University of Minnesota, School of Mathematics
(posted 2025/09/18, listed until 2026/03/18)
Position Description
About the Position:
The UMN NSF Focused Research Group (FRG) Postdoctoral Associate is a three-year appointment in the School of Mathematics at the University of Minnesota that will begin in the Fall semester 2026. The project aims to deepen connections between commutative algebra, algebraic geometry, and symplectic geometry through concrete use of homological mirror symmetry. We seek candidates with research expertise in algebraic geometry, commutative algebra, symplectic geometry, or closely related areas.
NSF FRG Postdoctoral Associates will be mentored by the project PIs Christine Berkesch and David Favero. Postdocs are expected to engage in FRG activities, including the FRG virtual seminar. A novel aspect of the position is that this NSF FRG Postdoctoral Associate will have the opportunity to select a secondary mentor from among the other project PIs: Matthew Ballard, Michael Brown, Daniel Erman, Andrew Hanlon, or Sheel Ganatra. Applicants are encouraged to address, in their cover letter, who they would select as a secondary mentor as well as address their fit to the FRG project aims. We also seek candidates with demonstrated excellence in teaching, commensurate with career stage. The position has a teaching load of two one-semester courses per academic year for two years and three one-semester courses per academic year for one year. Applicants should have received or expect to receive a Ph.D. in mathematics or its equivalent no later than August 31, 2026. Applicants must be US citizens or permanent residents, per NSF requirements.
About the Department:
The School of Mathematics, located in the heart of the University of Minnesota's College of Science and Engineering, features over sixty faculty and more than 120 graduate students engaged in world-class research across all areas of mathematics. Its core educational mission is to provide students with the analytical skills to thrive in the modern workplace, while fostering an inclusive and inspiring environment where everyone can achieve their full potential.
The School is supported by numerous centers which extend the research and outreach missions of the department, including the Institute for Mathematics and its Applications, the Minnesota Center for Financial and Actuarial Mathematics, the Minnesota Center for Industrial and Applied Mathematics, and the School of Mathematics Center for Educational Programs which houses UMTYMP - our program for mathematically talented Minnesota youth.
How To Apply:
Applications and all supporting materials must be submitted electronically through MathJobs. Applicants must include the following: a cover letter that addresses the research fit with the FRG project aims, curriculum vitae, a research statement, a teaching statement, and four letters of recommendation, at least one of which addresses teaching ability. Applicants may also provide an optional statement to describe their contributions in other aspects of their candidacy, such as service, outreach, and inclusion efforts. Reference letter writers should be asked to submit their letters online through mathjobs.org. Applications received by Friday, December 1, 2025, will receive full consideration, and we will continue reviewing applications for as long as positions are available.
Pay & Benefits: $65,000 annually 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
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 the U of M:
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.
Application Materials Required:
- Submit the following items online at this website to complete your application:
- Cover letter
- Curriculum Vitae
- Research statement
- Teaching statement
- Publication list
- Optional Service Statement (optional)
- Four reference letters (to be submitted online by the reference writers on this site )
- And anything else requested in the position description.
Further Info: