About the role
Dr. Sheet’s Laboratory in the Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Pharmacology, and the Stark Neurosciences Research Institute at Indiana University School of Medicine (IUSM) in Indianapolis is accepting applications for the position of Assistant Research Professor for Pharmacology & Toxicology. The candidate will conduct basic research in the neurobiology of pain, specifically investigating the role of medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) dynorphin-expressing circuits in the modulation of surgical and neuropathic pain states, in support of the NIH HEAL Initiative–funded project “Dissecting the role of mPFC dynorphin circuits in the modulation of different pain states” (1UF1NS132920).
They will also design and perform experiments using appropriate methodologies, including slice and in-vivo electrophysiology, glutamate uncaging/laser-scanning photo stimulation, optogenetics, chemo genetics, fiber photometry and single-cell calcium imaging, stereotaxic surgery, viral and retrograde tracing approaches, and sensory and affective pain behavioral assays. The candidate is expected to prepare manuscripts for peer-reviewed publication, presenting findings at national and international scientific meetings, and contributing to the preparation of research reports and grant materials. Training and mentoring graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and research staff and performing other services will be necessary to implement the research objectives of the laboratory, the department and the Stark Neurosciences Research Institute.
IU School of Medicine is committed to being a welcoming campus community and we seek candidates whose research, teaching, and community engagement efforts contribute to robust learning and working environments for all students, staff, and faculty. We invite individuals who will join us in our mission to improve health equity and well-being for all throughout the state of Indiana.
Indianapolis is the capital and most populous city in the State of Indiana. It is growing economically thanks to a strong corporate base anchored by the life sciences. Indiana is home to one of the nation’s largest concentrations of health sciences companies. Indianapolis has a sophisticated blend of charm and culture with a wonderful balance of business and leisure. The growing residential base is supported by rich amenities and quality of life – the city possesses a variety of professional sports, arts venues, and outdoor recreation areas. Residents of this dynamic city and surrounding suburbs enjoy leading educational systems and top-ranked universities paired with a diverse population. Indianapolis International Airport is a top-ranked international airport that has been named “Best Airport in North America” by Airports Council International for many years.
Basic Qualifications
A Ph.D. (or equivalent doctoral degree) in neuroscience, pharmacology, or a closely related biomedical discipline is the standard minimum requirement for an Assistant Research Professor position at Indiana University School of Medicine. The position additionally requires postdoctoral research training and demonstrated expertise in systems neuroscience, including in-vivo and ex-vivo electrophysiology, optogenetic and chemogenetic manipulation, in-vivo imaging, and rodent behavioral methods.
Department Contact for Questions
Maritza McCabe @ mccama@iu.edu
Additional Qualifications
Special Instructions
Priority Application Review Deadline
Expected Start Date
Posting Number
IUSM-02477-2026
Millions of jobs, with real people getting hired every day
Questions, answered
Click "Apply with JobAssist" – we tailor your resume and application to this role and submit it for your approval.
Yes. This role at Indiana University was screened before publishing – we confirmed the employer before listing it.
The employer didn't disclose a salary range for this listing. JobAssist shows pay whenever it's available.
This position can be done from anywhere, with no in-office requirement.
Yes – every application is tailored from your profile and this job's requirements, and you can review and edit before it's sent.