Postdoctoral Research Fellow Position in Behavioral

Postdoctoral Researcher

The Smiley Lab at the University of Michigan is seeking a motivated and independent Postdoctoral Researcher to join our laboratory, starting August 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 labs' 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.

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.

Location:

The University of Michigan offers an extraordinary intellectual environment, with world-class neuroscience, psychology, and biomedical research communities, extensive core facilities, and a vibrant culture of collaboration across disciplines. Located in Ann Arbor, Michigan a city consistently ranked among the best places to live in the you'll enjoy a dynamic, culturally rich community with excellent restaurants, music and arts, easy access to nature, and a welcoming, progressive atmosphere.

Postdocs will join a vibrant community of like-minded scientists in the Brain & Behavior area of the UM Psychology Department, as well as gain additional support through the Michigan Neuroscience Institute .

The salary range is $63,480 - $71,748. 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 August 1, 2026, however, the start date is flexible.

To learn more about LSA's Mission, Vision and Values, please visit lsa.umich.edu/strategic vision .

The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

Applications will begin to be reviewed one week after the posting opens and will remain open until the position is filled.

The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.