Post-Doctoral Associate

About the Job

The postdoctoral associate will lead a semi-independent
investigation into the molecular mechanisms of protein toxins
and/or secretion systems produced by Gram-positive bacteria. The
successful candidate will work in collaboration with laboratory
members as a part of an interdisciplinary research team focused on
addressing longstanding questions in toxin biochemistry. The
candidate is expected to contribute to the intellectual and
scientific environment of the laboratory by sharing ideas,
critically evaluating experimental results, and participating in
scientific discussions. The candidate will also communicate their
research findings internally and externally.

The following workload is anticipated:

90% Research:

The postdoctoral associate will contribute to a federally research
project. All work will be conducted semi-independently and in line
with the goals of this project. The candidate will use a variety of
techniques to accomplish these goals including the following:

Molecular Biology: PCR, Gibson Assembly, Site-Directed Mutagenesis,
etc.

Protein Biochemistry: Affinity Chromatography, Chemical Labelling,
Enzymatic Processing, etc.

Biochemical Characterization: Fluorescence-Based Activity Assays,
Immunoblotting, etc.

Biophysical Analysis: Cryo-EM, Biolayer Interferometry (BLI),
Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR), etc.

Cell-based assays: Development experiments to investigate toxin
activity in mammalian cells.

General Laboratory Responsibilities (5%):

The postdoctoral associate will contribute to the effective
operation and organization of the laboratory. Responsibilities will
include ordering supplies, maintaining laboratory equipment, and
preparing and replenishing common reagents.

Training and Mentorship (5%):

The postdoctoral associate will assist in training and mentoring
undergraduate and/or graduate students in fundamental laboratory
techniques, as appropriate to their research experience and the
needs of the laboratory.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

Applicants must meet the following qualifications to be considered
for this position:

Completed a Ph.D. in biochemistry, microbiology, chemistry,
pharmacology, or related field in the last two years.

Research experience in one or more of the following areas:
bacteriology, cell biology, structural biology, or
biochemistry.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications including Word, Excel,
and PowerPoint.

Strong oral and written communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

The following qualifications are preferred:

Research experience with one or more of the following techniques:
bacterial genetics, cryogenic electron microscopy (Cryo-EM), X-ray
crystallography, and/or biochemical assay development.

Familiarity with Linux-based operating systems.

Experience with data analysis and scientific imaging software,
including GraphPad Prism, ImageJ, CellProfiler, CryoSPARC, and
RELION.

About the Department

Pharmacology

The Department of Pharmacology at the University of Minnesota is
one of six basic science departments in the Medical School . The well-funded
research programs of our primary
faculty members focus on understanding and developing
better treatments for cancer, addiction and the opioid crisis,
cardiovascular disease, infectious disease, and metabolic syndrome.
We also offer an undergraduate
Pharmacology Minor , oversee the
Molecular Pharmacology and Therapeutics Graduate Program
(MPaT) , teach fundamental principles of pharmacology to
students in professional degree programs (MD, DDS, and MD/PhD), and
provide individualized training experiences for our strong
community of
postdoctoral scholars . Our past trainees are now
applying their skills to impactful careers in academia, medicine,
industry, government, law, and regulatory oversight. We are proud
of our role in preparing the next generation of scientists for
rewarding careers in the health sciences and related professions,
and for the various other ways we give back to our community.

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $64,380.00 ; depending on
education/qualifications/experience

Please visit the Benefits for Postdoctoral Candidates website for more
information regarding benefit eligibility.

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional

training

• Medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling

at no cost

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 be given 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.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please
e-mail jobcentr@umn.edu.

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

Employment Requirements

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful
completion of a background check. Our presumption is that
prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal
convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from
employment.

About University of Minnesota

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
Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer
for Women (2023, 2025, 2026), and Best Employer by State
(2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence &
Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life
flexibility.