STEM OPT Postdoctoral Researcher Jobs
Postdoctoral Researcher roles sit squarely within STEM OPT eligibility, giving graduates with qualifying science, technology, engineering, or mathematics degrees up to 24 additional months of work authorization beyond their initial OPT period. Your employer must be enrolled in E-Verify, which most universities and research institutions already are.
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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.
Additional materials and questions about the position can be sent to the PI (Dr. Kristina Smiley) at [email protected].
Job Summary
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.
Responsibilities
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.
Required Qualifications
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.
Desired Qualifications
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.
Modes of Work
Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.
Additional Information
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. 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.
As one of the world's great liberal arts and sciences colleges, LSA pushes the boundaries of what is understood about the human experience and the natural world, and we foster the next generation of rigorous and empathetic thinkers, creators, and contributors to the state of Michigan, the nation, and the world.
To learn more about LSA's Mission, Vision and Values, please visit lsa.umich.edu/strategicvision.
Background Screening
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.
Application Deadline
Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. This job may be removed from the posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended.
Applications will begin to be reviewed one week after the posting opens and will remain open until the position is filled.
U-M EEO Statement
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.
Job Opening ID
279101
Working Title
Postdoctoral Research Fellow Position in Behavioral
Job Title
RESEARCH FELLOW
Work Location
Ann Arbor Campus
Ann Arbor, MI
Modes of Work
Onsite
Full/Part Time
Full-Time
Regular/Temporary
Regular
FLSA Status
Exempt
Organizational Group
College Of Lsa
Department
LSA Psychology
Posting Begin/End Date
6/19/2026 - 8/02/2026
Salary
$63,480.00 - $71,748.00
Career Interest
Research Fellows
How to Apply
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.
Additional materials and questions about the position can be sent to the PI (Dr. Kristina Smiley) at [email protected].
Job Summary
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.
Responsibilities
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.
Required Qualifications
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.
Desired Qualifications
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.
Modes of Work
Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.
Additional Information
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. 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.
As one of the world's great liberal arts and sciences colleges, LSA pushes the boundaries of what is understood about the human experience and the natural world, and we foster the next generation of rigorous and empathetic thinkers, creators, and contributors to the state of Michigan, the nation, and the world.
To learn more about LSA's Mission, Vision and Values, please visit lsa.umich.edu/strategicvision.
Background Screening
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.
Application Deadline
Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. This job may be removed from the posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended.
Applications will begin to be reviewed one week after the posting opens and will remain open until the position is filled.
U-M EEO Statement
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.
Job Opening ID
279101
Working Title
Postdoctoral Research Fellow Position in Behavioral
Job Title
RESEARCH FELLOW
Work Location
Ann Arbor Campus
Ann Arbor, MI
Modes of Work
Onsite
Full/Part Time
Full-Time
Regular/Temporary
Regular
FLSA Status
Exempt
Organizational Group
College Of Lsa
Department
LSA Psychology
Posting Begin/End Date
6/19/2026 - 8/02/2026
Salary
$63,480.00 - $71,748.00
Career Interest
Research Fellows
See all 718+ STEM OPT Postdoctoral Researcher Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new STEM OPT Postdoctoral Researcher Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding STEM OPT Authorization in Postdoctoral Researcher
Verify your CIP code before applying
Your STEM OPT extension depends on your degree's Classification of Instructional Programs code appearing on USCIS's STEM Designated Degree Program List. Check your I-20 and confirm your DSO has the correct CIP code before submitting your extension application.
Confirm E-Verify enrollment before accepting offers
Universities and national labs almost universally maintain E-Verify enrollment, but private research institutes sometimes don't. Ask HR for the employer's E-Verify Company ID or look up the organization directly in the E-Verify database before signing an offer.
Target labs with existing I-983 infrastructure
Postdoc positions require a completed I-983 Training Plan connecting your research duties to your STEM degree. Principal investigators who have sponsored STEM OPT students before already know this process, which cuts your onboarding timeline significantly.
Use Migrate Mate to filter postdoc employers
Many postdoc listings don't specify E-Verify status or prior STEM OPT experience. Migrate Mate filters employers by verified E-Verify enrollment so you can focus your applications on institutions already equipped to hire you.
File your extension 90 days before OPT expires
USCIS allows STEM OPT extension applications starting 90 days before your current EAD end date. Filing early triggers cap-gap protection if your status bridges into an H-1B visa cycle, keeping your work authorization continuous without a gap.
Negotiate your offer letter before the I-983 is drafted
The I-983 must accurately reflect your actual duties, supervision structure, and how the work relates to your degree field. Nail down your title, department, and primary research responsibilities in the offer letter first so the training plan matches without revision requests from your DSO.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Postdoctoral Researcher role qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
Yes, postdoctoral research positions qualify if your underlying degree appears on USCIS's STEM Designated Degree Program List and the work is directly related to that field. Most postdoc roles in biology, chemistry, physics, computer science, and engineering satisfy this requirement. Confirm your degree's CIP code with your DSO before applying for the extension.
Are universities and research institutions enrolled in E-Verify?
Most universities and federally funded research institutions are enrolled in E-Verify, but enrollment isn't universal for every campus unit or affiliated research center. Always ask HR for confirmation of the employer's E-Verify Company ID before you accept an offer. Private institutes and nonprofits vary. Migrate Mate shows verified E-Verify enrollment status so you can screen employers before applying.
What goes into the I-983 Training Plan for a postdoc position?
The I-983 requires your employer to describe how your postdoctoral research duties connect to your STEM degree field, identify your supervising faculty member or PI, and outline learning objectives and evaluation timelines. Your DSO must sign off on the plan before your extension is approved. Any significant change in your research scope or supervisor requires a revised I-983 within five days.
Can I stay in status while transitioning between postdoc positions on STEM OPT?
You have a 10-day grace period between OPT-authorized positions, but you must maintain authorization continuously. If you're leaving one postdoc and starting another, coordinate the end date of the first position and start date of the second carefully. Report employer changes to your DSO immediately, as STEM OPT requires timely updates to SEVIS whenever your employment changes.
How does cap-gap protection work if my postdoc employer files an H-1B petition for me?
If your employer files an H-1B petition on your behalf before your OPT EAD expires and you're selected in the lottery, cap-gap automatically extends your work authorization through September 30 of that fiscal year. You can continue your postdoctoral research uninterrupted during this period. Your DSO issues an updated I-20 confirming cap-gap status, which serves as your employment authorization evidence.