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An NIH-funded postdoctoral position studying the genome plasticity of human fungal pathogens is immediately available in the laboratory of Dr. Anna Selmecki in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Minnesota.

Typical tasks (These examples do not include all possible tasks in this work and do not limit the assignment of related tasks).

75% Research and data analysis:

The Postdoctoral Associate will lead projects focused on understanding mechanisms of genome instability and drug resistance in Candida species. The candidate will employ a wide variety of experimental techniques including but not limited to CRISPR mutagenesis, Western blot analyses, and preparation of libraries for whole genome/transcriptome sequencing. They will independently execute, analyze, and troubleshoot experiments related to this research. They will read and study primary literature in this field and will develop new hypotheses and experimental outlines for their research. The candidate will participate in lab meetings, journal clubs, and local/regional/national seminars and symposia. They will present at least 1 formal seminar per year (locally or at relevant regional/national/international meetings).

20% Drafting and writing scientific manuscripts and grant applications:

The Postdoctoral Fellow will be responsible for writing manuscripts and communicating experimental results. They will serve as primary author and co-author of manuscripts. They will work with the PI in planning, outlining, and drafting extramural research proposals.

5% Training/supervision of graduate students, technicians, and undergraduates:
The Postdoctoral Fellow will assist in the technical training and supervision of technicians, undergraduate, and graduate students in the lab. This will include hands-on training, helping trouble-shoot experiments, and coordinate follow-up discussions with trainees to evaluate and support data analyses.

Required Qualifications:

• A Ph.D. in a biology-related field (Biology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology)
• Previous experience with molecular biology and cell biology techniques: cloning, strain engineering, mutagenesis, western blotting, etc.
• One or more first author publications
• Proven record of project leadership and ability to teach/instruct staff scientists on laboratory techniques.
• Strong oral and written communication skills
• Enthusiasm to work as part of a team

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior research experience with yeast (fungi) and/or microbial pathogens
• Experience performing next generation sequencing libraries for whole genome, whole transcriptome, or ChIP-seq experiments
• Curiosity and desire to learn new skills
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Interest in or aptitude for genomics and bioinformatics research

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