Assistant Professor - Synthetic Biology, Tenure-Track

Company: University of Minnesota
Location: Minneapolis
Posted on: September 19, 2023

Job Description:

Apply for JobJob ID357330
LocationTwin Cities
Job FamilyAcademic
Full/Part TimeFull-Time
Regular/TemporaryRegular
Job Code9403
Employee ClassInstr Fac/TC and Coord Cmp
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About the Job


The (BMBB) and the (BTI) in the College of Biological Sciences at the University of Minnesota is inviting applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in Synthetic Biology.About the Position:
The ideal candidate will develop a strong, extramurally funded and collaborative research program that establishes new research areas with a synthetic biology emphasis that complement current faculty research in synthetic biology and biotechnology within the BMBB department and the BTI. We seek to hire a candidate whose research aligns with one or more of the following topic areas:

• Application of AI/machine learning to biological systems and genetic design, particularly in integrating 'omics-level datasets and high-throughput experimental systems,
• Synthetic biology of microbial (especially of non-model organisms) and plant systems,
• Cell-free systems, including applications in human or animal therapeutics or biomanufacturing,
• Genetically programmable materials, with a focus on platform systems whose physicochemical properties can be modified using synthetic biology,
• Sustainable biomanufacturing using synthetic biology approaches.The candidate will be selected, in part, based on how well their research program interfaces and complements current faculty research. BMBB is home not only to faculty in synthetic biology and biotechnology, but also molecular, metabolic, chemical, structural and systems biology. BTI includes faculty from life sciences and engineering research units across the university and has provided a natural focal point for basic scientists to grow their research in more applied directions. The candidates research program should augment current BMBB and BTI faculty research and provide opportunities for new collaborative and interdisciplinary research with faculty from different departments and programs at the U of M.The successful candidate is expected to pursue a scholarly, innovative, and collaborative teaching program, advise undergraduate, graduate and postdoctoral students, and participate in professional service. This position provides opportunity for collaboration across multiple disciplines in the life, physical and engineering disciplines, and access to students in multiple graduate programs. BMBB and BTI are centered in the Twin-Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul that is a hub for biotech and biopharmaceutical companies and have close connections to industry. The University of Minnesota has been recognized for its excellence in technology commercialization and entrepreneurship of its faculty, and the successful candidate can become part of this ecosystem. The candidate will be hired into the BMBB department as their academic tenure home and into the BTI.The BMBB department and BTI are committed to increasing the diversity and inclusiveness of our faculty and are welcoming applications from candidates that will contribute to these goals.
  
  Qualifications
  
  
  Required Qualifications
  • Ph.D. in biochemistry, molecular biology, biological engineering, synthetic biology, microbiology, biophysics, chemical engineering, computational biology or a related discipline, and appropriate post-doctoral experience
  • Strong publication record in disciplines related to the position
  • Potential to initiate and sustain a strong externally funded research program in synthetic biology with a focus on microbial systems
  • Ability to communicate effectively with multiple audiences
  • Track record of interacting creatively, collaboratively, and productively with other scientists
  • Track record of promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion for historically underrepresented groups and marginalized communities in the areas of research, teaching, and service. Evidence of commitment to teaching and student learning
    About the Department
    
    
    About the : The Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics is committed to understanding the molecular mechanisms of metabolic diseases and cancer; developing novel strategies in biocatalysis and biotechnology; and advancing knowledge through structural biology and molecular biophysics.About the : Since its inception in 1984, BTI has supported world-class biotechnology research. Through the Biotechnology Training Program and the Graduate Program in Microbial Engineering and cutting-edge microbial production and downstream processing services, we continue to support research within the University and serve as a vital link to industry partners.
    Benefits
    
    
    Working at the UniversityAt the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.The University also 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
    • 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 - employer contribution of 10% with employee required contribution of 5.5%
    • Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
    • Financial counseling services
    • Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no costPlease visit the for more information regarding benefits.
      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.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. Candidates need to submit the following materials:
      Letter of application (Upload as "Application Letter") A full curriculum vitae (Upload as "Curriculum Vitae") 2-page research overview (Upload as "Research Overview") 1-page teaching statement (Upload as "Teaching Statement") Diversity statement (Upload as "Diversity Statement") Three letters of recommendations that consider both research and teaching potential directly sent from the referees to the Faculty Search Committee at BTIsearch@umn.eduApplicants should also send a single PDF file to that includes a cover letter, a full CV, a 2-page research overview, 1-page teaching statement and a diversity statement.Applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis until the position is filled. It is anticipated that successful candidates will be on campus for the beginning of the 2024-2025 academic year.For additional information, contact the Faculty Search Committee at: BTIsearch@umn.eduTo request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-UOHR (8647).
      Diversity
      
      
      The BMBB diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) committee fosters, and works to actively strengthen a culture that emphasizes mutual respect, inclusiveness, safety, and support. By promoting efforts to build an inclusive community in which all voices are heard, we aim to lead and collaborate on initiatives that will continuously enhance and improve our capabilities to educate and to advance science. To learn more about our work in this area, please visit: 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:
      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 the U of M
      
      
      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.
      

Keywords: University of Minnesota, Minneapolis , Assistant Professor - Synthetic Biology, Tenure-Track, Other , Minneapolis, Minnesota