Job Details

PostDoctoral Associate

Position Number: 7031399
Location: Boulder, CO
Position Type: Laboratory and Research

PostDoctoral Associate

Requisition Number: 70753
Location: Boulder Colorado
Employment Type: Research Faculty
Schedule: Full Time
Posting Close Date: 27-Apr-2026
Date Posted:

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 You Should Know

We are looking to fill this position for a July 1, 2026 start date

What We Can Offer

The salary range for this position is $60,000 - $64,000 annually depending on experience and qualifications.
A $2000 relocation payment is offered 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. 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

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 April 27th, 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.

To apply, visit https://jobs.colorado.edu/jobs/JobDetail/PostDoctoral-Associate/70753