Post-Doctoral Associate - Biochemist/molecular biologist

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Comprehensive benefits

Tuition benefit

Job summary

The University of Minnesota invites applications for a scientist to characterize carcinogen DNA damage and molecular signatures in the oral mucosa of smokeless tobacco users. The role focuses on MS-based identification of DNA adducts and analytical profiling of molecular signatures, contributing to our tobacco-related cancer research portfolio within MCC.

Required: recent PhD in biochemistry or molecular biology.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in biochemistry, molecular biology, or a closely related field.
• Working knowledge of DNA adducts and molecular signatures (preferred).

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

DNA adducts knowledge

Molecular signatures knowledge

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. in biochemistry and/or molecular biology to characterize carcinogen DNA damage and molecular signatures in the oral mucosa of smokeless tobacco users. This unique project will build on our deep understanding of tobacco-induced cancer to discover new mechanisms of oral cancer etiology in smokeless tobacco users.

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%

Qualifications

All required qualifications must be documented on application materials.

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

Preferred qualifications: working knowledge of DNA adducts and molecular signatures.

About the Department

The Masonic Cancer Center (MCC) is an NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center dedicated to cancer research, education, and patient care for the citizens of Minnesota and the surrounding region. Since the time of the first award in 1997, there has been consistent growth of the membership and research base, enabling our center to further advance our knowledge and enhance care for our catchment area. We are driven to be the choice academic healthcare environment for patients, clinicians, scientists and students who seek exceptional, compassionate, precision cancer therapy; innovative clinical trials and prevention programs; cutting-edge research opportunities; and outstanding advanced education.

Pay and Benefits

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

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff

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

The University 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

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the

time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures

that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while

maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment 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 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

Employment Requirements

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.

About University of Minnesota

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.