Postdoctoral Scientist - Aso Lab

Summary:

We have an outstanding opportunity for a Postdoctoral Scientist to join the Aso Lab at the Janelia Research Campus. The Aso Lab is a team of interdisciplinary scientists investigating the mechanisms of learning by studying the neural circuits of the mushroom body in Drosophila and bumblebees as model systems. Our research integrates genetic tools, high-throughput behavioral analysis, EM connectomics, expansion microscopy, mass spectrometry, calcium imaging, and other advanced methodologies to elucidate how complex cognitive behaviors arise from distributed memory systems and diverse plasticity rules. Learn more about the Aso lab here . View our publications here .

The anticipated start date for this position is Spring-Summer 2026.

About the Role:

In this position, you will contribute to projects aimed at uncovering the circuit processes that integrate memories to guide learning and navigational behaviors and the molecular mechanisms underlying diverse plasticity rules across mushroom body compartments in Drosophila, and the development of new tools for studying bumblebee brains, including transgenic lines, behavioral assays, and connectome.

The bumblebee project focuses on understanding their advanced cognitive abilities, such as observational learning and cross-modal object recognition. This position is ideal for experimentalists who are passionate about mechanistic insights into cognitive behavior and eager to develop innovative methods.

Application Instructions:

Please include the following items as part of your application:

(1) A cover letter of up to 4 pages to explain the significance of your previous studies, how you contributed to them, your core scientific interests and a proposal for a potential project in Aso Lab.

(2) A current curriculum vitae and the names and contact information for 3 references

(3) A publication list

What we provide:

• The opportunity to lead a project addressing fundamental questions in neuroscience

• A collaborative lab environment with strong support for your research

• A lab led by a bench scientist who values curiosity, teamwork, creativity, independence, and personal growth

• Access to state-of-the-art equipment and core facilities

• Opportunities to collaborate across disciplines and learn new methods

• Strong administrative support

• Generous and stable research funding from HHMI

• Competitive compensation, comprehensive health and wellness benefits, and visa sponsorship

• On-site housing, childcare, and additional resources to support work–life balance

What you'll do:

• Design and lead your own project by formulating key scientific questions, developing experimental approaches, and conducting experiments using Drosophila or bumblebees

• Analyze results and present research findings at lab meetings, seminars, and conferences

• Stay current with the scientific literature to refine experimental approaches and integrate new concepts

• Mentor students and junior researchers

• Collaborates closely with lab members, facility staff, and research partners.

What you bring:

• A PhD in neuroscience or related field of the life sciences. A PhD in engineering/computation are also acceptable, depending on your skills and experience.

• A passion and persistence to explore mechanisms of learning

• The ability to design, execute, and analyze complex experiments

• Excellent communication skills with the ability to present and discuss findings clearly in diverse settings.

• Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to tackle challenges creatively Excellent organizational and time management skills.

• A flexible and adaptive approach, willing to learn new techniques, share expertise, and contribute to the collective success of the team.

• Ability to work successfully within a collaborative and congenial environment.

Physical Requirements

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet).

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job’s principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word “may,” the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are “essential functions” of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Compensation:

A Postdoc 00 (0 to 1 year research experience after obtaining a PhD) is compensated at a rate of $74,200.00 annually at HHMI's Janelia Research Campus.

Pay Type:

Annual

HHMI’s salary structure is developed based on relevant job market data. HHMI considers a candidate's education, previous experiences, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal consistency when making job offers. Typically, a new hire for this position in this location is compensated between the minimum and the midpoint of the salary range.

#LI-BG1