Postdoctoral Scholar

Postdoctoral Scholar-Fixed Term

The research in Dr. Zhang's lab focuses on delineating the pathways that regulate normal brain hemodynamics and further determining how regulatory networks are perturbed in aging, development and other neurodegenerative diseases. We utilize a variety of approaches including optical imaging (spectroscopy, two-photon imaging, fiberphotometry), electrophysiology, molecular tools (optogenetics, DREADDs) and computational modeling to study these questions in mouse models. For more information about the lab and our research interests, please visit zhanglabmsu.github.io.

The responsibilities of this position include but are not limited to:

• Conducting independent and collaborative research projects
• Training and supervising graduate/undergraduate students in their research
• Contributing to publications, scientific presentations and grant proposals

The selected candidate will have extensive opportunities to publish, and access to exceptional resources to facilitate their independent research.

This is an off-date position funded for one year from date of hire with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal and satisfactory performance. The duties to be performed by this position require in-person presence in East Lansing, MI, and they are not compatible with remote work.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Doctorate - Vascular physiology

Ph.D. in biomedical engineering, physiology, neuroscience, biophysics, or a closely related field

Evidence of prior productive scientific work in the form of publications in peer-reviewed journals

Experience with animal surgery, optical imaging methods, and computational or quantitative analysis

Expertise aligned with the lab's research areas

Strong programming skills or animal surgery skills

Excellent and effective communication skills

Documented participation in programs that promote inclusion and multicultural perspectives and that foster trust in collaborative environments

Resume/CV

A list of three to five professional references and their contact information

Cover Letter

The University will provide reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities throughout the employment application process. To request an accommodation pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, complete the Resource Center for Persons with Disabilities contact form here: https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). Michigan State University is committed to recruiting and supporting a diverse student body, faculty, and administrative staff.

Review of applications begins on 06/16/2026.

Employees may work with or near human and/or animal blood and/or tissues; live animals; bio-hazardous chemicals and materials; viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens; radioactive materials; medical waste; and sharp implements.

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.