Post-Doctoral Associate

Dr. Zheng Zing seeks a full-time Post-Doctoral Associate. This position is available for up to 36 months, contingent on the candidate's satisfactory work performance.

Responsibilities:

• Design and perform experiments in cell culture, molecular virology and immunology, and animal trials in a virology laboratory and ABSL2/3 facility
  working on avian influenza;
• Perform PCR or qRT-PCR for detecting viral RNA in
  animals;
• Perform ELISA and IFA for detecting viral specific antibodies in animal sera
  and viral antigens in tissues; perform avian influenza virus infection in cell cultures;
• Clone and express viral proteins in bacterial and eukaryotic expression systems;
• Develop novel vaccines and test vaccine efficacy in animals; perform poultry necropsy;
• Analyze experimental data, report research results and write research papers and fellowship
  grants.
  

Required Qualifications: Ph.D. or equivalent with strong expertise in virology and/or immunology, and be proficient in molecular and cell culture techniques. Experience in virology or immunology with animal experiments is preferable.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working with infectious agents.
• Experience with DNA subcloning, cell culture, and routine molecular and virological technologies.
• Experience working on innate or cell-mediated immunity and at an ABSL2 and ABSL3 facility with select agents is a plus.
• Individuals who are self-motivated with solid virology background are encouraged to apply.

The Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences (VBS) is dedicated to pioneering research, delivering top-tier education, and engaging with the community to provide exceptional services. For over 60 years, the department has been home to internationally recognized programs in foundational and translational biomedical research, training graduate, post-graduate, and veterinary students in fundamental and paraclinical sciences.

Research
Our research addresses critical questions related to acute and chronic diseases in both animals and humans. Using advanced scientific techniques, our four research clusters investigate the genetic, microbial, and immunological foundations of infectious diseases, as well as the biological mechanisms behind persistent and recurring illnesses. These discoveries help identify previously unknown disease-modifying molecular targets and develop innovative strategies to improve animal and human health.

Education
We provide comprehensive education for undergraduate, graduate, and professional veterinary students while also researching new and effective teaching methodologies. Our courses emphasize the intricate connections between animal and human health, equipping students with strong communication and critical thinking skills. This foundation prepares them for careers in animal or human healthcare, scientific research, agricultural sciences, and health policy.

Outreach
Faculty, staff, and students actively engage with the local community, research partners, industry leaders, and government agencies. Through outreach initiatives, we educate and inspire future scientists and medical professionals while addressing challenges that impact the health of companion animals, livestock, and people.

Pay Range: The starting annual rate for this position is $61,008

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

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).