Postdoctoral Research Associate - McLaughlin lab

About the role

The Department of Integrative Physiology and Neuroscience (IPN) at Washington State University (WSU) invites you to apply for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in the Cannabis, Brain, & Development (CBD) Lab , located in Dr. Ryan McLaughlin's lab. As the incumbent, you will apply a multidisciplinary approach with rats to examine the long-term effects of prenatal cannabis exposure on corticostriatal circuit function and cognitive flexibility. Responsibilities include conducting behavioral neuroscience experiments-including vapor self-administration and operant conditioning tasks (such as attentional set-shifting and reversal learning)-performing stereotaxic surgeries, viral (AAV) injections, and optic fiber implants for fiber photometry recordings, and managing a rodent breeding colony. Preference will be given to candidates with a background in developmental neurobiology, cannabinoid pharmacology, and in vivo calcium imaging (fiber photometry). You should have experience or a strong desire to learn ex vivo electrophysiology. The postdoctoral researcher is also expected to demonstrate leadership within the lab, including mentoring graduate and undergraduate students. Benefits: WSU offers a comprehensive benefits package which includes paid sick and vacation leave; paid holidays; medical, dental, life and disability insurance package for employees and dependents; retirement; deferred compensation, optional supplemental retirement accounts. For additional information, please review the detailed Summary of Benefits offered by WSU for Faculty and Total Compensation . For information or questions about Benefits, please contact HRS Benefits at 509-335-4521. Additional Information: Monthly Salary: $5,186 - $5,862 | Commensurate with experience and education In accordance with RCW 49.58.110 , the above salary reflects the full salary range for this position. Individual placement within the range is based on the candidate's current experience, education, skills, and abilities related to the position. This is a full-time (100% FTE), temporary position. This position is overtime eligible. Appointment Duration: This is a temporary position expected to start on June 1, 2026 and end on December 31, 2027 . Renewal is dependent on the need for extension and/or if additional funding is secured to extend employment. Postdoctoral Requirements: For detailed information on eligibility for postdoctoral appointments, please visit: WSU/UAW Postdoctoral Collective Bargaining Agreement. Required Qualifications: An earned PhD in Neuroscience or other relevant discipline. Possess strong written and oral communication skills, demonstrate a record of accomplishments, and have less than five years of research experience since earning their doctoral degree. Leadership skills and an interest in mentoring students are required.