How to Apply
A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your CV. The cover letter should specifically address why you are interested in this position and how your experience and skills directly relate to the responsibilities and qualifications of this position and include a brief statement of research areas and the names of three references.. The Michigan Neuroscience Institute is an inclusive workplace that encourages individuals from diverse backgrounds and with diverse experiences to apply.
Please visit: https://medicine.umich.edu/dept/michigan-neuroscience-institute for more information about the Institute.
Who We Are
The Allada Lab investigates fundamental mechanisms of sleep and circadian rhythms and how their disruption contributes to neurodegenerative, neuropsychiatric, and neurodevelopmental disorders. Our work spans Drosophila, mouse, and human systems, combining high-throughput genetics, single-cell and spatial transcriptomics, neurophysiology, and advanced computational approaches. The lab is embedded within the Michigan Neuroscience Institute (MNI) - a cross-campus research community founded in 1955 that unites more than 170 faculty to advance discovery across molecular, cellular, systems, and computational neuroscience. This environment provides exceptional opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, access to cutting-edge cores, and engagement with a vibrant neuroscience community.
Mission Statement
Michigan Medicine improves the health of patients, populations and communities through excellence in education, patient care, community service, research and technology development, and through leadership activities in Michigan, nationally and internationally. Our mission is guided by our Strategic Principles and has three critical components; patient care, education and research that together enhance our contribution to society.
Job Summary
The Allada Laboratory (alladalab.org) at the Michigan Neuroscience Institute seeks a highly motivated postdoctoral research fellow to investigate the molecular and circuit mechanisms underlying sleep homeostasis using Drosophila. The successful candidate will apply advanced approaches in Drosophila genetics, molecular biology, RNA sequencing, FACS, biochemistry, confocal imaging, behavioral neuroscience, and multi-omic data analysis.
Candidates should possess strong technical expertise in Drosophila genetics and molecular biology and demonstrate the ability to design, execute, troubleshoot, and interpret complex experiments. The position requires a highly productive, goal-oriented scientist who takes initiative, operates effectively in a fast-paced research environment, and can drive projects forward with a high degree of scientific ownership and accountability.
The successful candidate must demonstrate excellent written and oral communication skills, effectively interact with computational and experimental collaborators, and establish organized and reproducible workflows for experimental and data analysis pipelines. The position also requires the ability to incorporate constructive feedback effectively, adapt to evolving project priorities, and communicate scientific findings clearly to both internal and external audiences through presentations and peer-reviewed publications.
Required Qualifications*
- Ph.D. in neuroscience, genetics, molecular biology, or a closely related field.
- Demonstrated expertise in Drosophila genetics and molecular biology techniques.
- Strong record of scientific productivity, including peer-reviewed publications and evidence of driving projects toward completion.
- Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and maintain strong organizational skills in a collaborative research environment.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Demonstrated ability to work effectively within collaborative teams, integrate constructive feedback, and continuously improve scientific and technical performance.
- Experience with one or more of the following is preferred: RNA-sequencing, FACS, confocal imaging, behavioral neuroscience, bioinformatics, or multi-omic data analysis.
Desired Qualifications*
- Highly productive and goal-oriented with strong scientific initiative.
- Demonstrates accountability, follow-through, and attention to detail.
- Comfortable operating independently while contributing effectively within collaborative teams.
- Receptive to mentorship and constructive feedback with a commitment to continuous growth and scientific rigor.
Why Join Michigan Medicine?
Michigan Medicine is one of the largest health care complexes in the world and has been the site of many groundbreaking medical and technological advancements since the opening of the U-M Medical School in 1850. Michigan Medicine is comprised of over 30,000 employees and our vision is to attract, inspire, and develop outstanding people in medicine, sciences, and healthcare to become one of the world?s most distinguished academic health systems. In some way, great or small, every person here helps to advance this world-class institution. Work at Michigan Medicine and become a victor for the greater good.
What Benefits can you Look Forward to?
- Excellent medical, dental and vision coverage effective on your very first day
- 2:1 Match on retirement savings
Modes of Work
Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.
Background Screening
Michigan Medicine conducts background screening and pre-employment drug testing on job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent job offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background screenings. Background screenings are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Report Act. Pre-employment drug testing applies to all selected candidates, including new or additional faculty and staff appointments, as well as transfers from other U-M campuses.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.