Postdoctoral Research Scientist

An NIH-funded postdoctoral Research Scientist position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Linda Rinaman, Program in Neuroscience, Florida State University (FSU). The Rinaman Lab seeks an experienced, intellectually curious and highly motivated individual who may be interested in a long-term position (although this not a requirement). Candidates should have earned their PhD in neuroscience or a closely related field.

The Rinaman Lab studies neural systems that orchestrate adaptive and maladaptive responses to emotional and physiological stress. These include brain-gut systems that control food intake, threat avoidance, and other motivated behaviors. We also study the effects of early life adversity on gene expression and synaptic connectivity within vagal and central circuits that shape emotional responses across the lifespan. Our multidisciplinary studies use wildtype and transgenic rodent models, Cre-conditional AAV’s and neurotropic viruses, chemogenetics, multiplex fluorescent in situ hybridization, whole brain tissue-clearing with confocal and lightsheet microscopy, and an array of sophisticated analyses to assay feeding, avoidance, and other motivated behaviors. 

Competitive applicants will display two or more of the following skills and experiences: Rodent behavioral research • Rodent surgery • Brain tissue histology and immunocytochemistry • Use of AAVs and/or neurotropic viral tracers • Chemogenetics and/or optogenetics • Bench skills in molecular biology • Fluorescent in situ hybridization (e.g., RNAscope) • Epifluorescent and confocal microscopy • Strong scientific writing and oral communication skills. 

Women and under-represented minorities in academia are encouraged to apply. FSU has a vibrant neuroscience research community and many professional development opportunities designed to support continued scientific growth and career-building. 

Interested candidates should email the following to lrinaman@fsu.edu:   

1. Updated CV or NIH-style Biosketch
2. A cover letter outlining your prior experience, research interests, and career goals  
3. Contact information for three professional references