Post-Doctoral Associate in Chemosensory Neuroscience in Social Insects - University of Florida

Dr. Yan’s lab has broad interest in physiological, neural, behavioral plasticity in eusocial insects. He and his colleagues developed the genetic tools in ants and discovered neural plasticity in the development of insect olfactory system. Details of Dr. Yan's lab, research projects, and recent publications can be found in the links at: https://biology.ufl.edu/people/faculty/.

The selected post-doctoral associate will study olfactory development and olfactory-mediated social behavior in ants.  Research projects may involve but not limited to:

1. Developmental plasticity of olfactory neurons that express expanded number of odorant receptors;
2. Genetic and epigenetic mechanisms underlying neural development and neural plasticity;
3. Chemosensory-mediated social communication and behavior.

UF is the state’s oldest, largest, and most comprehensive land grant university with an enrollment of over 50,000 students and was ranked 6^th in the country among public universities (US News and World Report 2023 rankings), and 1^st among public institutions in the Wall Street Journal 2023 survey. UF is located in Gainesville, a city of approximately 150,000 residents in North-Central Florida, 50 miles from the Gulf of Mexico, and 67 miles from the Atlantic Ocean, and within a 2-hour drive to large metropolitan areas (Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville). The beautiful climate and extensive nearby parks and recreational areas afford year-round outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and nature photography. UF’s large college sports programs, museums, and performing arts center support a range of activities and cultural events for residents to enjoy. Alachua County schools are highly rated and offer a variety of programs including magnet schools and an international baccalaureate program. Learn more about what Gainesville has to offer at Visit Gainesville.

The salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, and the compensation includes a full benefits package.

Ph.D. in Cellular/Molecular Neuroscience and Genetics.

Successful candidates should have a Ph.D. in Cellular/Molecular Neuroscience and Genetics. Candidates with prior research experience in genetic model systems, such as fruit flies, are highly encouraged to apply. This position will be initially awarded for one year, and, contingent upon strong performance and conduct and availability of funds, may be renewed for up to three years.

For full consideration, applications must be submitted online. Click on Apply Now at the top of this posting.

A complete application includes (1) a letter of application summarizing the applicant's qualifications, interests, and suitability for the position, (2) a complete curriculum vitae, (3) a statement on research goals, and (4) the names and email addresses of three references must be provided. An email will be sent to your references, requesting them to upload their confidential letter to the submission packet.

Applications will be reviewed immediately, and the position will remain open until filled. Only complete applications will be reviewed at this time.

All candidates for employment are subject to a pre-employment screening which includes a review of criminal records, reference checks, and verification of education.

The selected candidate will be required to provide an official transcript to the hiring department upon hire. A transcript will not be considered “official” if a designation of “Issued to Student” is visible. Degrees earned from an educational institution outside of the United States require evaluation by a professional credentialing service provider approved by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES), which can be found at http://www.naces.org/.

The University of Florida is an equal opportunity institution dedicated to building a broadly diverse and inclusive faculty and staff. Searches are conducted in accordance with Florida's Sunshine Law. If an accommodation due to disability is needed in order to apply for this position, please call (352) 392-2477 or the Florida Relay System at (800) 955-8771 (TDD).

The Department of Biology is committed to promoting an environment that welcomes all abilities, classes, ethnicities/races, gender identities and expressions. We particularly welcome applicants who can contribute to such an environment through their scholarship, teaching, mentoring, and professional service.