Post-Doctoral Associate

Position Description

The postdoctoral associate will serve as a lead researcher in the design, development, and evaluation of vaccine candidates and immunotherapies under the mentorship of the PI. This role is important for the department's research mission in conducting translational research and driving innovative solutions to improve human and animal health.

Job Responsibilities

• (85%) Conduct research to evaluate vaccine immunity and protection under the guidance of the advisor.
• (5%) Prepare manuscripts/abstracts and presentations.
• (5%) Attend lab meetings and weekly 1-1 meetings with advisor(s).
• (5%) Contribute to essential lab chores and maintain lab safety.

Work Environment

• This is an in-person position.
• The lab is located in the Animal Science/Veterinary Medicine Building on the St. Paul Campus in rooms #169 and 177.

Work Schedule

• Work hours are Monday - Friday, daytime hours.
• Some hours on weekends/evenings may be needed as experiments require.
• 12-month appointment term.

Visa Sponsorship

• Visa sponsorship, including H-1B, may be considered for qualified candidates whose visa circumstances do not require payment of the $100,000 H-1B fee.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in biological and biomedical sciences.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior research experience in molecular biology, cell culture, immunology, virology, and laboratory animal handling is preferred

About the Department

The Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences (VBS) is dedicated to pioneering research, delivering top-tier education, and engaging with the community to provide exceptional services. For over 60 years, the department has been home to internationally recognized programs in foundational and translational biomedical research, training graduate, post-graduate, and veterinary students in fundamental and paraclinical sciences.

Research

Our research addresses critical questions related to acute and chronic diseases in both animals and humans. Using advanced scientific techniques, our four research clusters investigate the genetic, microbial, and immunological foundations of infectious diseases, as well as the biological mechanisms behind persistent and recurring illnesses. These discoveries help identify previously unknown disease-modifying molecular targets and develop innovative strategies to improve animal and human health.

Education

We provide comprehensive education for undergraduate, graduate, and professional veterinary students while also researching new and effective teaching methodologies. Our courses emphasize the intricate connections between animal and human health, equipping students with strong communication and critical thinking skills. This foundation prepares them for careers in animal or human healthcare, scientific research, agricultural sciences, and health policy.

Outreach

Faculty, staff, and students actively engage with the local community, research partners, industry leaders, and government agencies. Through outreach initiatives, we educate and inspire future scientists and medical professionals while addressing challenges that impact the health of companion animals, livestock, and people.

Pay Rate: $62,232.000

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.

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.