Post-Doctoral Associate

The University of Minnesota, in collaboration with multiple U.S. institutions (Colorado State University, Texas Tech University, University of Vermont, and Washington State University), is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to support a multistate project aimed at enhancing the sustainability of organic dairy farming through improved youngstock management. The successful candidate will work closely with faculty from the University of Minnesota and external partners. Candidates with a DVM, PhD, or both are encouraged to apply. Experience with organic dairy production is preferred, but not required. Applicants with teaching experience and a strong interest in developing online educational content will be highly valued.

Duties:
The Postdoctoral Researcher will be responsible for a range of activities, including:
Curriculum Development & Teaching:
Designing an online curriculum for veterinary students, focused on organic dairy farming and youngstock management.
Developing and delivering educational content that promotes veterinary education in organic dairy systems.
Research & Data Collection:
Conducting surveys on organic dairy practices, managing data collection, and performing in-depth analysis.
Supporting the research team with on-farm herd health assessments, including the collection of biological samples (e.g., blood, fecal,
milk) and evaluating youngstock management practices.
Collaboration & Project Management:
Collaborating with research partners from various institutions to ensure project objectives are met.
Assisting with manuscript preparation, grant writing, and other administrative tasks to support ongoing research.
Mentorship & Support:
Assisting in the mentorship of graduate and undergraduate students, providing guidance on research methodologies, data analysis, and manuscript preparation.
Administrative & Lab-Related Tasks:
Coordinating with the lab manager to maintain records, manage inventory, and develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) for funded projects.
Ensuring quality control for laboratory and field research activities.

Effort Allocation:
60% of time will be spent in the office:
Online curriculum design and development.
Survey creation and data analysis.
Manuscript and grant proposal preparation.
Mentorship of students.

20% of time will be spent on administrative and lab-related tasks:
Maintaining research records and inventory.
Overseeing SOP development and quality control.

20% of time will be spent on field research:
Participating in on-farm herd health assessments and field sampling (e.g., blood, feces, milk).
Interacting with organic dairy producers for research collaboration.

Required Qualifications:
DVM, PhD, or both in a relevant field (Animal Science, Veterinary Science, or related discipline).
Strong interest in organic dairy production and sustainability.
Excellent written and oral communication skills.
Demonstrated ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams.

Preferred Qualifications:
Experience with educational content development, especially online modules.
Strong background in data analysis and survey design.
Experience with organic dairy production systems in North America.
Previous teaching experience, especially in veterinary or animal science education.
Experience with field research and on-farm data collection.

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also 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

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefits.

Pay Range: $56,484.00 - $58, 656; 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 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.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

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).