POSTDOCTORAL ASSOCIATE

School of Medicine Established in 1930, Duke University School of Medicine is the youngest of the nation’s top medical schools. Ranked sixth among medical schools in the nation, the School takes pride in being an inclusive community of outstanding learners, investigators, clinicians, and staff where interdisciplinary collaboration is embraced and great ideas accelerate translation of fundamental scientific discoveries to improve human health locally and around the globe. Composed of more than 2,500 faculty physicians and researchers, more than 1,300 students, and more than 6,000 staff, the Duke University School of Medicine along with the Duke University School of Nursing, Duke University Health System and the Private Diagnostic Clinic (PDC) comprise Duke Health. a world-class academic medical center. The Health System encompasses Duke University Hospital, Duke Regional Hospital, Duke Raleigh Hospital, Duke Primary Care, Duke Home and Hospice, Duke Health and Wellness, and multiple affiliations.

DUKE UNIVERSITY 

Durham, NC, USA 

Description: 

An opportunity exists to join our research group in human affect and pain neuroscience (https://anesthesiology.duke.edu/?page_id=848361). We are interested in central nervous system processes and alterations in individuals with chronic pain, specifically pertaining to 1) brain reward systems and behavior, 2) brain network structural and functional alterations, 3) spinal cord structural and functional alterations, and 4) the effects of opioids and other medications on the central nervous system, chronic pain experience, and behavior. 

Our goal is to contribute impactful data for increased understanding of the mechanisms underlying and contributing to chronic pain by studying the central nervous system in humans (with and without chronic pain) and its relationship to other body systems. Through our research we hope to provide novel and fundamental knowledge for improved and targeted treatments for individuals suffering with chronic pain. 

Presently we have active clinical research projects studying: 

• the relationship between brain reward systems and behavior in chronic pain 

• alterations in cervical spinal cord structure and function in chronic pain 

• neurophysiological effects of opioid medications in chronic pain 

All of these projects use a combination of methods including neuroimaging, quantitative sensory testing, and clinical/behavioral testing and questionnaires. 

We seek a highly-motivated individual eager to conduct clinical research studies, analyze data, and create high-quality first-author publications related to the projects listed above in a supportive environment to join our team. A PhD degree is required with training in neuroscience, human physiology, psychology, pharmacology, and/or a related field. Experience with imaging (MRI / fMRI or other) data collection and analysis, animal or human clinical research, and neuroanatomy is required. The candidate will work in a strong interdisciplinary and collaborative environment at Duke University and Duke Medical Center. 

The anticipated start date for this position is no earlier than January 1, 2023. 

For consideration submit a letter of interest, CV, and the names and contact information of three professional references as a .pdf file attachment to: 

Katherine Martucci, Ph.D. 

Assistant Professor of Anesthesiology katherine.martucci@duke.edu 

Duke University is an equal opportunity / affirmative action employer.

Minimum Qualifications
Education

See job description for education requirements.

Experience

See job description for requirements.

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