Post-Doctoral Associate - Department of Plant and Microbial Biology

A postdoctoral 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 take on a collaborative project with Dr. Shaobin Zhong at Cereal Disease Lab, USDA-ARS, St. Paul, MN, focusing on molecular identification and functional characterization of genes for resistance to cereal diseases (Leaf rust and Fusarium head blight) in wheat. The incumbent will be responsible for development of gene mapping populations, pathogen inoculation and phenotyping, marker design and genetic mapping, DNA cloning, and functional characterization of candidate genes for disease resistance using forward and revere genetic tools. This position is available for one year with subsequent years contingent upon funding and performance. Highly motivated and academically outstanding candidates who want to pursue a scientific career in the fields of plant biology and pathology are encouraged to apply.

Essential and Other Functions:
85% Conducting research
Conduct research under the direction of PI.

15% Data analysis and manuscript preparation
Collect and analyze data from research projects; prepare manuscripts for publications and grant applications.

Required Qualifications:
Ph.D. in Plant Pathology, Genetics, Molecular Biology, Plant Biology or other related fields; Prior experience with plant pathogens and/or plant tissue culture; A proven track record of scientific productivity; Proficiency in reading, writing, and speaking English.

Preferred Qualifications:
Experience with wheat haploid production through wide hybridization, genetic mapping, and genome editing; Proven ability to think critically and work independently.

Our mission is to conduct fundamental research and provide education in plant and microbial biology.

The Department of Plant and Microbial Biology (PMB), led by Interim Head Dr. John Ward, comprises a diverse and integrative group of scientists who study the genetics, ecology, evolution, and molecular biology of plants, fungi, and microbes. Our undergraduate and graduate programs prepare our students for a variety of career paths, including research, education, biotechnology, and environmental policy.

The College of Biological Sciences Conservatory and Botanical Collection is run by the department. With more than 1,200 species from around the world organized into five biomes, the Conservatory is home to the most diverse collection of plants in the region.

Affiliated research and outreach facilities include the Minnesota Supercomputing Institute, the Microbial and Plant Genomics Institute, the BioTechnology Institute, the Biotechnology Resource Center, the University of Minnesota Genomics Center, the Biological Imaging Centers, the University of Minnesota Herbarium of the J. F. Bell Museum of Natural History, Itasca Biological Station and Laboratories, and Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve.

Pay Range: $61,008 to $64,000; 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

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 employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

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

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.

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).