Post-doctoral Scholar

NIH/NIDA-funded postdoctoral position is available in the Ortinski laboratory at the University of Kentucky (UK) College of Medicine in Lexington, KY. Our lab focuses on neurophysiology of substance use disorders at single cell and cell network levels. The position is for one of three projects: 1) astroglial signaling and neural response to cocaine; 2) reward seeking and intrinsic conductances in the nucleus accumbens; 3) neurophysiology of behavioral escalation of fentanyl seeking. Among approaches heavily utilized in the lab are slice electrophysiology, Ca2+ imaging, and drug self-administration in the rat (e.g. PMID: 29712779; 29114105; 31487241; 31633029). Expected start date is May-August 2021.

Applicant Qualifications:

- Ph.D. in neuroscience or related field

- First/corresponding author publications in international peer-reviewed journals

- Strong laboratory, analytical, and writing skills 

- English fluency

- Knowledge of Matlab or other programming environments is a plus

The ideal candidate will be a creative, energetic, self-motivated individual who shows evidence of initiative in pursuing independent research, detail-oriented attitude, and willingness to mentor junior lab members. Preference will be given to candidates with experience in rodent surgeries, patch-clamping, in-vivo Ca2+ imaging, and optogenetics. Other candidates with a genuine interest in neuroglial interactions, neuronal networks and neural bases of behavior are encouraged to apply.

The UK hosts a multi-disciplinary community of neuroscience researchers. UK is distinguished by a historically strong focus on substance use research spanning the range from basic science to drug development to clinical studies of substance use. UK provides access to state-of-the-art facilities and a supportive, collegial environment for career and professional development. Lexington area offers multiple cultural, dining, and entertainment options to suit diverse life-style choices.

The UK does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender, age, disability, protected veteran status or genetics.

To apply, please submit a single PDF file with CV/biosketch, a brief statement of career goals, and names of three references to pavel.ortinski@uky.edu.

Salary will be commensurate with NIH guidance on postdoctoral stipends: https://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-files/NOT-OD-19-036.html