Collect and analyze microbiome data.

Perform transcriptomic sampling and analysis of plant roots, fungal tissues, and bacterial samples during co-inoculation experiments.

Assist with microbial culture maintenance, plant growth assays, inoculation experiments, and phenotyping of mycorrhization and plant growth responses.

Analyze omics datasets and contribute to bioinformatic and statistical interpretation of results

30% of the time will be spent on preparing manuscripts, figures, reports, and lab meetings, conference presentations based on research findings, and proposal writing.

20% Mentor students, collaborate with teams, and write reports.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• Ph. D. in plant microbiology, molecular biology, soil biology, or a closely related field by the time of appointment.
• Experience with plant-microbe interactions, microbial symbiosis, or related biological systems.
• Demonstrated experience with molecular biology techniques such as nucleic acid extraction, PCR/qPCR, and/or sequencing-based workflows.
• Familiarity with omics approaches, including transcriptomics, metabolomics, and/or microbiome analysis.
• Strong record of scientific productivity, including peer-reviewed publications or equivalent research output.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple projects, and collaborate in a multidisciplinary team.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, rhizosphere/hyphosphere microbiomes, or mycorrhiza helper bacteria.
• Prior experience with metabolomics sample preparation, LC-MS/MS, or exometabolomics data analysis.
• Familiarity with plant growth chamber experiments, controlled inoculation systems, or compartmented experimental designs.
• Experience integrating multi-omics datasets to address biological questions in plant-microbe interactions.
• Ability to mentor students and contribute to a positive, inclusive lab culture.
• Experience with maize or other crop systems would be an asset.

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $62,232 - $64,000; 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

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.

Submit cover letter, CV, and three references; the application review will continue until a suitable candidate is finalized.

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.

Collect and analyze microbiome data.

Perform transcriptomic sampling and analysis of plant roots, fungal tissues, and bacterial samples during co-inoculation experiments.

Assist with microbial culture maintenance, plant growth assays, inoculation experiments, and phenotyping of mycorrhization and plant growth responses.

Analyze omics datasets and contribute to bioinformatic and statistical interpretation of results

30% of the time will be spent on preparing manuscripts, figures, reports, and lab meetings, conference presentations based on research findings, and proposal writing.

20% Mentor students, collaborate with teams, and write reports.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• Ph. D. in plant microbiology, molecular biology, soil biology, or a closely related field by the time of appointment.
• Experience with plant-microbe interactions, microbial symbiosis, or related biological systems.
• Demonstrated experience with molecular biology techniques such as nucleic acid extraction, PCR/qPCR, and/or sequencing-based workflows.
• Familiarity with omics approaches, including transcriptomics, metabolomics, and/or microbiome analysis.
• Strong record of scientific productivity, including peer-reviewed publications or equivalent research output.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple projects, and collaborate in a multidisciplinary team.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, rhizosphere/hyphosphere microbiomes, or mycorrhiza helper bacteria.
• Prior experience with metabolomics sample preparation, LC-MS/MS, or exometabolomics data analysis.
• Familiarity with plant growth chamber experiments, controlled inoculation systems, or compartmented experimental designs.
• Experience integrating multi-omics datasets to address biological questions in plant-microbe interactions.
• Ability to mentor students and contribute to a positive, inclusive lab culture.
• Experience with maize or other crop systems would be an asset.

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $62,232 - $64,000; 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

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.

Submit cover letter, CV, and three references; the application review will continue until a suitable candidate is finalized.

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.