Post-Doctoral Associate

About the Job

The Laboratory for Mathematical, Computational, and Statistical
Modeling develops and applies mathematical, statistical, and
computational methods to address interdisciplinary research
questions. The Post-Doctoral Associate will support current and
future laboratory projects, including collaborations within The
Hormel Institute and with external partners. Research will include
biomedical applications and other applied problems aligned with the
laboratory’s research priorities.

Working with the faculty mentor, the Post-Doctoral Associate will
develop mathematical and statistical models, machine learning
methods, and artificial intelligence workflows; conduct data
analyses; and communicate findings through scientific publications
and presentations. The position will also contribute to funding
proposals, student mentoring, and the Institute’s bioinformatics
team. The successful candidate will be expected to advance projects
independently, demonstrate professionalism and research integrity,
and contribute new research ideas aligned with the mission and
vision of the Institute and laboratory. The employer retains the
right to change or assign other duties to this position.

Focus of Job Responsibilities

Research and Method Development — 40%

• Develop, apply, and evaluate mathematical and statistical models,

numerical methods, machine learning approaches, and artificial
intelligence workflows for laboratory and collaborative
projects.

• Analyze and interpret data, assess model performance, and

document methods and results to support reproducibility.

• Advance assigned projects independently while coordinating

research priorities with the faculty mentor and
collaborators.

• Propose new research directions aligned with laboratory

priorities and the Institute’s mission and vision.

Scientific Publications and Funding Applications — 35%

• Prepare and revise scientific manuscripts for submission to

peer-reviewed journals.

• Contribute to internal and external grant proposals, including

research plans, preliminary analyses, and supporting
materials.

• Identify and pursue eligible fellowship opportunities in

consultation with the faculty mentor.

• Seek travel awards and other funding opportunities to support

participation in conferences and scientific events.

Research Collaboration and Bioinformatics Support —
10%

• Collaborate with researchers within The Hormel Institute and at

external institutions.

• Contribute mathematical, statistical, and computational expertise

to collaborative research projects.

• Support the Institute’s bioinformatics team through

project-specific analyses, methodological input, and interpretation
of results.

• Participate in project meetings and communicate progress,

findings, and methodological limitations.

Student Mentoring and Research Training — 10%

• Mentor or assist in mentoring students involved in laboratory and

collaborative projects.

• Guide students in research methods, data interpretation,

scientific communication, and responsible research practices.

• Support students’ preparation of research presentations and other

scholarly outputs.

Scientific Participation and Professional Development —
5%

• Participate in internal and external conferences, seminars, and

workshops relevant to the position.

• Present research findings and engage in scientific discussions

with colleagues and collaborators.

• Pursue training that supports research responsibilities and

professional growth.

Flexible Work Profile

The Research and Innovation Office (RIO) and The Hormel Institute
endorses a “work with flexibility” approach that offers a welcoming
and flexible work environment where everyone is inspired to do
their best. Work location options include working fully remote,
partially remote, or entirely in the office and are based on the
work of the position. Some on-site work may be necessary for
certain positions, even those designated as fully remote. Because
we are a land-grant institution that serves the state, the
University will continue to- in most cases- expect employees to
live in Minnesota.

This position has been designated as eligible for Flexible Work
Profile One.

Flexible Work Profile One, Office/Lab-Based - is expected to work
primarily on-site in the office/lab. Only occasionally and
inconsistently working remotely. Your office will be located at The
Hormel Institute in Austin, Minnesota. The Hormel Institute
management retains the right to modify flexible work arrangement
agreements on a temporary or permanent basis for any reason at any
time.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D., DDS, DVM, JD, MD or equivalent is required.
• Research experience in at least one of the following:

mathematical or statistical modeling, data analysis, numerical
methods, machine learning, artificial intelligence, bioinformatics
or equivalent.

• Ability to communicate research methods and findings in writing

and through oral presentations.

Preferred Qualifications

• A PhD or equivalent doctoral degree in mathematics, statistics,

bioinformatics, computer science, artificial intelligence, data
science, or a related discipline.

• Demonstrated research interest in artificial intelligence,

applied mathematics, or machine learning, evidenced through prior
projects, training, publications, or a research statement.

• Ability to conduct research independently and work

collaboratively with an interdisciplinary team.

• Programming experience in one or more languages relevant to

scientific research, such as Python, R, MATLAB or Julia.

• Experience preparing scientific manuscripts, grant proposals, or

fellowship applications.

• Experience collaborating across disciplines or mentoring

students.

• Commitment to professionalism, ethical research practices, and

research integrity.

Physical & Environmental Requirements

• Must be able to work in a computational setting involving

sustained computer use for research, data analysis, writing, and
communication.

• May engage in occasional laboratory or experimental tasks

depending on project scope, candidate background, and specific
training.

• Adhere to all applicable safety protocols, training standards,

and institutional regulatory guidelines during experimental
work.

• Occasional travel may be required to attend industry conferences,

academic workshops, and collaborative events.

About the Department

Founded in 1942 by Jay C. Hormel and The Hormel Foundation, The
Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, makes scientific
advancements that enhance wellbeing and extend human life. For more
than 80 years, we have pursued our mission to conduct research and
provide education in the biological sciences with applications in
medicine and agriculture. A part of the University of Minnesota's
Research and Innovation Office, The Hormel Institute partners with
the region's leading biomedical research facilities, including Mayo
Clinic.

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $63,480-$77,076 ; 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.