Post-Doctoral Associate

About the Job

The Laboratory for Mathematical, Computational, and Statistical Modeling develops and applies mathematical, statistical, and computational methods to address interdisciplinary research questions. The Post-Doctoral Associate will support current and future laboratory projects, including collaborations within The Hormel Institute and with external partners. Research will include biomedical applications and other applied problems aligned with the laboratory's research priorities.

Working with the faculty mentor, the Post-Doctoral Associate will develop mathematical and statistical models, machine learning methods, and artificial intelligence workflows; conduct data analyses; and communicate findings through scientific publications and presentations. The position will also contribute to funding proposals, student mentoring, and the Institute's bioinformatics team. The successful candidate will be expected to advance projects independently, demonstrate professionalism and research integrity, and contribute new research ideas aligned with the mission and vision of the Institute and laboratory. The employer retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position.

Focus of Job Responsibilities

Research and Method Development - 40%

• Develop, apply, and evaluate mathematical and statistical models, numerical methods, machine learning approaches, and artificial intelligence workflows for laboratory and collaborative projects.
• Analyze and interpret data, assess model performance, and document methods and results to support reproducibility.
• Advance assigned projects independently while coordinating research priorities with the faculty mentor and collaborators.
• Propose new research directions aligned with laboratory priorities and the Institute's mission and vision.

Scientific Publications and Funding Applications - 35%

• Prepare and revise scientific manuscripts for submission to peer-reviewed journals.
• Contribute to internal and external grant proposals, including research plans, preliminary analyses, and supporting materials.
• Identify and pursue eligible fellowship opportunities in consultation with the faculty mentor.
• Seek travel awards and other funding opportunities to support participation in conferences and scientific events.

Research Collaboration and Bioinformatics Support - 10%

• Collaborate with researchers within The Hormel Institute and at external institutions.
• Contribute mathematical, statistical, and computational expertise to collaborative research projects.
• Support the Institute's bioinformatics team through project-specific analyses, methodological input, and interpretation of results.
• Participate in project meetings and communicate progress, findings, and methodological limitations.

Student Mentoring and Research Training - 10%

• Mentor or assist in mentoring students involved in laboratory and collaborative projects.
• Guide students in research methods, data interpretation, scientific communication, and responsible research practices.
• Support students' preparation of research presentations and other scholarly outputs.

Scientific Participation and Professional Development - 5%

• Participate in internal and external conferences, seminars, and workshops relevant to the position.
• Present research findings and engage in scientific discussions with colleagues and collaborators.
• Pursue training that supports research responsibilities and professional growth.

Flexible Work Profile

The Research and Innovation Office (RIO) and The Hormel Institute endorses a "work with flexibility" approach that offers a welcoming and flexible work environment where everyone is inspired to do their best. Work location options include working fully remote, partially remote, or entirely in the office and are based on the work of the position. Some on-site work may be necessary for certain positions, even those designated as fully remote. Because we are a land-grant institution that serves the state, the University will continue to- in most cases- expect employees to live in Minnesota.

This position has been designated as eligible for Flexible Work Profile One.

Flexible Work Profile One, Office/Lab-Based - is expected to work primarily on-site in the office/lab. Only occasionally and inconsistently working remotely. Your office will be located at The Hormel Institute in Austin, Minnesota. The Hormel Institute management retains the right to modify flexible work arrangement agreements on a temporary or permanent basis for any reason at any time.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D., DDS, DVM, JD, MD or equivalent is required.
• Research experience in at least one of the following: mathematical or statistical modeling, data analysis, numerical methods, machine learning, artificial intelligence, bioinformatics or equivalent.
• Ability to communicate research methods and findings in writing and through oral presentations.

Preferred Qualifications

• A PhD or equivalent doctoral degree in mathematics, statistics, bioinformatics, computer science, artificial intelligence, data science, or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated research interest in artificial intelligence, applied mathematics, or machine learning, evidenced through prior projects, training, publications, or a research statement.
• Ability to conduct research independently and work collaboratively with an interdisciplinary team.
• Programming experience in one or more languages relevant to scientific research, such as Python, R, MATLAB or Julia.
• Experience preparing scientific manuscripts, grant proposals, or fellowship applications.
• Experience collaborating across disciplines or mentoring students.
• Commitment to professionalism, ethical research practices, and research integrity.

Physical & Environmental Requirements

• Must be able to work in a computational setting involving sustained computer use for research, data analysis, writing, and communication.
• May engage in occasional laboratory or experimental tasks depending on project scope, candidate background, and specific training.
• Adhere to all applicable safety protocols, training standards, and institutional regulatory guidelines during experimental work.
• Occasional travel may be required to attend industry conferences, academic workshops, and collaborative events.

About the Department

Founded in 1942 by Jay C. Hormel and The Hormel Foundation, The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, makes scientific advancements that enhance wellbeing and extend human life. For more than 80 years, we have pursued our mission to conduct research and provide education in the biological sciences with applications in medicine and agriculture. A part of the University of Minnesotas Research and Innovation Office, The Hormel Institute partners with the regions leading biomedical research facilities, including Mayo Clinic.

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $63,480-$77,076; 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

How To Apply

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 jobcentr@umn.edu.

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 nations 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.