New

PostDoctoral Associate

University of Colorado
$60000.00-$64000.00
paid time off, tuition assistance
United States, Colorado, Boulder
Sep 15, 2026
Requisition Number: 74873 Location: Boulder, Colorado City Boulder State Colorado Employment Type: Research Faculty Schedule: Full-Time Posting Close Date: 17-Sep-2026 Date Posted: 14-Sep-2026 Close All Job Summary The Dombrovski Lab in the Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology at the University of Colorado Boulder is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate. The successful candidate will develop an independent research program investigating the molecular and developmental mechanisms that generate precise synaptic connectivity in the Drosophila brain. The postdoctoral researcher will design and lead projects combining genetics, molecular biology, imaging, and quantitative analysis to investigate how neurons acquire cell-type-specific molecular identities and form specific synaptic connections during development. The position offers the opportunity to pursue innovative questions in neural circuit assembly while contributing to the establishment of a new research laboratory. CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. Who We Are Dombrovski Lab: https://dombrovski-lab.org/ What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be Independent Research Design and lead an independent research project investigating molecular mechanisms of neural circuit assembly and synaptic specificity Develop experimental strategies combining genetics, molecular biology, imaging, and quantitative analysis Interpret experimental results and refine research directions Method Development Build upon and further optimize experimental methodologies developed in the lab Develop and implement new approaches for studying molecular diversity and connectivity in neural circuits Collaboration and Mentorship Collaborate with lab members and external collaborators Contribute to the intellectual environment of the laboratory Mentor undergraduate and graduate trainees when appropriate Communication of Research Prepare manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals Present research findings at seminars and scientific conferences What We Can Offer The salary range for this position is $60,000 - $64,000 annually depending on experience and qualifications. Up to $5,000 in relocation reimbursement may be available for qualified individuals. Benefits At the University of Colorado Boulder, we are committed to supporting the holistic health and well-being of our employees. Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance for you and your dependents; and an ECO Pass for local transit. As one of Boulder County's largest employers, CU Boulder offers an inspiring academic community and access to world-class outdoor recreation. In fact, CU Boulder has been named one of Forbes' America's Best Large Employers, ranking #4 among large employers in Colorado and #28 among universities nationwide. Explore additional perks and programs through the CU Advantage program. Be Statements Be ambitious. Be pioneering. Be Boulder. What We Require Ph.D. in neuroscience, molecular biology, genetics, developmental biology, or a related field by the start date What You Will Need Evidence of independent scientific thinking and critical analysis Strong publication record, including at least one first-author research paper (published or in the final stages of preparation) Ability to design experiments, interpret complex datasets, and drive research projects forward Strong written and verbal communication skills Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a research environment What We Would Like You to Have Experience working with Drosophila or other genetic model organisms Experience with genomics / single-cell data analysis methods (e.g., scRNA-seq analysis, bioinformatics workflows) Special Instructions To apply, please submit the following materials: Resume/CV Cover Letter: part of your cover letter should be a one-page statement describing previous research experience, evidence of independent and creative scientific thinking, and future research interests. During the application process you will need to enter contact information for three references. We will request letters of recommendation and additional materials, if needed, as the search progresses. If you are selected as the finalist, your degree will be verified by the CU Boulder Campus Human Resources department using an approved online vendor. If your degree was obtained outside of the United States, please submit a translated version (if applicable) as an optional attachment. Please apply by September 17th, 2026 for consideration. Note: Application materials will not be accepted via email. For consideration, please apply through CU Boulder Jobs. In compliance with the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, in any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.