Post-Doctoral Associate in Human-Plant Systems

Post-Doctoral Associate in Human-Plant Systems

Dates: 7/1/26 - 6/30/28

Modality: Hybrid work arrangement

Description: We are seeking a Post-doctoral Associate to lead a multi-phase investigation into the socio-cultural implications of Engineered Genetic Incompatibility (EGI) within the U.S. grass bioeconomy. This role bridges the gap between biotechnological advancement and the public sphere, focusing on how stakeholder alignment and public trust determine the "social license" for genetically modified varieties. By conducting systematic literature reviews, in-depth stakeholder interviews, and large-scale international surveys, you will directly influence how biocontainment strategies are developed and communicated to ensure both ecological and national security.

Primary Duties

(50%) - Interviews & Systematic Review Research

• Engage in the design, implementation, data curation, coding, and analysis of semi-structured interviews as related to EGI in grass systems as well as conducting a systematic review of the literature on the same topic

(25%) - Survey Research

• Engage in the design, implementation, data curation, and analysis of an international survey as related to EGI in grass systems.

(15%) - Science Communication

• Drafting high-impact manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals; presenting findings at national/international conferences; creating plain language summaries for groups of stakeholders across diverse platforms (e.g. social media, blog posts, websites).

(10%) - Project Coordination

• Coordinating meetings with the PI and partners; assisting with project progress reports, and outreach to stakeholders.

Required:

• PhD in Natural Resources, Environmental Psychology, Environmental Sociology, Environmental Studies, Science and Technology Studies (STS), or a closely related field with a focus on research related to human dimensions of natural resources.
• Demonstrated experience in conducting scoping or systematic literature reviews.
• Demonstrated experience in conducting, coding and analysis of semi-structured interviews.
• Strong oral and written communication skills to effectively communicate research findings to both academic and non-academic audiences.

Preferred:

• Prior research experience or coursework related to biotechnology, plant genetics, or agricultural systems.
• Experience in designing, implementing, and statistical analysis of survey and survey data alongside required statistics software suites (e.g., R, Stata).
• Experience working on interdisciplinary teams that bridge the life sciences and social sciences.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multi-phase research projects and meet deadlines for grant deliverables.
• A strong record of peer-reviewed publications commensurate with career stage.
  

The Human-Plant Systems (HPS) lab focuses on people-plant interactions integrating biophysical data with social cognitive-behavioral insights and technology, to optimize multifunctional ecosystem services, enhance human well-being, and provide actionable evidence for practitioners and educators to support diverse and resilient human-plant systems.

HPS is part of Department of Horticultural Science in the College of Food, Agricultural, and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS) at the University of Minnesota.

Pay Range: $62,232 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

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.

For more information about this position, please contact Michael Barnes, Research Assistant Professor of Horticultural Science (mrbarnes@umn.edu)

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

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

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.

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 the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).