Post-Doctoral Associate

A Postdoctoral Research Associate position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Feng Zhang in the Department of Plant and Microbial Biology and Center for Precision Plant Genomics at University of Minnesota. The successful candidate will lead USDA-funded genome editing projects in plants, focusing on monocot species. This position offers the opportunity to work in highly collaborative teams, combining cutting-edge genetic and genomic approaches to design, build, and test viral-based genome editing techniques using various CRISPR-Cas systems. We seek highly motivated and academically outstanding candidates eager to pursue a scientific career in plant genome editing and synthetic biology. This is a 2-year position with the possibility of renewal based on performance and continued funding.

Key Responsibilities
• Conduct research on viral-based genome editing (75%)
• Prepare presentations, reports, and manuscripts for conferences, publications, and grant applications (15%)
• Supervise and train junior team members (10%)

Qualifications

Qualifications
Essential
• Recent Ph.D. in Genetics, Molecular Biology, Plant Biology, or related fields
• Experience with genome editing and/or computational biology
• Proven track record of scientific productivity
• Proficiency in English (reading, writing, and speaking)
Preferred
• Expertise in T-DNA transformation
• Experience with large-scale DNA construct building
• Familiar with protein engineering approaches
• Demonstrated critical thinking and ability to work independently

Benefits

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefits.

How To Apply

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section. Example language: This position requires that you attach LIST ATTACHMENT TYPES SUCH AS: a sample of scholarly work, a diversity statement, and a list of references.

This position will remain open until filled.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

Diversity

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is 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 the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

About the U of M

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America’s Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).