Job Description

The Smith lab at the University of Minnesota is seeking a motivated and talented postdoctoral researcher to employ optical approaches to study the mechanisms of cortical network formation in the developing brain. We have recently obtained funding to use wide-field and 2-photon optogenetics to investigate how perturbations of early network function impact development.  

Preferred candidates will have a Ph.D. or equivalent in neuroscience, biology, or related field, and experience in one or more of the following areas: multiphoton imaging, optogenetics, calcium imaging, and / or in vivo electrophysiology. Applicants without prior experience in these areas but with a strong interest in systems neuroscience and applying optical approaches to investigate circuit function are also encouraged to apply.

Please apply by sending a cover letter stating your interest in the project, your CV, and a brief research statement (1-2 pages) as a single pdf to Gordon Smith (gbsmith@umn.edu), with the subject line “Smith Lab Postdoc 2025”. References will be requested after initial review.  

This is a fully funded multi-year position with excellent benefits. Salary will be commensurate with experience, and will meet or exceed NIH levels.  

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

Additional information

Smith Lab:

The Smith lab is a member of the Optical Imaging Medical Discovery Team ( a $30M initiative at UMN establishing a highly collaborative group of research labs focused on utilizing optical approaches to uncover the function and organization of neural circuits. The postdoctoral fellow will join the intellectually rich neuroscience community at UMN, which brings together behaviorists, electrophysiologists, and computational neuroscientists, and includes the world leading Center for Magnetic Resonance Research. UMN is an excellent training environment for postdocs, with extensive support for trainees and a strong postdoctoral association (

The position includes an excellent comprehensive benefits package, including low cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans, as well as paid holidays, vacation and sick leave. For additional details, please see:  

The Smith Lab and the University of Minnesota recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. We are committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds. The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at UMN:  

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