Postdoctoral Scientist-Sarvestani Lab

About the role

The Sarvestani Lab at Cornell University’s Department of Neurobiology and Behavior seeks a Postdoctoral Scientist to join our research team. The lab focuses on understanding the fundamental mechanisms underlying visual and motor systems, integrating these with theories of embodied cognition.

Responsibilities

• Experimentally test fundamental relationships between the brain, body, and behavior using advanced techniques like multiphoton microscopy, electrophysiology, and motion capture.
• Contribute to projects exploring the role of motor experience in plasticity and error correction, the role of early motor experience in visual circuit development, and the role of proprioception and self-motion in visual perception.
• Work with tree shrews and rats to understand how moving bodies and perception are integrated.
• Collaborate with Dr. Sarvestani on developing more effective clinical interventions and advancing AI that reflects embodied experience.

Requirements

• A Ph.D. in neuroscience, bioengineering, or a related field of science.
• Advanced experience in coding and analysis of large brain and behavior datasets.
• Ability to learn quickly and work independently and as part of a team.
• High level of research integrity and motivation.
• Positive attitude with a problem-solving, resilient approach.
• Resourcefulness in overcoming challenges and adapting to a fast-paced environment.
• Willingness to participate in lab and departmental activities, mentor junior colleagues, and contribute to an inclusive and productive research climate.

Qualifications

• Programming in Python and/or Matlab.
• Electrophysiology, calcium imaging, microstimulation.
• Behavioral testing or quantification in animals.
• Lab animal husbandry and surgical approaches (cranial implants, intracranial injections).
• Histology and fluorescence imaging (vibratome, cryostat, microtome, antibody staining).
• Engineering (CAD/3D printing, microcontrollers, signal processing).

Skills

• Strong programming skills in Python and/or Matlab.
• Experience with electrophysiology, calcium imaging, and behavioral testing.
• Knowledge of histology and fluorescence imaging techniques.
• Ability to work with advanced engineering tools and microcontrollers.

Benefits

• A competitive compensation package with comprehensive health and welfare benefits.
• One-on-one mentorship with Dr. Sarvestani.
• Opportunity to work with both traditional rodent and exotic tree shrew models.
• Exposure to cutting-edge scientific research and opportunities for professional development.
• Authorship on independent and collaborative scientific publications.
• Opportunities to attend domestic conferences and departmental retreats.
• Participation in the vibrant community at the Cornell Department of Neurobiology & Behavior.

Pay

$70,000.00 (minimum) - $80,500.00 (midpoint) - $91,000.00 (maximum)

Schedule

Full-time, Monday through Friday.