"RESEARCH FELLOW"

The Smiley Lab at the University of Michigan is seeking a motivated and independent Postdoctoral Researcher to join our laboratory, starting January 2026 (start date flexible). Our lab investigates the neuroendocrine mechanisms underlying parental behavior, with a particular focus on how the hormones associated with parenting modulate sensory processing of offspring vocal cues. This position offers a unique opportunity to not only conduct cutting-edge in vivo electrophysiology experiments, but also to play a central role in establishing this technique from the ground up in a new lab environment. Postdocs in the lab will be encouraged to apply for independent funding to support their career development. The PI and other lab members are committed to providing mentorship in neuroendocrinology, behavioral paradigms, technical training, and grant/fellowship writing, with guidance tailored to the postdoc’s long-term career goals and a strong emphasis on supporting their transition to the next career stage.

Primary responsibilities include:

• Lead the execution of one of our NIH funded projects: testing whether hormones are required for neural responses to offspring begging calls in zebra finches, using pharmacological manipulations and in vivo extracellular electrophysiology.
• Establish, optimize, and maintain an in vivo electrophysiology system (including ordering and configuring equipment, troubleshooting hardware/software, and piloting experimental protocols).
• Design, conduct, and analyze electrophysiological experiments in awake, behaving animals.
• Supervise and mentor junior trainees, including graduate and undergraduate students, in technical methods and experimental design.
• Present research findings at lab meetings, conferences, and through peer-reviewed publications.
• Develop independent research directions and contribute to future grant proposals that build upon and extend the lab’s core areas of expertise.
• Contribute to the collaborative, supportive environment of a new and growing lab.

The fellow is expected to have:

• Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Biology, Psychology, or a related field by the start date.
• Hands-on experience with in vivo electrophysiology (single-unit, multi-unit, or related approaches) in animal models.
• Strong technical skills in setting up and troubleshooting complex experimental systems.
• Proficiency in programming and data analysis (e.g., MATLAB, Python).
• Demonstrated ability to independently design, conduct, and analyze experiments.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Applicants are expected to have met all doctoral requirements before the start of the fellowship.

Preference will be given to applicants who have:

• Previous experience with neuroendocrinology, hormone manipulation, or sensory neurobiology.
• Experience with custom hardware/electrode building (e.g., microdrives, tetrodes, cannulation systems).
• Experience working with avian animal model systems
• A collaborative mindset, with enthusiasm for contributing to a new laboratory setup and culture.
• Interest in mentoring and training students in experimental neuroscience.
• Strong motivation to develop independent research directions and pursue external funding opportunities that prepare for a future independent career.

The salary range is $62,232 - $67,824. Please note a higher salary may be offered based on equity and the selected candidate's experience.

This is a 12-month term-limited position with the possibility of renewal. The anticipated start date is January 1, 2026, however, the start date can be flexible.

Interested applicants, please submit as one PDF document: (1) a letter of interest; (2) personal statement regarding research interests, career goals, and experience; (3) a curriculum vitae; (4) a writing sample (for example, a published peer-reviewed manuscript or manuscript in preparation for peer review); and (5) contact information for two or three references who can supply a letter of recommendation.

Questions about the position can be sent to the PI (Dr. Kristina Smiley) at kosmiley@umich.edu.