Post-Doctoral Associate

Postdoctoral scientist: Department of Diagnostic and Biological Sciences

Supervisor Mark Herzberg and Karen Johnstone
Dates: From-To 8/1/2026 - 7/31/2027 (renewable)
Location MoosT 17-105

Duties/Responsibilities:

A postdoctoral scientist is sought in the Department of Diagnostic and Biological Sciences to study how mixed microbial communities initiate and propagate using early colonizers from dental plaque as a model. The successful candidate will participate in the design, implementation, and evaluation of research studies as well as be involved in collaboration and the publication of findings. The projects will be conducted in the laboratory of Drs. Mark Herzberg and Karen Johnstone and involves collaborations within and outside of the University of Minnesota. More duties and responsibilities are:

• Study the specific aims of a proposal. Act as a project leader and interact/coordinate with collaborative or similar research projects.
• Conduct research projects and coordinate the analysis, evaluation, and report on phases of the project(s). The scientist will develop research plans and solve highly complex methodology, protocol, procedural, and research problems through the design of original protocols, policies, and procedures, frequently involving researching advanced concepts and developing original solutions in the absence of clear standards.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data to test hypotheses and interpret results. Prepare and interpret results for publications and presentations.
• Serve as an expert resource to lab members, outside collaborators, and the scientific community in certain applications or areas of concentration.

• Advise the principal investigator on research techniques, procedures, experimental results, and grant proposals.

Required Qualifications:

• PhD with substantial research and publication record.
• Highly self-motivated, a well-organized working style, and good teamwork ethics.

Preferred Qualifications:

• A PhD in oral biology, microbiology, or related field.
• Experience in prokaryotic genetics and molecular biology.
• Experience in computational analysis.

The University of Minnesota School of Dentistry is the state's only dental school and the only dental school in the northern tier of states between Wisconsin and the Pacific Northwest. The School of Dentistry advances health through scientific discovery, innovative education, and the highest quality care for all communities. Our impact extends beyond dental offices to classrooms and clinics throughout the region. We educate dentists, dental specialists, dental therapists, dental hygienists, dental educators, and research scientists.

Pay Range: $61,008; 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 have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume or CV.

Qualified applicants are invited to submit a cover letter, current CV/resume and contact information for three (3) 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.

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