Postdoc - Avian Repro

Position Overview
Dr. Boukherroub's lab in the Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities has an open position for a postdoctoral associate. The focus of the lab is to investigate the mechanisms regulating reproductive function in avian species in health and disease. Research projects include investigating mechanisms of fertility loss in females, the role of the microbiome in reproduction, susceptibility of hens to diseases including avian influenza, using organoid models to investigate reproductive function and response to pathogens. The lab uses state-of-the-art techniques including single cell RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomics. The individual will have the opportunity to work on their professional development and specific skills needed for their professional success.

The individual is expected to work on projects focused on understanding the interaction between the immune and reproductive systems in poultry species including turkeys and chickens. It is also expected for the individual to be actively involved in all aspects of the lab activities including reviewing literature, refining experimental designs, animal care and handling, travel for research purposes, collecting samples, conducting experiments, preparing interpretation and summaries of results, participating in conferences, manuscript preparation, share lab management duties, participate in lab meetings, and be a good departmental citizen. This position is 100% in person.

Responsibilities
These examples do not include all possible tasks of this work:

• Sample collection at turkey farms
• Blood collection and isolation of leukocytes for further analysis
• RNA extraction for RNA sequencing and data interpretation
• Immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, microscopy
• Quantitative PCR
• Other cellular and molecular biology techniques as needed
• Animal handling
• Participate in lab management responsibilities, training incoming students and other trainees.
• Prepare result summaries to share with collaborators

Required Qualifications:

• PhD in Animal / Biological Science or related field
• Prior experience in cell culture, cellular and molecular biology techniques is required.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a research team.
  

College Overview
The College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS) is composed of 27 programs: 14 undergraduate and 13 graduate programs in disciplines involving food, agricultural, and natural resource sciences. CFANS also has 10 research and outreach centers across Minnesota, plus the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, the Bell Museum, and dozens of interdisciplinary centers that span the college, the university, and the globe. Undergraduate enrollment in the college is about 2000 students. CFANS students are well-prepared for a diverse, multicultural workforce through the college's emphasis on experiential, interdisciplinary, and intercultural learning; internships; and global perspectives.

At CFANS, we aim to inspire minds, nourish people, and enhance the natural environment, and we believe that's only possible if everyone feels seen, heard and respected. Our College embraces equity and diversity and prioritizes purpose-driven scientific discovery in order for us to build a better tomorrow, together. We align with the University of Minnesota in providing 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.

Department Overview
The Department of Animal Science (http://www.ansci.umn.edu) in the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resources Sciences (CFANS) (http://www.cfans.umn.edu/ is located on the scenic St. Paul campus. The Animal Science major, with an enrollment of around 400 students, is divided into five emphasis areas: Business/Industry, Companion Animal, Equine, Production, and Pre-Veterinary Medicine/Science. Each emphasis offers a unique combination of classes to prepare students for future careers in business, production management, companion animal, equine, veterinary medicine or graduate school. Within an emphasis, students can also specialize in a species, such as beef, companion animal, dairy, equine, poultry, swine or sheep, or develop a set of elective classes unique to their animal interests.

Pay Range: $61,008 - 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 at http://employment.umn.edu/ (search for Job Opening ID 368465). 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.

Required Application Materials:
* CV
* Cover letter explaining qualifications
* Contact information of at least 3 references are required

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).