitae (CV); 3) Contact information for at least three professional references.

Accommodation

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email CandidateQuestions@wustl.edu  or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

Pre-Employment Screening
All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

Benefits Statement
Washington University in St. Louis is committed to providing a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to our employees. Benefits eligibility is subject to employment status, full-time equivalent (FTE) workload, and weekly standard hours. Please visit our website at https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/ to view a summary of benefits.

EEO/AA Statement
Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity and especially encourages applications by those from underrepresented groups. It is the University’s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Diversity Statement
Washington University is dedicated to building a diverse community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment – fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.