Director Microbial Ecology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Microbiota Transplantation
Position Description:  We are seeking a highly motivated post-doctoral research associate to join our Microbiota Therapeutics Program, a multidisciplinary team that is focused on development of fecal microbiota-based drugs. The Program consists of basic scientists, a manufacturing group, and clinical research arm. The products manufactured by our Program are undergoing clinical trials for various clinical indications, including inflammatory bowel diseases, optimization of checkpoint cancer immunotherapy, complications of liver disease, autism, C. difficile infections, and others. This provides a unique model for real-world drug development and creates a direct linkage of science to the bedside.
The post-doc would be joining our basic research group to develop a new direction of investigation. Possible projects include microbiome-mitochondrial axis connection or calibration of allergic immune responses by the gut microbiome. Mechanistic insights gained from this research would be applied to next-generation development of microbiota-based drug products.
The ideal candidate will be a detail-oriented critical thinker able to organize several projects occurring simultaneously and facilitate completion of studies in an ethical, rigorous, and timely manner. Independent work is expected, but the researcher will also work closely with and receive guidance and support from faculty mentors.
The position is in the laboratory of Dr. Alexander Khoruts, MD in the Department of Medicine at the University of Minnesota.  Funding is available for up to two years, contingent on satisfactory performance. The proposed start date is the last quarter of 2026.
Key Responsibilities: 
Conduct fundamental research in molecular microbial ecology, microbial transplantation technology, including in human-microbe interactions
Employ state-of-the-art genomic, metagenomic, and computational tools to examine microbe-host interactions
The project may involve work with mouse models.
Collect, analyze, and interpret scientific data
Communicate results to scientific audiences through peer-reviewed publications and poster/oral presentations at scientific conferences
Contribute to the training and mentoring of graduate students
Exploit opportunities for professional skill development and career enhancement
Requirements
Required Minimum Qualifications (required): 
PhD in Microbiology, Microbial Ecology, or a closely related field with a strong emphasis on microbiology
Authorship on peer-reviewed scientific publications
Experience with basic molecular biology techniques, e.g., PCR
Experience with computational tools for microbiome analysis, including R, python, mothur, QIIME, MaAsLin, etc.
Experience in working with animal models
Ability to design and conduct experiments and analyze, interpret, and synthesize results as demonstrated through peer-reviewed publication
Excellent written and oral communication and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate in a research team and convey technical information
Duties and responsibilities:
1.Experimental work and data analysis (70%)
2.Scientific writing, figure preparation (20%)
3.Collaborative work and teaching within the research team (10%)
Application: Interested candidates should submit i) a cover letter describing the candidates interest in and qualifications for the position, ii) current curriculum vitae, and ii) the names and contact information of at least three professional references.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Applications must be submitted to: Dr. Alex Khoruts, khoru001@umn.edu

Pay Range: Pay will align with the NIH Postdoctoral range, with starting wages beginning at $63,480 up to $80,000 annually; 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.

Application: Interested candidates should submit i) a cover letter describing the candidates interest in and qualifications for the position, ii) current curriculum vitae, and ii) the names and contact information of at least three professional references. 
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Applications must be submitted to: Dr. Alex Khoruts, khoru001@umn.edu

This position will remain open until filled.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail jobcentr@umn.edu.

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