Postdoctoral Scholar, Neurobiology Research Unit
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.
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.
- Perform in-vivo two-photon imaging and/or fiber photometry experiments
- Design and implement behavioral tasks in virtual reality and/or conventional operant boxes
- Analyse behavioral and imaging data and draft manuscripts for publication
(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
Expected Annual Salary: 4.6M-5.9M yen
In accordance with the OIST Employee Compensation Regulations
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
- Cover letter (English)
- Curriculum vitae (English)
- Names and contact information of 2-3 referees, one of which should be a previous employer
* Please be sure to indicate where you first saw the job advertisement.
How to Apply:
Apply by submitting your application documents to:
wickens[at]oist.jp (Please replace [at] with @ before using this email address)
- 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.
- Recruiting Organization: Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology School Corporation
- Prevention of Passive Smoking: No smoking indoors
- Please view our policy for rules on external professional activities: Rules for Concurrent Appointment.
- Further details about the University can be viewed on our website.
- 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
- 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 work hours
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.
Thank you for your application. Please note that only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.