Post-Doctoral Associate: Khoruts Lab, GI Division

About the Job

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Microbiota Transplantation

Position Description: We are seeking a highly motivated post-doctoral research associate to join our Microbiota Therapeutics Program, a multidisciplinary team that is focused on development of fecal microbiota-based drugs. The Program consists of basic scientists, a manufacturing group, and clinical research arm. The products manufactured by our Program are undergoing clinical trials for various clinical indications, including inflammatory bowel diseases, optimization of checkpoint cancer immunotherapy, complications of liver disease, autism, C. difficile infections, and others. This provides a unique model for real-world drug development and creates a direct linkage of science to the bedside.

The post-doc would be joining our basic research group to develop a new direction of investigation. Possible projects include microbiome-mitochondrial axis connection or calibration of allergic immune responses by the gut microbiome. Mechanistic insights gained from this research would be applied to next-generation development of microbiota-based drug products.

The ideal candidate will be a detail-oriented critical thinker able to organize several projects occurring simultaneously and facilitate completion of studies in an ethical, rigorous, and timely manner. Independent work is expected, but the researcher will also work closely with and receive guidance and support from faculty mentors.

The position is in the laboratory of Dr. Alexander Khoruts, MD in the Department of Medicine at the University of Minnesota. Funding is available for up to two years, contingent on satisfactory performance. The proposed start date is the last quarter of 2026.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct fundamental research in molecular microbial ecology, microbial transplantation technology, including in human-microbe interactions
• Employ state-of-the-art genomic, metagenomic, and computational tools to examine microbe-host interactions
• The project may involve work with mouse models.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret scientific data
• Communicate results to scientific audiences through peer-reviewed publications and poster/oral presentations at scientific conferences
• Contribute to the training and mentoring of graduate students
• Exploit opportunities for professional skill development and career enhancement

Requirements

Required Minimum Qualifications (required):

• PhD in Microbiology, Microbial Ecology, or a closely related field with a strong emphasis on microbiology
• Authorship on peer-reviewed scientific publications
• Experience with basic molecular biology techniques, e.g., PCR
• Experience with computational tools for microbiome analysis, including R, python, mothur, QIIME, MaAsLin, etc.
• Experience in working with animal models
• Ability to design and conduct experiments and analyze, interpret, and synthesize results as demonstrated through peer-reviewed publication
• Excellent written and oral communication and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate in a research team and convey technical information

Duties and responsibilities:

1. Experimental work and data analysis (70%)

2. Scientific writing, figure preparation (20%)

3. Collaborative work and teaching within the research team (10%)

Application: Interested candidates should submit i) a cover letter describing the candidate's interest in and qualifications for the position, ii) current curriculum vitae, and ii) the names and contact information of at least three professional references.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Applications must be submitted to: Dr. Alex Khoruts, khoru001@umn.edu

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: Pay will align with the NIH Postdoctoral range, with starting wages beginning at $63,480 up to $80,000 annually; 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 have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume or CV.

Application: Interested candidates should submit i) a cover letter describing the candidate's interest in and qualifications for the position, ii) current curriculum vitae, and ii) the names and contact information of at least three professional references.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Applications must be submitted to: Dr. Alex Khoruts, khoru001@umn.edu

This position will remain open until filled.

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.