Postdoctoral Scholar, Neurobiology Research Unit
The Neurobiology Research Unit seeks a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to study basal ganglia mechanisms of learning and adaptive behavior using advanced neuroimaging and electrophysiology.
The Position
The Neurobiology Research Unit is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher interested in basal ganglia mechanisms of learning and adaptive behavior, focusing on dopamine and acetylcholine dynamics in the rodent striatum. We are using in-vivo 2-photon microscopy to observe neurochemical release during learning and reversals in virtual reality (for example, see Sarpong et al, Nature Comms. 2025), complemented by fiber photometry in free-moving animals, and in-vitro electrophysiology. Technical support for software engineering and molecular biology is available within the Unit. We are seeking an individual who is passionate about basic science questions relevant to normal and abnormal basal ganglia function.
About OIST
The Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University was established in 2011 to contribute to the development of science and technology worldwide and to serve as a hub of innovation in Okinawa. OIST is a dynamic new graduate university of science and technology in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan which offers a 5-year PhD program and brings together outstanding researchers from across the country and across disciplines to conduct cutting-edge scientific research.
The university is located on 85 hectares of protected forestland overlooking a beautiful shoreline and coral reefs. The campus is striking architecturally, and the facilities are outstanding. To facilitate multidisciplinary research, there are no academic departments. Outstanding resources and equipment are provided and managed to encourage easy access and collaboration.
English is the official language of the University, and the university research community is fully international, with more than 50 countries represented. OIST is rapidly gaining recognition in the worldwide academic community as a model for excellence in education and research, and our unwavering commitment to scientific and technological innovation is dedicated to generating progress that will fuel Okinawa's economic growth.
Requirements
Qualifications
Required
- PhD in Neuroscience
Preferred
- Background in basal ganglia physiology, learning theory, imaging or computational neuroscience
- Experience in analysis of behavioral and imaging or photometry data
Benefits
Benefits & Resources
- Relocation, housing and commuting allowances
- Annual paid leave and summer holidays
- Health insurance (Private School Mutual Aid)
- Welfare pension insurance (kousei-nenkin)
- Worker's accident compensation insurance (roudousha-saigai-hoshou-hoken)
- Access to Child Development Center
- Access to Schooling Options
- Language Education Resource Center (Daily Life Support in Okinawa)
- Remote Work System
- Disability Support
- LGBTQ+ Inclusion & Support Resources
Additional Info
Employment Details
- Job Type: Postdoc
- Employment Term: Full-time, fixed term appointment for 2 years. Contract initially with 6-month probationary period (inclusive). This contract may be renewed by taking into consideration the performance, conduct, and behavior of the Employee and OIST’s financial and other circumstances.
- Starting Date: As early as possible after 1 January 2027
- Working Hours: 9:00-17:30 (Discretionary)
- Holidays: Saturday, Sunday, National holidays, and Year-end and New Year holidays (Dec. 29 – Jan. 3)
- Leave: Annual Paid Holidays, Summer Leave, Sick Leave, and Special Leave
- Overtime: Discretionary Working Hours System: In the discretionary labor system for specialized work, the employee shall be deemed to have worked 7 hours 30 minutes per day.
Application Instructions
- How to Apply: Apply by submitting your application documents to: [email protected] (Please replace [at] with @ before using this email address)
- Required Documents: Cover letter (English), Curriculum vitae (English), Names and contact information of 2-3 referees, one of which should be a previous employer.
- Deadline: Applications will be accepted until all positions are filled.
Organizational Information
- Recruiting Organization: Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology School Corporation
- Disclaimer: OIST Graduate University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action educator and employer and is committed to increasing the diversity of its faculty, students and staff. Information provided by applicants or references will be kept confidential in accordance to the OIST Privacy Policy; documents will not be returned.
Skills & Keywords
Postdoctoral Scholar or Staff Scientist Algebraic Combinatorics and Fundamental Physics Unit
The successful candidate will develop independent and collaborative research in a growing group working across mathematics and theoretical physics.