Postdoctoral Researcher – In Vivo Imaging and Electrophysiology of Developing Cortical Networks
Smith Lab – University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
Before the cortex can process sensory information, its circuits must first organize themselves. The Smith Lab at the University of Minnesota studies how this happens. We have found that distributed, modular networks with millimeter-scale correlations exist throughout the developing neocortex, and using in vivo optogenetics and computational modeling, we have shown that these networks are self-organizing and depend on local intracortical circuitry. We are now asking how early network activity shapes the circuits that emerge: by imaging, recording, and perturbing activity in vivo during development, and comparing the results against models of network self-organization.
The postdoc will lead projects combining two-photon imaging, optogenetics, and electrophysiology in the developing cortex, with the opportunity to shape the direction of their own work.
Recent work: Mulholland, et al. bioRxiv, 2026 · Powell, et al. PNAS 2024 · Lab website: smithneurolab.org
Required qualifications
• A Ph.D. in neuroscience, biology, engineering, or a related field, received within the past two years or expected before the start date.
• Substantial hands-on experience performing in vivo experiments in mammals, using either:
– in vivo imaging and/or manipulation of neural activity (e.g., two-photon calcium imaging, widefield imaging, optogenetics), or
– in vivo single-unit electrophysiology (e.g., tetrodes, silicon probes, Neuropixels).
• At least one first-author publication or preprint based on this work.
• Experience analyzing your own data in Python, MATLAB, or a similar language.
Preferred qualifications
• Experience with chronic preparations (cranial windows, chronic implants), particularly in young animals.
• Experience with both imaging and electrophysiology, or with closed-loop or patterned optogenetic stimulation.
• Interest in combining experiments with computational modeling.
How to apply
Send the following as a single PDF to Gordon Smith (gbsmith+postdoc2026@umn.edu) with the subject line “Smith Lab Postdoc 2026 - [Your Last Name]”:
1. CV, listing the date your Ph.D. was (or will be) awarded and marking your first-author publications and preprints.
2. Research experience statement (1 page maximum) that addresses:
a. One in vivo experiment you personally designed or performed: the preparation, the recording or imaging method, and which parts you did yourself (surgery, data collection, analysis).
b. A technical problem you ran into in that work and how you solved it.
c. A question raised by our recent work (see recent work above) that you would want to pursue, and how you might approach it.
3. Names and contact information for three references, including your Ph.D. advisor. Letters will be requested only for candidates under serious consideration.
Applications that do not follow these instructions will not be reviewed.
International applicants are welcome; the lab has experience sponsoring J-1 visas.
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. The start date is flexible.
Position details
This is a fully funded position with excellent benefits, with the expectation of renewal for postdocs who are making good progress. Salary is commensurate with experience and will meet or exceed NIH guidelines. Postdocs are expected to apply for independent fellowship support (e.g., F32, K99/R00), and the lab provides close mentorship and support in preparing these applications.
Additional information
The Smith Lab is a member of the Optical Imaging Medical Discovery Team (https://med.umn.edu/brain-science), a UMN initiative building a highly collaborative group of labs that use optical approaches to study the function and organization of neural circuits. The postdoctoral fellow will join a broad neuroscience community at UMN spanning systems, behavioral, and computational neuroscience, including the world-leading Center for Magnetic Resonance Research. UMN offers extensive support for trainees and has a strong Postdoctoral Association (https://pda.umn.edu/).
The position includes a comprehensive benefits package, including low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans, as well as paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave. For details, see https://humanresources.umn.edu/benefits.
The University of Minnesota shall provide equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, gender, age, marital status, familial status, disability, public assistance status, membership or activity in a local commission created for the purpose of dealing with discrimination, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.