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. The research integrates systems neuroscience, large-scale in vivo recording, imaging, and ultrastructural analysis to study how brain function and memory persist through dramatic physiological and structural remodeling (e.g., artificial hibernation states, hippocampal memory engrams, large-scale synaptic remodeling).
Designation
Postdoctoral Researcher (Postdoc)
Quick Overview
| Parameter | Details |
| Position Title | Postdoctoral Researcher – Memory Research Unit |
| Institution | Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University |
| Reporting To | Professor Kazumasa Z. Tanaka |
| Job Type / Term | Full-time, Fixed-term (2-year contract with a 6-month probationary period, renewable based on performance) |
| Expected Salary | ¥4,600,000 – ¥5,900,000 / year (in accordance with OIST Compensation Regulations) |
| Starting Date | As early as possible after October 2026 |
| Working Hours | 9:00 – 17:30 (Discretionary labor system for specialized work; deemed 7.5 hours/day) |
| Application Deadline | September 30, 2026 (Position will close once filled) |
Research Area
- Primary Field: Systems Neuroscience & Neural Circuit Function
- Focus Areas:
- Mechanisms underlying memory stability and hippocampal memory engrams
- Neural state transitions (including artificial hibernation states)
- Network reorganization and large-scale synaptic remodeling
- In vivo electrophysiology, calcium imaging, volume electron microscopy, and computational analysis
Location
Main Campus:
Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST)
1919-1 Tancha, Onna-son, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa 904-0495, Japan
Eligibility & Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
- Education: Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Biology, or a related experimental discipline.
- Research Interest: Strong passion for systems neuroscience and neural circuit function.
- Communication: Fluency in spoken and written English (official language of OIST).
- Track Record: Demonstrated research productivity and strong scientific ownership/intellectual independence.
Preferred / Desirable Skills (experience in one or more):
- In vivo electrophysiology (tetrodes, silicon probes)
- Neural data analysis / scientific programming
- Calcium imaging & advanced light microscopy
- Mouse behavioral assays
- Viral/genetic approaches, molecular/cellular biology, proteomics, and genome editing
Job Description & Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will be expected to:
- Lead, design, and execute independent research projects.
- Collect, process, and computationally interpret experimental data.
- Actively engage in literature integration, troubleshooting, and proposing novel scientific approaches.
- Prepare manuscripts for high-impact publication and present findings at international conferences.
- Mentor junior lab members and graduate students when appropriate.
- Contribute collaboratively to daily laboratory operations.
Benefits & Support
- Allowances: Relocation, housing, and commuting allowances.
- Insurance & Welfare: Health insurance (Private School Mutual Aid), Welfare pension insurance (kousei-nenkin), and Worker’s accident compensation insurance.
- Leave: Annual paid leave, summer holidays, sick leave, and special leave.
- Campus Resources: On-campus Child Development Center (preschool/daycare), Language Education Resource Center, Ganjuu Wellbeing Service, and dedicated Postdoctoral Career Development Alliance (PCDA).
How to Apply
Required Application Documents (PDF format):
- Cover Letter: Detailing your research interests, background, and motivation.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Including a full list of publications.
- Representative Paper: PDF of one first-author original research article (or bioRxiv preprint) along with a brief statement (up to 300 words) explaining your specific contributions.
- References: Contact information for 2–3 academic referees.
- Note: Please state where you first saw the job advertisement.
Submission Instructions:
Send your application package via email to:
- Email:
kazumasa.tanaka@oist.jp
Selection will proceed via initial document screening followed by an online Zoom interview.
Last Date to Apply
September 30, 2026
(Applications are reviewed continuously and the listing will close once the position is filled).
