NORD Rare Disease Center of Excellence Post Doctoral Associate (# 376386)

Process and analyze data

Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at scientificconferences

Conduct research using qualitative and quantitative methods to evaluate the livedexperience and care needs of children and young adults with rare diseases, and their families Mentorship (10%)

Undergraduate and research assistant mentorship (data collection, coding projects, dataentry)

Collaborate with patient advocacy groups and community members

Work within a diverse team of researchers, including the PIs, Co-Is, graduate students,staff, and other postdoctoral fellows

Attend and/or lead project meetings

Advise and consult on complex problems, to support the broader research project teamsas needed

Participate in the broader intellectual environment to augment professional developmentTeaching (10%)

Develop and present 2 didactics seminars on a rare disease topic for professionalstudent training programs at the University

Present 1 teaching lecture annually for rare disease patient advocacy groups to accessdeeper scientific discovery

Option to engage in a teaching role at the University

Participate in the broader learning environment to augment professional development

Qualifications

Required:

• PhD in psychology, cognitive science, or a related field
• Ability to collaborate effectively with people from a variety of communities, backgrounds,

and identities,

• commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion as well as accepting and embracing neurodiversity
• Skillful with computer software and statistical analysis on PC or Mac
• Must pass all criminal background checks as required by the State of Minnesota

Preferred:

• Proven ability to develop a project and execute it to the point of generating a scientific product
• Proven ability to secure funding through a grant
• Demonstrable strong verbal and written communication as well as organizational skills
• Proven ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong experience in qualitative data acquisition, analysis, and interpretation
• Experience working with people with rare diease, autism and related conditions with high support needs (i.e., having intellectual disability and/or being non-speaking)
• Experience with university regulations, policies, and best practices involved in clinical research projects with child participants

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $63,120/year 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 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, 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.