Postdoctoral Research Associate, Department of Basic Medical Sciences (College of Medicine-Phoenix)

Posting Number req26994

Department: COM Phx Basic Medical Sci

Department Website Link: College of Medicine-Phoenix

Location: Greater Phoenix Area

Address: 475 N. 5th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85004 USA

Position Highlights

The Qiu Lab in the Department of Basic Medical Sciences seeks a motivated researcher to join our team studying the neural circuit mechanisms of behavior, such as chronic pain and the biological basis of neuromodulatory therapies for chronic pain. The position involves conducting experiments using immunohistochemistry, confocal imaging, whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiology, and mouse tissue processing to investigate how neural circuits, synaptic physiology, and neuroinflammatory pathways contribute to pain modulation.

Candidates should hold a Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Biomedical Sciences, Physiology, or broadly related to biomedical research with research emphasis, or a related field. Required qualifications include research experience in at least one of the following areas: electrophysiology, imaging, immunohistochemistry, neuroanatomy, or molecular biology. Preferred skills include patch-clamp recordings, experience with neuromodulation or pain research, and proficiency with imaging or data-analysis software. Strong communication skills, the ability to work independently and collaboratively. Visa sponsorship is available for this position.

Outstanding U of A benefits

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more! The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Conduct immunohistochemistry staining to assess brain pathological changes in mouse models;
• Whole cell patch clamp electrophysiology recording in mouse brain slices;
• Molecular and cellular assays relevant to neuroinflammation and neural plasticity.
• Conduct advanced, multi-disciplinary research in neuroscience under the direction of the principal investigator, Dr. Qiu.
• Develop, design, and conduct complex research projects.
• Formulate research methods, develop research criteria, and perform scientific data collection and analysis using independent judgment.
• Foster collaborations within the Department and with other units across the University.
• Present results at laboratory meetings and conferences.
• Prepare manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals.
• Participate in grant writing, including generating preliminary data, submitting grant applications, and preparing progress reports.
• Develop and implement protocols as dictated by experimental results.
• Assist with supervision of laboratory staff.
• Contribute to daily lab operations.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Excellent laboratory and analytical skills and commitment to scientific excellence and innovation.
• Knowledge of statistics and data analysis and interpretation.
• Ability to conduct research independently and within a team.
• Ability to communicate professionally in a clear, concise manner orally and in writing.
• Knowledge of grant writing and manuscript preparation.

Minimum Qualifications

PhD in Neuroscience, Medicine, Psychology, or related field of study required.

Preferred Qualifications

Track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals. Interest in the neural mechanisms underlying behavior, such as chronic pain. Experience in imaging or electrophysiology.

FLSA

Exempt

Full Time/Part Time

Full Time

Number of Hours Worked per Week: 40

Job FTE: 1.0

Work Calendar: Fiscal

Job Category: Research

Benefits Eligible: Yes - Full Benefits

Rate of Pay

NIH salary guidelines, Depends on Experience

Compensation Type: salary at 1.0 full-time equivalency (FTE)

Type of criminal background check required

Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)

Number of Vacancies: 1

Target Hire Date: 9/4/2026

Expected End Date: null

Contact Information for Candidates

Office of Human Resources, Talent Acquisition

Email: talent@arizona.edu

Open Date: 9/4/2026

Open Until Filled: Yes

Documents Needed to Apply

• Curriculum Vitae (CV) and Cover Letter

Special Instructions to Applicant

Application: The online application should be completed in its entirety. Blank or missed information may be considered an incomplete submission.

Cover Letter: Should clearly indicate how your skills and professional employment experience meet the Minimum and the Preferred qualifications (if applicable).

Notice of Availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report

In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act (Clery Act), each year the University of Arizona releases an Annual Security Report (ASR) for each of the University’s campuses. These reports disclose information including Clery crime statistics for the previous three calendar years and policies, procedures, and programs the University uses to keep students and employees safe, including how to report crimes or other emergencies and resources for crime victims. As a campus with residential housing facilities, the Main Campus ASR also includes a combined Annual Fire Safety report with information on fire statistics and fire safety systems, policies, and procedures. Paper copies of the Reports can be obtained by contacting the University Compliance Office at cleryact@arizona.edu.