Post-Doctoral Associate

Description of the department:
The Department of Entomology at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, established in 1888, is a leading institution in insect science, renowned for its research, education, and outreach initiatives. Housed within the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS), the department focuses on the systematics, biodiversity, biology, and ecology of insects and their relatives, emphasizing their significance to human welfare and environmental health.

Job duties or responsibilities of this position:
(40%) Research: Measure eco-physiological responses of insects to cold exposure. Work includes contributions to experimental design, quality control/quality assurance, recording details of all procedures and experiments in laboratory notebooks and other formats.

(35%) Data analysis: Use statistical analyses to summarize data and prepare graphical and tabular summaries of results and interpret findings.

(25%) Project coordination: Coordinate with PI and team members to schedule individual research tasks and support collective lab productivity. Communicate and report on findings verbally and in writing to external audiences. Establish lines of communication with cooperators in other states. Identify dates to receive shipments of insects. Coordinate shipments of insects to St. Paul in accordance with federal permitting requirements. Prepare written descriptions of activities and findings and share with cooperators. Other duties as assigned.

Position Summary:
This is an 80% time (32 hours/week) position that is funded by sponsored funds with a project and position end date of April 30, 2026.

The PostDoc Associate will conduct research-related work in laboratory and office settings to support efforts on the Spotted Lantern Fly Project to understand how cold temperatures affect the ecology of insects. The individual will receive training and guidance from the PI and other team members. The position will work independently, contribute to experimental design, troubleshoot research problems, analyze and interpret results, and make decisions about the work. They will also be expected to work in team settings. The individual will be responsible to recognize problems when they occur, assess potential responses, and implement sound decisions. The individual will communicate progress formally and informally to team members.

Required qualifications for this position:
-PhD in biological, ecological, or environmental sciences or a related field.
-Previous experience working with insects and conducting research required.
-Ability to apply knowledge and skill to a recurring task or activity with emphasis typically on precision and timeliness of execution.

Preferred qualifications for this position:
-High-level attention to detail and ability to work efficiently and consistently in sometimes repetitive tasks.
-Ability to work independently, strong communication skills, curiosity and
accountability to the team are priorities.
-Knowledge of R or other statistical analysis software and evidence of statistical competency.
-At least three years of experience working with insects or related organisms.

Pay Range: $49,785.60 - $62,400 annual base salary for an 80% time appt (100% time equivalent of $62,232 - $78,000).; 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

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.

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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.