Spencer L. Smith

Biography

Spencer LaVere Smith earned his undergraduate degree in physics and mathematics (U Iowa), and his Ph.D in neuroscience and neuroengineering (UCLA). After postdoctoral work at University College London, he started his own laboratory in the US in 2011. In 2018, Smith moved his laboratory to UCSB. His awards include a McKnight Technological Innovation Award (2015), a Klingenstein-Simons Fellowship (2013), and a Human Frontier Science Program Career Development Award (2012).

Research

We are investigating neural circuitry in action using novel instrumentation. One half of the lab is neuroengineering new instrumentation for measuring and manipulating neural activity. The other half of the lab is using the technology to perform experiments and gain insights into how neural circuitry processes stimuli and drives adaptive behavior.

Mentoring Priorities

"I want every individual that comes through the lab to feel that the lab positively impacted their career, and shaped how they think and work, no matter what career direction they choose. Ensuring these results takes direct mentorship, and cultivation of a positive, rich, and vigorous lab culture. I ensure that trainees have the resources, connections, and community to thrive and develop into excellent and productive scientists. I work to ensure that each trainee in my lab is productive and becomes well positioned for their next career steps. Moreover, their success should be based not on lab pedigree, but on their own accomplishments and expertise."