Postdoctoral Associate

The Shin Lab at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech is seeking a highly motivated and creative Postdoctoral Associate to join our team. Our research focuses on thalamo-hippocampal circuits underlying social aggression and pain regulation, with the goal of uncovering novel mechanisms that shape complex behaviors. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals passionate about systems and circuit neuroscience, offering a stimulating and collaborative environment, cutting-edge tools, and strong mentorship for scientific and career development.
Recent highlights from the Shin Lab:
• https://news.vt.edu/articles/2025/07/research_fralinbiomed_shinR01_mmdd.html
• https://news.vt.edu/articles/2023/11/research_fbri_shinstress_1123.html

Responsibilities:
• Lead an independent research project using cutting-edge approaches in whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiology, in vivo calcium imaging, and animal behavioral tests.
• Employ advanced neural circuit dissection methods (e.g., optogenetics, chemogenetics, stereotaxic viral delivery).
• Analyze and interpret complex datasets and contribute to conceptual advances in the field.
• Draft and publish high-impact papers and pursue fellowship opportunities.

• Ph.D. in neuroscience or related discipline. PhD must be awarded no more than four years prior to the effective date of appointment with a minimum of one year eligibility remaining.
• Strong background in in vivo behavioral assays, electrophysiology, and/or imaging techniques.
• Solid publication record in peer-reviewed journals.
• Experience with stereotaxic surgery and circuit-level manipulations is highly desirable.
• Communication skills the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

Exempt: Not eligible for overtime

Restricted

Commensurate with Experience

40+

8/8/2025

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including the Innovation Campus in Northern Virginia; the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke; sites in Newport News and Richmond; and numerous Extension offices and research centers. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $500 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance.  These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.