Research Professional 5 - Department of Plant and Microbial Biology

A Researcher 5 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 the NSF funded new transformation and genome editing project to design, build and test new methods for improvement of transformation and genome editing in plants. Highly motivated and academically outstanding candidates who want to pursue a scientific career in the fields of plant genome editing and synthetic biology are encouraged to apply. This is a 1 year position which may be renewable subject to continued need and funding based on performance. Essential and Other Functions:

85% Conducting research

Conduct research under the direction of PI
Design, build and test new methods for improvement of transformation and genome editing in plants.

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 Genetics, Molecular Biology, Plant Biology or other related fields with at least 2-year postdoc experience; Prior experience with genome editing, plant tissue culture and transformation; A proven track record of scientific productivity; Proficiency in reading, writing, and speaking English

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience with large scale DNA construct building, gene targeting and various plant transformation technologies; 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: $63,000 to $65,000; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment Category: 75%-100% Appointment (If job description above does not specify appointment or expected weekly hours, assume a 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

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).