UNIV - Postdoc - Department of Neurosciences

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 the field of systems neuroscience.

The Gowrishankar lab endeavors to uncover the neurobiological basis of motivated behaviors and how these basic mechanisms go awry in mouse models of substance use disorders, major depressive disorders and chronic pain. The lab utilizes a variety of systems neuroscience techniques including anatomical tracing, in situ hybridization, opto- and chemo-genetics, in vivo fiber photometry and in vivo two-photon imaging. Prior experience in mouse handling, a demonstrated track record of publications and/or preprints is required; experience in in vivo imaging methodologies and substance use models is desired. For more details on the Gowrishankar Lab’s research and vision, please visit: https://www.raajgowrishankarlab.org/

The ideal individual for this position is an organized, detail-oriented, and intrinsically motivated person with a comprehensive knowledge of neuroscience fundamentals, systems neuroscience research techniques and demonstrated track record in publishing research related to the lab’s interests. They will be able to learn new research skills, apply existing skills on new research topics, provide experimental assistance, contribute to the development and writing of research grants, contribute to research manuscripts and work well within a team. Training will be provided by the PI (Dr. Raaj Gowrishankar) on all aspects of the job description. This position is perfect for a recent graduate with a Ph.D. in neuroscience or related disciplines, or for those about to obtain their Ph.D. In neuroscience. to gain additional research experience before moving on to graduate or medical school. This person will be part of a new and dynamic research laboratory and will take ownership in laying the groundwork for the best lab practices and working environment for future lab members. This position is expected to start August 1, 2026.

Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC - Univ)

Employee

Regular

CC000984 COM NEURO RES Operations CC

Salary

University-00

0.00 - 0.00 - 0.000

40

• A Ph.D. in neuroscience or related fields, obtained on or before July 31, 2026

• Experience with mouse handling is a requirement

• Strong organizational and communication skills

• Ability to work independently and in a team

• Comprehensive Knowledge of biomedical research techniques and neuroscience core concepts

• Demonstrated track record in the form of a strong publication record on topics related to the lab’s research interests

Physical Requirements: (Note: The following descriptions are applicable to this section: Continuous - 6-8 hours per shift; Frequent - 2-6 hours per shift; Infrequent - 0-2 hours per shift) Ability to perform job functions in an upright position. (Continuous) Ability to perform job functions in a seated position. (Continuous) Ability to perform job functions while walking/mobile. (Frequent) Ability to climb stairs. (Infrequent) Ability to work indoors. (Continuous) Ability to work in all cold temperature extremes, i.e. spot coolers. (Frequent) Ability to bend at the waist. (Frequent) Ability to twist at the waist. (Frequent) Ability to perform 'pinching' operations. (Continuous) Ability to fully use both hands/arms. (Continuous) Ability to perform repetitive motions with hands/wrists/elbows and shoulders. (Continuous) Ability to fully use both legs. (Continuous) Ability to reach in all directions. (Continuous) Possess good finger dexterity. (Continuous) Ability to maintain tactile sensory functions. (Continuous) Ability to maintain good olfactory sensory function. (Continuous) Ability to lift and carry 15 lbs., unassisted. (Frequent) Ability to lift objects, up to 15 lbs., from floor level to height of 72 inches, unassisted. (Frequent) Ability to lower objects, up to 15 lbs., from height of 72 inches to floor level, unassisted. (Frequent) Ability to push/pull objects, up to 15 lbs., unassisted. (Infrequent) Ability to lift and carry objects up to 15 lbs. a distance of five (5) floors and to outlying buildings. (Frequent) Ability to maintain 20/40 vision, corrected. (Continuous) Ability to see and recognize objects close at hand. (Continuous) Ability to see and recognize objects at a distance. (Continuous) Ability to match or discriminate between colors. (Continuous) Ability to determine distance/relationship between objects; depth perception. (Continuous) Good peripheral vision capabilities. (Continuous) Ability to maintain hearing acuity, with correction. (Continuous) Ability to perform gross motor functions with frequent fine motor movements. (Continuous) Ability to be qualified physically (by medical personnel) for respirator use, initially and annually. Ability to work alone in isolated areas, such as darkrooms. (Frequent)

Additional New Requirements: Ability to obtain and maintain a valid drivers 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.

If you like working with energetic enthusiastic individuals, you will enjoy your career with us!

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.

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