Position Summary

A postdoctoral position is available in Dr. Tom Franken’s laboratory in the Department of Neuroscience at the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. The project will study the neural circuits that parse visual scenes into organized collections of objects. We use a variety of techniques including high-density electrophysiology, behavior, optogenetics, and viral targeting in non-human primates. For more information on the lab, please visit sites.wustl.edu/frankenlab/ .

The PI is committed to mentoring and to nurturing a creative, thoughtful and collaborative lab culture. The laboratory is in an academic setting in the Department of Neuroscience at the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, a large and collaborative scientific community. This provides an ideal environment to train, conduct research, and launch a career in science.

Postdoctoral appointees at Washington University receive a competitive salary and a generous benefits package (hr.wustl.edu/benefits/ ).

WashU Neuroscience is consistently ranked as one of the top 10 places worldwide for neuroscience research and offers an outstanding interdisciplinary training environment for early career researchers. In addition to high-quality research facilities, career and professional development training for postdoctoral researchers is provided through the Career Center, Teaching Center, Office of Postdoctoral Affairs, and campus groups.  

St. Louis is a city rich in culture, green spaces, free museums, world-class restaurants, and thriving music and arts scenes. On top of it all, St. Louis is affordable and commuting to campus is stress-free, whether you go by foot, bike, public transit, or car. The area combines the attractions of a major city with affordable lifestyle opportunities (postdoc.wustl.edu/prospective-postdocs/why-st-louis/ ).

Washington University is dedicated to building a diverse community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment – fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.

Additional information on being a postdoc at Washington University in St. Louis can be found at neuroscience.wustl.edu/education/postdoctoral-research/ and postdoc.wustl.edu/prospective-postdocs . 

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. (or equivalent doctoral) degree in neuroscience (broadly defined).
• Strong background in either electrophysiology, behavioral techniques or scientific programming/machine learning.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with training of larger animals.
• Experience with electrophysiology.
• Experience with studies of the visual system.
• Ability to think creatively to solve problems.
• Well organized and attention to detail.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Team player with a high level of initiative and motivation.

Working Conditions

This position works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards.  The individual must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals.

Salary Range

Base pay is commensurate with experience.

Applicant Special Instructions

Applicants should submit the following materials to Dr. Tom Franken at ftom@wustl.edu :

1) A cover letter explaining how their interest in the position matches their background and career goals.

2) CV or Biosketch.

3) Contact information for at least three professional references.

Accommodation

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email CandidateQuestions@wustl.edu  or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

Pre-Employment Screening
All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

Benefits Statement
Washington University in St. Louis is committed to providing a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to our employees. Benefits eligibility is subject to employment status, full-time equivalent (FTE) workload, and weekly standard hours. Please visit our website at https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/ to view a summary of benefits.

EEO/AA Statement
Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity and especially encourages applications by those from underrepresented groups. It is the University’s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Diversity Statement
Washington University is dedicated to building a diverse community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment – fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.