The National Institutes of Health (NIH), through the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, is inviting applications for a Postdoctoral Fellow position in Developmental Neuroscience. This opportunity is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, within a leading research environment dedicated to advancing biomedical science.
Position Details
Position Title: Postdoctoral Fellow
Employer: NIH (NICHD)
Location: Bethesda, Maryland, USA
Position Type: Full-Time, Postdoctoral Fellowship
Salary: Starting from $75,000 per year (adjusted based on experience and qualifications)
Application Deadline: April 17, 2026
Discipline: Life Sciences / Neuroscience
Organization Type: Government Research Institution
Research Background and Scope
The position is based in the Section on Cellular and Molecular Neurodevelopment, which focuses on understanding the development of GABAergic inhibitory interneurons. These neurons are highly diverse in their structure, connectivity, and function, and play a critical role in maintaining the balance of neural circuits in the brain.
Dysfunction or abnormal development of these interneurons has been strongly associated with several neurological and psychiatric disorders, including epilepsy, schizophrenia, and autism spectrum disorders. Recent research highlights that many genes linked to these conditions are actively expressed during early stages of interneuron development. Therefore, investigating the genetic and epigenetic regulation of these cells is essential for understanding both normal brain development and disease mechanisms.
The laboratory employs a multidisciplinary approach, combining molecular biology, genetics, and advanced neuroscience techniques to explore these questions.
Research Techniques and Methodologies
The selected candidate will have the opportunity to work with cutting-edge technologies, including but not limited to:
- Single-cell RNA sequencing for high-resolution cellular profiling.
- Spatial transcriptomics to study gene expression within tissue context.
- Stem cell culture and differentiation, including human iPSC-derived neuronal models.
- In utero electroporation for gene manipulation in developing brain tissue.
- Cell transplantation approaches to study. neuronal integration and function
- Additional molecular and cellular techniques to analyze gene expression and neural development.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Hold a Ph.D. and/or M.D. in neuroscience, developmental biology, cell biology, genetics, or a closely related discipline
- Have completed no more than five years of prior postdoctoral training
- Demonstrate strong analytical, experimental design, and problem-solving skills
- Show the ability to conduct independent research as well as collaborate effectively within a team
Preferred Qualifications
Candidates with prior experience in the following areas will be given preference:
- Single-cell sequencing technologies
- Brain organoid systems
- Human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) differentiation
- Computational or bioinformatics analysis related to transcriptomics.
Employment Conditions and Benefits
The position is open to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and non-U.S. citizens with valid work authorization.
Salary will be commensurate with experience in accordance with NIH guidelines.
Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, paid leave, and professional development opportunities.
The NIH maintains a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in its workforce.
Application Procedure
Interested candidates are required to submit the following documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) including a complete bibliography.
- Statement outlining research interests and career goals.
- Three letters of reference from academic or professional referees
Applications should be sent via email to:
Dr. Timothy Petros
Email: tim.petros@nih.gov
For additional details about the research program and ongoing projects, please visit:
Information about NIH postdoctoral training programs can be found at:
Equal Opportunity Statement
The NIH, NICHD, and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) are equal opportunity employers. They are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive research environment and strongly encourage applications from women, underrepresented groups, and individuals with disabilities.
