Post-Doctoral Associate - Microbiology

The UMN has suspended hiring for most positions. However, we will continue hiring for positions critical to the University's mission and operations at this time. Applications are being accepted for this position and you are encouraged to apply. In-person interviews are suspended indefinitely and will be replaced by interviews in a virtual format. Thank you for your continued interest in working at the University of Minnesota.

Qualifications

Required:
-PhD in microbiology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related field.
-Expertise in bacterial cultivation.

Preferred:
Expertise in any of the following is desirable: phenotypic screening using plate-based assays, gene expression analyses (transcriptomics and/or qRT-PCR), genetics, bioinformatics and/or light microscopy. Additionally, candidates who are intellectually inquisitive and are capable of developing and troubleshooting protocols are preferred.

About the Job

Description:
To investigate the role of phosphate accumulating bacteria in dental decay. Bacteria may mediate the dissolution of mineral material via polyphosphate accumulation. But the triggers and controls on polyphosphate accumulation in oral taxa remain unexplored. The researcher will investigate these questions using plate-based assays, possibly along with genetic, bioinformatic, or other molecular biology approaches.

Essential Functions:
1) Maintain pure cultures of bacteria 20%;
2) Perform plate-based and other laboratory assays to characterize polyphosphate accumulation; 20%
3) publication of research in respected journals; 20%
4) career development; 20%
5) presentation of research results at international meetings 10%
6) involvement in lab meetings and student training 10%

This position will not have any official supervisory functions.

About the Department

The Department of Earth & Environmental Sciences is a vibrant interdisciplinary department whose faculty's research ranges from paleoclimate to deep earth dynamics. The Department is in the N.H. Winchell School of Earth & Environmental Sciences (www.cse.umn.edu/esci) which also includes the Institute for Rock Magnetism, the Continental Scientific Drilling Coordination Facility, the Minnesota Geological Survey, and the Polar Geospatial Center. The majority of the School resides in John T. Tate Hall on the Minneapolis campus, with some labs on the St. Paul campus. Other affiliated research units at the University include the Saint Anthony Falls Laboratory, the Institute on the Environment, and the BioTechnology Institute.

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.

Applications should include: (i) brief cover letter, (ii) curriculum vitae, and (iii) names and contact information for three references. All materials should be uploaded through the University of Minnesota's online system. Please contact Dr. Jake Bailey (baileyj@umn.edu) with any questions.

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

Expected start date is June 01, 2021. Other starting dates can be considered.

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

Background Check Information

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 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.