UNIV - Postdoc - Department of Neurosciences

Job Description Summary The Gowrishankar Lab at the Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join our laboratory. This position is an excellent opportunity for candidates who have recently obtained or are about to obtain a Ph.D. in neuroscience or related fields to learn new skills and concepts, apply their existing experience in new research topics and contribute to new discoveries in systems neuroscience. The lab focuses on uncovering the neurobiological basis of motivated behaviors and how these mechanisms go awry in mouse models of substance use disorders, major depressive disorders and chronic pain. Techniques include anatomical tracing, in situ hybridization, opto‑ and chemogenetics, in vivo fiber photometry and two‑photon imaging. Prior experience in mouse handling, a publication record, and knowledge of in vivo imaging are required; experience with substance use models is desired. This person will be part of a new, dynamic laboratory, take ownership of lab practices and work toward securing funding. The position is expected to start August 1, 2026. Job Duties 50% Surgical and Behavioral Procedures in Mice: learn and perform intracranial mouse surgeries for opto/chemogenetics, anatomical tracing, gene manipulation, fiber photometry and two‑photon imaging; conduct behavioral procedures including operant self‑administration studies and assays for chronic pain and depressive‑like behavior. 20% Data Analyses: learn and assist in analysis of data using computational and statistical methods in MATLAB and Python. 10% Grant Writing: apply for funding and assist the PI in writing grant proposals. 10% Animal Husbandry: provide basic husbandry care for breeding animals used in experiments, monitor and maintain mouse lines. 10% Wet Lab Procedures with Tissue: learn and perform brain extractions, tissue collection, immunohistochemistry and in‑situ hybridization. Minimum Qualifications A Ph.D. in neuroscience or related fields, obtained on or before July 31, 2026. Experience with mouse handling. Strong organizational and communication skills. Ability to work independently and in a team. Comprehensive knowledge of biomedical research techniques and core neuroscience concepts. Demonstrated track record of publications related to lab’s research interests. Additional Qualifications (desired) Experience with in‑vivo fiber photometry and in‑vivo two‑photon imaging. Experience with substance use disorder animal models. Experience with computational and statistical methods in MATLAB and Python. Additional Job Requirements Ability to obtain and maintain a valid driver’s license. Computer literacy. Ability to work rotating shifts as required. Ability to work overtime as required. Ability to learn and use new processes, tools and equipment as required. Equal Employment Opportunity Statement The Medical University of South Carolina is an Equal Opportunity Employer. MUSC does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, age, sex, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, protected veteran status, family or parental status, or any other status protected by state laws and/or federal regulations. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment based upon applicable qualifications, merit and business need. Legal Notice Medical University of South Carolina participates in the federal E‑Verify program to confirm the identity and employment authorization of all newly hired employees. For further information about the E‑Verify program, please click here: #J-18808-Ljbffr Dormont Manufacturing Co