Positions available

Postdoctoral Researchers

A postdoctoral research position is available in the Synapse Biology Unit at OIST in Okinawa, Japan (https://groups.oist.jp/sbu). The successful candidate will join a vibrant team studying basic principles of synaptic communication in brain circuit operations underlying animal behaviors down to exploring synaptic design in simple model networks, led by Dr. Yukiko Goda. The position is initially for one year and can be extended to 2 or more years based on performance and mutual agreement. 

Key Requirements:

Candidates should have a PhD in neuroscience or a related discipline. Prior experience in in vitro or in vivo electrophysiology, cutting-edge microscopy, and/or extensive expertise in cell and molecular biology will be an advantage. Peer-reviewed publications in quality journals are a must. We seek researchers who are highly enthusiastic, collaborative and creative thinkers..

Please submit the following documents to Dr. Yukiko Goda (yukiko.goda@oist.jp).

1. Cover letter

2. Curriculum vitae including names of 3 referees

3. Summary of research experience to date

4. Reasons for applying to the post (personal strengths, motivations, research perspectives, career aspirations)

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Technician

A technical staff position is available in the Synapse Biology Unit at OIST in Okinawa, Japan (https://groups.oist.jp/sbu). The successful candidate will join a vibrant team studying basic principles of synaptic communication in brain circuit operations underlying animal behaviors down to exploring synaptic design in simple model networks, led by Dr. Yukiko Goda. The position is initially for one year and can be extended to 2 or more years based on performance and mutual agreement. 

Our research employs a multifaceted approach, using electrophysiology, molecular biology, biochemistry and imaging to study synaptic networks at various levels, from cultures of rodent brain cells and acute rodent brain slices to intact brains. The postholder will assist in all aspects of the ongoing research in the laboratory. The postholder will be responsible for the care and breeding of transgenic mice and preparation of reagents and materials for tissue culture, and s/he will be involved with molecular biology experiments including cloning, PCR, isolation of nucleic acids, and viral vector preparation. The postholder will also be responsible for supervision of the general upkeep of the laboratory, including equipment maintenance and updating of inventories.

Key Requirements:

We seek an enthusiastic, highly organized, reliable and meticulous individual with excellent interpersonal and communication skills. The successful candidate will have a BS or a MS degree and experience of basic laboratory practices, including tissue culture, reagent preparation and basic molecular biology. Prior work/research experience in a biology research laboratory, familiarity with molecular biology techniques, and although not required, basic ability to communicate in Japanese would be an advantage.

Please submit the following documents to Dr. Yukiko Goda (yukiko.goda@oist.jp).

1. Cover letter

2. Curriculum vitae including names of 2 referees (3 preferred, including the current supervisor, if available)

3. Summary of research experience to date

4. Reasons for applying to the post (personal strengths, motivations, research perspectives, career aspirations)

OIST (www.oist.jp) offers a world-class research environment with an international research community and opportunities for interdisciplinary research. Research and teaching are conducted in English. The campus is situated in a beautiful subtropical setting in Okinawa, Japan, within 1-3 hour flight time from Tokyo, Shanghai, Seoul, Taiwan, and Hong Kong.