Post-Doctoral Associate

About the Job

Duties/Responsibilities:

A postdoctoral scientist is sought in the Department of Diagnostic and Biological Sciences to study the role of immune response and microbiome in oral and skin wound healing. 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 Dr. Drake Williams' laboratory.

More duties and responsibilities are:

• Study the specific aims of a proposal. Act as a project leader and interact/coordinate with similar research projects.
• Conduct research projects and coordinate the analysis, evaluation, and report on phases of the project(s); this may include developing research plans and solving highly complex methodology, protocol, procedural, and research problems through the original design of 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.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• PhD with substantial research and publication record
• High self-motivation, a well-organized working style, and good teamwork ethics

Preferred Qualifications:

• A PhD in oral biology, immunology, or related field
• Experience in mouse models of oral inflammation
• Experience in computational analysis using R/Python

About the Department

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 and Benefits

Pay Range: $62,232; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the

time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures

that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while

maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and

equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates

will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

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 or CV.

This position will remain open until filled.

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 nations 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.