Post-Doctoral Associate - Biochemist/molecular biologist

University of Minnesota; Minneapolis (MN); On-site; USD 63,000 - 64,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive wages

Paid holidays

Generous time off

Tuition benefit program

Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy

Job summary

The University of Minnesota invites applications for a scientist with a recent Ph.D. in biochemistry or molecular biology to characterize carcinogen-DNA damage and molecular signatures in the oral mucosa of smokeless tobacco users.

The project extends our understanding of tobacco-associated cancer and seeks mechanistic insights into oral cancer etiology. The successful candidate will perform high-resolution mass spectrometry analyses of DNA adducts and identify signatures in DNA samples,

Qualifications

• Minimum qualifications: Ph.D. in biochemistry, molecular biology, or a closely related field.
• Preferred qualifications: working knowledge of DNA adducts and molecular signatures.
• All required qualifications must be documented on application materials.

Responsibilities

• Laboratory research on isolation and identification of carcinogen-DNA adducts using high resolution mass spectrometry (75%).
• Identification and classification of molecular signatures in DNA samples (25%).

Skills

Molecular biology

Biochemistry

Research skills

Education

Ph.D. in biochemistry or molecular biology

Tools

High-resolution mass spectrometry

Job description

About the Job

Our laboratory seeks a scientist with a recent Ph.D. inbiochemistry and/or molecular biology to characterize carcinogenDNA damage and molecular signatures in the oral mucosa of smokelesstobacco users. This unique project will build on our deepunderstanding of tobacco-induced cancer to discover new mechanismsof oral cancer etiology in smokeless tobacco users.

Responsibilities:

• Laboratory research on isolation and identification ofcarcinogen-DNA adducts using high resolution mass spectrometry:75%
• Identification and classification of molecular signatures in DNAsamples: 25%

Qualifications

All required qualifications must be documented on applicationmaterials.

Minimum qualifications: Ph.D. in biochemistry, molecular biology,or a closely related field.

Preferred qualifications: working knowledge of DNA adducts andmolecular signatures.

About the Department

The Masonic Cancer Center (MCC) is an NCI-designated ComprehensiveCancer Center dedicated to cancer research, education, and patientcare for the citizens of Minnesota and the surrounding region.Since the time of the first award in 1997, there has beenconsistent growth of the membership and research base, enabling ourcenter to further advance our knowledge and enhance care for ourcatchment area. We are driven to be the choice academic healthcareenvironment for patients, clinicians, scientists and students whoseek exceptional, compassionate, precision cancer therapy;innovative clinical trials and prevention programs; cutting-edgeresearch opportunities; and outstanding advanced education.

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $63,480 - $64,380; depending oneducation/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for moreinformation regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package thatincludes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional trainingand degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition BenefitProgram
• 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 counselingat no cost
• Employee TransitPass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metroarea

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important tonote that most of the time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. Thisapproach ensures that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions ofeach candidate while maintaining equity within our organization. As part of ourcommitment to fair and equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

Diversity

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversityand inclusion in enriching the employment experience of itsemployees and in supporting the academic mission. The University iscommitted to attracting and retaining employees with varyingidentities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to andopportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment withoutregard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender,age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteranstatus, 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 successfulcompletion of a background check. Our presumption is thatprospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminalconvictions do not automatically disqualify finalists fromemployment.

About University of Minnesota

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among thelargest public research universities in the country, offeringundergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude ofopportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of oneof the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities,students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit fromextensive 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 byForbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employerfor 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-lifeflexibility.