About the Job
In this role, you will have the opportunity to conduct research related to the effects of exogenous and endogenous opioids on brain function and behavior, using laboratory mice as an experimental system. This includes behavioral tests following manipulations of opioid signaling, as well as measurements of opioid system function in brain tissue, including opioid-induced changes in synaptic transmission.
Responsibilities Include:
Research - 70%
- Conduct mouse handling, husbandry, breeding, colony maintenance, and behavioral testing
- Prepare acute brain slices and conduct whole-cell patch-clamp recordings
- Independently perform surgery and perfusions on experimental animals.
- Collect brain tissue samples from experimental animals; store and analyze the tissue (e.g., PCR, immunohistochemistry).
- Prepare buffers, reagents, and other solutions and test for pH level.
- Keep meticulously detailed records of all experiments and procedures in a laboratory notebook; perform statistical analyses of data obtained from experiments and render interpretations of the data.
Operations - 20%
- Keep the laboratory stocked, maintain inventories of supplies, and order items as necessary.
- Properly handle hazardous materials and dispose of all waste materials in an appropriate manner.
- Maintain chemical inventories and read and maintain appropriate Material Data Sheets and safety files.
- Adjust, calibrate, and perform minor repairs on equipment used in the laboratory.
- Become familiar with the assigned literature, attend weekly lab meetings, participate in laboratory journal clubs, and report to the PI regularly on progress.
- Assist and eventually independently write study protocols, standard operating procedures (SOPs), manuscripts, and grant applications.
Presenting and Instruction - 10%
- Present research summary in national and international meetings in oral and poster format by preparing abstracts and slides for presentation.
- Instruct students, fellows, and other inexperienced professional persons in proper laboratory methods and procedures.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
- A Doctorate Degree (PhD) in neuroscience or a relqted scientific field (e.g., psychology, genetics, biology)
- Prior experience with whole-cell patch-clamp recording in acute brain slice preparations
- Knowledge of the basic principles of biological science is required to assess observations, prepare specimens, run a variety of behavioral and biological assays, interpret the results of standardized tests, etc.
- Sufficient knowledge of the physiology of rats and mice is necessary in order to induce anesthesia, perform surgeries, and collect tissue and/or fluid samples
- Must possess or be able to readily obtain certification to perform animal studies and procedures
- Sufficient knowledge of mathematics and statistics is required to analyze and interpret test results.
- Knowledge and skill sufficient to maintain and operate standard instruments (fluorescence microscopes, pH meters, etc).
- Experience with manuscript and grant writing
About the Department
Neuroscience is the scientific study of the nervous system. It is an interdisciplinary science that collaborates with other fields such as chemistry, computer science, engineering, linguistics, mathematics, medicine and allied disciplines, philosophy, physics, and psychology.
The Department of Neuroscience is committed to providing excellence in research, education, and public service. The Department of Neuroscience is part of the University of Minnesota's Medical School.
Pay and Benefits
Pay Range: $63,480 annually; depending on education/qualifications/experience
Please visit the Benefits for Postdoctoral Candidates website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.
- Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
- Continuous learning opportunities through professional training
- Medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
- Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
- University HSA contributions
- Disability and life insurance
- Employee wellbeing program
- Financial counseling services
- Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
How To Apply
Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.
Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.
To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail jobcentr@umn.edu.
Diversity
The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.
The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu
Employment Requirements
Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.
About University of Minnesota
The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)
The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.
At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023, 2025, 2026), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.
