Required qualifications: Ph.D. or M.D.
Knowledge and experience in one or more of the following research areas: dementia, aging, chronic disease, multi-causative disease pathways, rural health, Indigenous health. Sensitivity to and desire to promote diversity.
Preferred qualifications: Experience with community-based participatory research approaches. Experience and demonstrated interest in working with interdisciplinary research teams. Experience with, or interest in, population health, community-based research, small population research and/or small sample analyses. Track record of success in NIH grant awards or equivalent.
The Memory Keepers Medical Discovery Team-Health Equity (MK-MDT) at the University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth, invites applications for an academic-track assistant or associate professor. The faculty member’s primary responsibility will be to conduct collaborative research in a team science environment concerning aging and cognitive health in rural and Indigenous populations.
We seek a dynamic scholar with demonstrated potential for innovation and leadership and a strong track record of grant funding and publications. We will consider applicants from varied disciplinary backgrounds (e.g., health sciences, Indigenous studies, social sciences, psychology, neurology, medicine, and neuropsychology). We are especially interested in candidates with a background in research program leadership and a strong proven track record in community engagement and community-based participatory research. Willingness to join or expand current research into Minnesota, or join ongoing projects, is expected.
Salary is commensurate with experience. The successful candidate will be appointed as faculty to the MK-MDT, with their academic home in the Department of Family Medicine and Biobehavioral Health or Biomedical Sciences, as appropriate, at the University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth campus.
The vast majority of the successful candidate’s time will be focused on research activities; however, academic service and contributions to teaching are expected.
Duties and responsibilities of the position include conducting research on brain health and/or healthy aging in Indigenous and rural populations, aligned with the mission and vision of the MK-MDT and the University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth campus. Seek extramural funding from NIH and other agencies to support research activities. Participate in collaborative interdisciplinary team science with MK-MDT faculty, including active contributions to community engagement, workshops, and funding applications.
Assume the role of Director of Community Engagement for the MK-MDT, overseeing the planning and execution of community outreach and engagement with rural and Indigenous communities with a focus on Minnesota. The Director of Community Engagement will supervise community engagement staff, including community-based researchers.
Contribute to teaching and service at the University of Minnesota Medical School on the Duluth campus and its mission in rural and Indigenous health. Mentor students, post-doctoral fellows and research staff. Be active in the production of peer-reviewed publications, community reports, presentations at professional conferences and engagement with community groups.
Memory Keepers MDT conducts research on dementia and its associated risks, resiliencies, and comorbidities in collaboration with Indigenous and rural communities. MK-MDT faculty investigators work in an interdisciplinary research environment. The new faculty member would be joining a growing team of researchers with established community partnerships and a deeply embedded community-based infrastructure to support our research. Our modern facilities have been thoughtfully constructed to foster team science approaches to research and well-being.
The mission of the University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth campus is to be a national leader in improving healthcare access and outcomes in rural Minnesota and American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) communities.
We do this by:
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Educating medical students dedicated to serving rural Minnesota and American Indian/Alaska Native communities
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Fostering excellence in research
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Emphasizing the training of physicians in Family Medicine
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Creating strong partnerships locally, regionally, nationally and internationally
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Working in innovative, interdisciplinary and inter-professional teams
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.
This position will remain open until filled.
To request an accommodation during the application process, please email [email protected] 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.
University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD)
The University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD) consistently ranks among the top Midwestern, regional universities in U.S. News and World Report's "America's Best Colleges" issue.
Overlooking Lake Superior, UMD provides an alternative to both large research and small liberal arts environments and attracts students looking for a personalized learning experience on a medium-sized campus of a major university. A firm liberal arts foundation anchors a variety of traditional degree programs, as well as professional and graduate students that draw on UMD's many research institutes and labs.
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), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.
