Postdoctoral Fellow in Neurobiology (Ginty Lab)

Position

Details

Title Postdoctoral Fellow in Neurobiology (Ginty Lab) School Harvard Medical School Department/Area Neurobiology Position Description

The Ginty Laboratory in the Department of Neurobiology at Harvard Medical School utilizes mouse genetics, molecular biology, histological and behavioral approaches and electrophysiology to understand neurobiological mechanisms of touch and pain. We are seeking a motivated and creative Postdoctoral Scientist to join our dynamic, cross-disciplinary team. This role focuses on understanding how the somatosensory system has evolved to detect, process, and relay information from the body's surfaces into the central nervous system. The overarching goal is to leverage cutting-edge molecular data, tools, and approaches to describe the diversity of somatosensory neuron repertoires across mice and other mammals, in part by generating new tools for genetic access to these cell-types for anatomical, physiological, and behavioral characterization. The position involves designing and executing experiments, overseeing undergraduate researchers, and collaborating closely with the PI and other lab members in a fast-paced, discovery-driven environment.

Responsibilities include:

• Lead independent research projects focused on the somatosensory system
• Conduct experiments in mice and rat models, including electrophysiology, live imaging, and behavioral studies
• Apply molecular biology techniques including PCR, cloning, and genotyping
• Perform molecular profiling in a cell-type-specific manner
• Supervise undergraduate trainees and contribute to an open, collaborative lab culture
• Document and present findings in internal meetings and scientific publications

Basic Qualifications

• PhD degree in neurobiology or a related field
• Prior experience with bioinformatic analyses, viral engineering, neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, and behavioral assays
• Proficiency in molecular biology techniques such as cloning, PCR, and genotyping
• A strong sense of independence, with the ability to manage and lead scientific projects autonomously

Additional Qualifications

If visa sponsorship is needed, Harvard retains the discretion to determine which visa status is appropriate and whether a visa sponsorship application will ultimately be submitted, including payment of any applicable fees.

Special Instructions

Required documents:

• CV
• Research summary of PhD work.
• Cover letter describing your interest in the lab and initial ideas for new research directions or projects you could undertake in the lab.
• A NOTE with the names and contact information for two people who have agreed to serve as a reference.

Please submit application documents through the ARIeS portal. Applications will be considered July 31, 2026. Selected candidates will be invited for in-person interviews involving a research presentation on past work.

Expected Dates:

• Application deadline: July 31, 2026.
• Start date: The position is expected to start on or around October 1, 2026 with some flexibility.
• Duration: This is a one-year term position from the date of hire, with the possibility of extension, contingent upon work performance, business need, and continued funding to support the position.

Salary and Benefits:

This position is salaried and benefits eligible. Information regarding postdoctoral fellow salary, which is determined by the number of years post PhD, and benefits can be found at https://postdoc.hms.harvard.edu/guidelines.

With this appointment, you are represented by the Harvard Academic Workers (HAW) - UAW for purposes of collective bargaining and matters affecting your compensation and working conditions.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, sex, ethnicity, color, national origin, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy.

Contact Information

David Ginty, PhD

Contact Email david_ginty@hms.harvard.edu Salary Range

This position is salaried and benefits-eligible. Information regarding postdoctoral fellow salary, which is determined by the number of years post-PhD, and benefits can be found at https://postdoc.hms.harvard.edu/guidelines.

Minimum Number of References Required 2 Maximum Number of References Allowed Keywords

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

Applicant Documents

Required Documents

• Curriculum Vitae
• Cover Letter
• Statement of Research
• List of References

Optional Documents