Postdoc Position Available/Memory Research Unit
The Memory Research Unit at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to investigate the circuit, synaptic, and systems-level mechanisms underlying memory stability, neural state transitions, and network reorganization.
Position Summary
The Memory Research Unit at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to investigate the circuit, synaptic, and systems-level mechanisms underlying memory stability, neural state transitions, and network reorganization.
Our research combines systems neuroscience, large-scale in vivo recording, imaging, and ultrastructural analysis to understand how brain function and memory are maintained despite dramatic physiological changes and structural remodeling. Current projects include artificial hibernation states, hippocampal memory engrams, neural state transitions, and large-scale synaptic remodeling.
The lab employs a broad range of approaches, including:
- In vivo electrophysiology (tetrodes, silicon probes)
- Calcium imaging
- Mouse behavior
- Viral and genetic tools
- Advanced light microscopy
- Volume electron microscopy
- Computational analysis of large-scale neural data
Recent work from the lab has examined how hippocampal memory representations remain stable despite extensive synapse elimination during artificial hibernation states (Lin et al., Science 2026).
Candidate Profile
We are particularly interested in candidates who demonstrate strong scientific ownership and intellectual independence. The ideal candidate is not only technically capable, but also actively engaged in:
- Reading and integrating literature
- Troubleshooting experimental problems
- Proposing new ideas and approaches
- Independently driving projects forward
- Contributing to an intellectually active research environment
We strongly value researchers who view science as a proactive and collaborative process rather than a task-based workflow.
Research Environment
OIST is a highly international and interdisciplinary graduate university where English is the official language. The university provides outstanding core facilities and infrastructure, including advanced microscopy, animal facilities, computational resources, and collaborative opportunities across disciplines.
The Memory Research Unit emphasizes:
- High scientific standards
- Close mentorship and intensive training
- Open scientific discussion
- Collaborative problem solving
- Intellectual curiosity and continuous learning
The lab environment is best suited for researchers who are excited by technically and conceptually challenging projects and who are eager to develop as independent scientists.
Requirements
Required Qualifications
- PhD in neuroscience, biology, or related experimental disciplines
- Strong interest in systems neuroscience and neural circuit function
- Fluency in spoken and written English
- Demonstrated research productivity
Preferred Experience
Experience in one or more of the following areas is desirable:
- In vivo electrophysiology
- Neural data analysis/programming
- Calcium imaging
- Mouse behavior
- Viral/genetic approaches
- Advanced microscopy
- Molecular and cellular biology, proteomics, and genome editing
Note: Prior experience in all techniques is not required. We value scientific curiosity, learning ability, and ownership mindset more than narrow technical specialization.
Benefits
Benefits & Resources
- Relocation, housing, and commuting allowances
- Annual paid leave and summer holidays
- Health insurance (Private School Mutual Aid)
- Welfare pension insurance (kousei-nenkin)
- Worker's accident compensation insurance (roudousha-saigai-hoshou-hoken)
- Access to Child Development Center and Schooling Options
- Language Education Resource Center (Daily Life Support in Okinawa)
- Remote Work System
- Disability Support and LGBTQ+ Inclusion & Support Resources
Additional Info
Compensation
Expected Annual Salary: 4.6M-5.9M yen (In accordance with the OIST Employee Compensation Regulations)
Application Instructions
Apply by emailing your Submission Documents to: [email protected]
Successful applicants will be selected after an initial screening based on the documents followed by a Zoom interview.
Disclaimer
OIST Graduate University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action educator and employer and is committed to increasing the diversity of its faculty, students and staff. Information provided by applicants or references will be kept confidential in accordance to the OIST Privacy Policy; documents will not be returned.
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