Postdoctoral Fellow - Comparative Medicine

About the role

The laboratory of Dr. Hopkins investigates genetic and non-genetic influences on individual and phylogenetic variation in cognition and the brain. Work involves testing nonhuman primates on a variety of cognitive functions using automated and manual testing systems, and applying neuroimaging techniques such as structural magnetic resonance imaging, diffusion tensor imaging, resting‑state functional MRI, and positron emission tomography to assess anatomical and functional brain organization. Current projects focus on mechanisms that influence the neurobiology of age‑related cognitive change in nonhuman primates, biomarker studies of neurodegeneration across primate species, and the development of 2D cell cultures and 3D organoids in multiple nonhuman primate species for use as alternative model systems to study primate brain aging and neurodegeneration. Trainees also acquire skills in neuropathological analyses of postmortem brain tissues. All activities are conducted in compliance with institutional policies, ethical research standards, and applicable federal and state regulations.

Responsibilities

• Test nonhuman primates on cognitive functions using automated and manual testing systems.
• Acquire and analyze neuroimaging data (structural MRI, DTI, resting‑state fMRI, PET).
• Investigate mechanisms underlying age‑related cognitive change and neurodegeneration biomarkers in multiple primate species.
• Develop and maintain 2D cell cultures and 3D organoids from nonhuman primate species.
• Apply these model systems to address research questions on primate brain aging and neurodegeneration.
• Perform neuropathological analyses of postmortem brain tissues.
• Ensure compliance with institutional policies, ethical standards, and federal/state regulations.

Learning Objectives

• Develop expertise in the application and use of a variety of neuroimaging tools across different imaging modalities.
• Master statistical analyses for neuroimaging and behavior data measured on various scales of measurement.

Requirements

• PhD in neuroscience, psychology, or a related discipline.
• Experience developing and using 2D cell cultures and/or organoids (required).
• Previous work with nonhuman primates and experience with post‑image analysis tools in neuroimaging (desirable).

Pay

Salary range: $64,000 to $76,000 per year, depending on years of postgraduate experience.

Benefits

• Medical insurance
• Dental insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plans
• Tuition benefits
• Educational opportunities
• Individual and team recognition programs

Offsite work arrangements are subject to approval and may be modified or revoked at any time based on business needs, performance considerations, or regulatory requirements.

This position may involve maintaining the security and integrity of critical infrastructure (as defined in Texas Business and Commerce Code §113.001(2)), requiring routine reviews and screening; satisfying and maintaining these requirements is a condition of hire and continued employment.